Indian apparel is known worldwide for its fine craftsmanship and tradition. Textiles such as cotton, silk, and denim with unique designs are highly sought after in international markets. India is now the second largest exporter of apparel and textiles in the world, with a large and growing manufacturing sector1. Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) was established for the smooth functioning and growth of this industry in India.

What is the purpose of Apparel Export Council for Promotion?

The Apparel Export Promotion Council acts as a bridge between the government, Indian apparel exporters, and international buyers. In addition to solving trade-related issues and establishing schemes, the export promotion council organizes trade fairs to promote the industry in India. In order to improve the global positioning of the industry in a sustainable and holistic manner, the council seeks to empower the Indian apparel exporters.

In addition, the Apparel Export Promotion Council organizes the India International Garment Fair twice a year, where more than 300 exhibitors display their products and unique apparel. In January 2020, over 575 international buyers attended the fair from 65 countries.

Apparel Export Promotion Council’s objectives are as follows:

• To conduct market research and provide inputs on foreign trade policies, budgets, and regulations of apparel-importing countries. Additionally, it conducts export-related surveys in order to gather insightful data for marketing abroad.
• Assist AEPC members in understanding export license applications and compliance for easy exports from India.
• The Apparel Export Promotion Council aims to promote Indian apparel exporters and raise awareness about various types of garments manufactured in India.
• Providing support for innovation and evolution in high quality product manufacturing. Ensures that the quality of fabric exported meets international standards.
• To inform its members of action plans, promotion of exports, new targets for exports to a country, and the execution of the strategies.

Membership Documents Required by AEPC

The following documents are required to join AEPC:

• Fill out the application form at the official AEPC website (www.aepcindia.com)
• A self-attested copy of the DGFT’s IEC
• Non-judicial stamp paper notarized
• A self-attested copy of the partnership deed and the firm registration certificate
• Checks or demand drafts made payable to AEPC

Manufacturer-exporters must provide self-attested copies of industrial or factory licenses if they wish to register as manufacturer-exporters.

If an exporter manufactures readymade garments, a self-attested copy of the factory license issued by the state government, Employee State Insurance Certificates issued by the authorities concerned, Employee Provident Fund Registration Certificates issued by the concerned Provident Fund Commissioners, as well as a Certificate of Chartered Accountant, are required to be submitted.

The AEPC also allows online registration and renewal of membership subscriptions to reduce manual paperwork and application processing. As a result of the AEPC website, the following facilities are available:

1) RCMC filing online

2) RCMC application status tracking

3) Email RCMC notifications

4) Renewal of RCMC

5) A faster transaction processing process

6) Information is available 24/7 and accessible