Govt plans 'green card' for exporters.

BHUBANESWAR: Odisha is planning to introduce 'green card' for exporters from the state with good track records. This would help passage of their consignments at check gates on a priority basis.

The proposal is part of the draft export policy to boost overseas sale, which showed a declining trend in 2012-13 compared to 2011-12.

According to the draft policy, a copy of which is with TOI, smart (green) cards would be issued to export-oriented units (EOUs), special economic zone (SEZ) units and export/trading houses having annual export turnover of at least Rs 1 crore for three consecutive years.

The exporters should not have pending taxes beyond six months. The units should not be convicted under cases of tax evasion or fraud. They should be prompt in depositing provident fund and taxes by self-assessment.

The draft policy said the card would entitle the holders minimum inspection and speedy clearance of its various proposals by different departments of the government. Trucks, carrying cargoes of the card-holders, will go through minimum checking and not be detained. A special grievance cell would function to redress grievances of the card-holders, it said.

The card would be issued jointly by secretary, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and director, commercial taxes, and remain valid for three years after which it would require renewal. Unique computer generated code would be given to the card-holders.

The exports at Rs 11,448 crore in 2012-13 is a significant drop of over 29% compared to Rs 16,207 crore in 2011-12. The government aims at increasing exports to Rs 29,693 crore in 10 years, registering a growth rate of 10%, the draft said.

The government has given the draft, prepared by the MSME department, to Ipicol and Idco for their feedback. It would be placed before the cabinet for approval soon, a senior government officer said.

Based on possible export potential, the government has divided the products into six broad categories: agricultural and forest products, handloom, handicrafts, engineering and allied products, marine products and service (software, tourism, medical services, education and consultancy).

Source : timesofindia.indiatimes.com