In exercise of powers conferred under paragraph 204 of the Foreign Trade Policy

## Report on Amendment to Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020 **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a public notice issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Government of India, dated February 9, 2021. The notice pertains to an amendment of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2015-2020. Specifically, it modifies Appendix 2T and Appendix 2D related to the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC). The amendment revises the details of products under the ESC's jurisdiction and updates its address in the lists of Export Promotion Councils and agencies authorized to issue Certificates of Origin. These changes aim to reflect the updated scope and contact information for the ESC, affecting exporters in the electronics and computer software sectors. **2. Introduction:** The purpose of this report is to provide an informative analysis of the DGFT's public notice regarding amendments to the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2015-2020. The analysis is based solely on the provided text of the notice. **3. Policy Overview:** * This public notice constitutes an *amendment* to the existing Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020. * Core Objective(s): The core objective, as inferred from the text, is to update and maintain the accuracy of information pertaining to Export Promotion Councils and agencies responsible for issuing Certificates of Origin, specifically concerning the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC). This ensures exporters have access to current and correct information for trade facilitation. **4. Background and Rationale:** The amendment is likely driven by the need to reflect changes in the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council's (ESC) operational details. The specific change in address and the inclusion of more explicit product details suggests either a relocation of the ESC's head office or a refinement of its jurisdiction over specific electronic and software products. Without this amendment, exporters might rely on outdated information, leading to potential delays, compliance issues, or misdirection of inquiries. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This public notice introduces the following key changes to the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020: * **Appendix 2T (List of Export Promotion Councils):** * **Specific Change:** The details of products falling under the jurisdiction of the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council have been updated, and the address of the ESC has been changed. * **New Rule/Provision:** The notice inserts updated details of electronics and computer software products under the ESC's purview. * **Effect of Change:** This change clarifies the range of products for which the ESC can issue Registration-cum-Membership Certificates (RCMC). The amendment reflects the council's change of address from "ESC House" (155, Okhla Industrial Estate) to "PHD House, 3rd Floor, Ramakrishna Dalmia Wing Phase III, Opp. Asian Games Village Okhla". * **Appendix 2D (List of Agencies Authorised to Issue Certificates of Origin):** * **Specific Change:** The address of the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council, as an authorized agency for issuing Certificates of Origin, has been updated. * **New Rule/Provision:** The ESC is now listed with its new address at PHD House. * **Effect of Change:** Ensures that businesses seeking Certificates of Origin for exports to SAPTA and ASIA Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) countries can accurately contact the ESC at its current location. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary target audience and stakeholders for this amendment are: * Electronics and computer software exporters who are members of, or seek membership with, the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC). * Exporters requiring Registration-cum-Membership Certificates (RCMC) from the ESC. * Businesses exporting to SAPTA and APTA countries and needing Certificates of Origin issued by the ESC. * The Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) itself. * Customs authorities and other regulatory bodies involved in trade facilitation. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency:** The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is the responsible agency for implementing and enforcing this amendment. The Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) is responsible for updating its records and communicating the changes to its members. * **Procedures:** Exporters should update their records with the ESC's new address and ensure that all applications for RCMC and Certificates of Origin are submitted accordingly. The ESC will need to update its internal processes to reflect the changes in product jurisdiction and address. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcomes of these specific changes are: * Improved accuracy and efficiency in the issuance of RCMC and Certificates of Origin by the ESC. * Reduced confusion and delays for exporters due to outdated contact information. * Enhanced trade facilitation for the electronics and computer software sectors. * Increased awareness among exporters regarding the specific product categories covered by the ESC. **9. Conclusion:** The amendment to the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020, as detailed in the DGFT public notice, updates the contact information and product jurisdiction of the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC). These changes are crucial for ensuring that exporters in the electronics and software sectors have accurate and up-to-date information, thereby facilitating smoother trade operations and compliance with export regulations. The amendment underscores the government's commitment to supporting the export sector by maintaining relevant and accurate trade-related information.

Key Entities Referenced