In today’s competitive global market, exporters play a vital role in driving India’s economic growth. However, navigating international trade comes with its own set of financial challenges—ranging from upfront production costs and logistics to compliance expenses and fluctuating foreign exchange rates. To reduce this burden and promote export growth, the Government of India offers a wide range of financial assistance programs. These schemes are designed to provide support through subsidies, incentives, and low-interest credit facilities, especially for MSMEs and emerging exporters.
To benefit from these programs, understanding the eligibility criteria is essential. Government support is structured to ensure transparency, fairness, and targeted assistance—so exporters must meet specific conditions and documentation standards.
Key Government Financial Support Programs for Exporters
1. Interest Equalization Scheme (IES)
This scheme offers interest subvention (a reduction in interest rate) on pre- and post-shipment credit. It is primarily aimed at MSMEs and labor-intensive sectors. The current subvention is around 3–5%, which significantly reduces the cost of working capital for exporters.
Eligibility:
Must have a valid IEC (Import Export Code)
Should belong to notified sectors or be a registered MSME
Must have an account with an authorized bank that disburses export credit
2. Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme
The EPCG scheme allows exporters to import capital goods at zero customs duty, provided they meet certain export performance obligations over a period.
Eligibility:
Available to manufacturer exporters, merchant exporters tied to manufacturers, and service providers
Must commit to fulfilling specified export obligations based on duty saved
3. Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP)
RoDTEP replaces MEIS and reimburses exporters for duties and taxes that are not otherwise refunded. It ensures that exported goods are not burdened with domestic taxes, improving competitiveness.
Eligibility:
Valid IEC holder
Must have export transactions post-January 2021
Registration with ICEGATE is required for benefit claims
4. Market Access Initiative (MAI) and Marketing Development Assistance (MDA)
These schemes provide financial support to exporters for activities like international trade fairs, exhibitions, and market studies.
Eligibility:
Recognized exporting organizations, industry bodies, and registered exporters
Must fall within the guidelines set by the Department of Commerce and DGFT
Common Eligibility Requirements Across Schemes
While each scheme has its specific requirements, most support programs require the following:
Valid IEC (Import Export Code)
RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) from an Export Promotion Council
Active business operations and export history
Compliant export documentation (Shipping Bill, GST filings, etc.)
Adherence to export performance or minimum turnover criteria (in some cases)
Agile Regulatory – Your Trusted Partner in Export Assistance
Understanding and availing export benefits isn’t always straightforward. From meeting eligibility requirements to filing accurate applications, the process can be time-consuming and complex. That’s where Agile Regulatory steps in. We assist exporters in identifying the right schemes for their business and ensure end-to-end compliance—from obtaining IEC, RCMC, AD code, and GST alignment to preparing documentation for RoDTEP, EPCG, and IES claims. With our expert support, you don’t miss out on what you're entitled to.
Conclusion
Government financial assistance programs offer significant support for exporters—but to truly benefit, businesses must understand their eligibility and meet compliance requirements. Whether you're a new exporter or looking to scale, these programs can provide much-needed liquidity and cost savings. With reliable guidance from experts like Agile Regulatory, navigating this landscape becomes easier—helping you stay focused on expanding your global reach.