Ecommerce export hubs (EECH) are set to revolutionize India’s trade landscape. These hubs will operate around Delhi airport and are scheduled to commence in February next year. This initiative is a significant step toward streamlining ecommerce exports from India and expanding its global trade footprint.
Who is Leading the Pilot?
The government has selected two firms, Shiprocket and Cargo Service Centre (CSC), to pilot the project. While Shiprocket, headquartered in Gurugram, will oversee logistics, CSC, based in Mumbai, will focus on air cargo handling. Together, these firms will set up ecommerce export hubs that will help provide insights into developing more such hubs across the country.
What Will These Hubs Offer?
The ecommerce export hubs will feature several key services aimed at making ecommerce exports smoother and faster:
- Expedited customs and security clearance: In-house facilities will ensure quicker processing, reducing delays in exports.
- Quality certification services: Agencies will operate within the hubs, ensuring that products meet the required standards before being shipped.
- Easy re-import policies: The hubs will also allow for the return of ecommerce consignments and rejects without import duties, offering flexibility to exporters.
These features, therefore, will not only expedite the process but also reduce operational challenges for businesses.
Why Are Ecommerce Export Hubs Important?
Ecommerce export hubs are essential for India’s growing ecommerce export sector. By providing centralized infrastructure, they will empower exporters from remote areas to ship a wide range of products. These include:
- Pharma products
- Textiles and apparel
- Jewellery
- Beauty and Ayush products
In addition, the hubs will provide a much-needed boost to small and medium-sized exporters by offering them access to better logistics and customs processing. As a result, businesses across the country will be able to tap into global markets with ease.
Potential Impact on India’s Ecommerce Exports
Currently, ecommerce exports contribute $5 billion to India’s economy. However, with these new hubs in place, experts believe this figure could grow to over $100 billion by 2030. To put this in perspective, China leads the global market with $250 billion in ecommerce exports annually. India’s ambition to follow in China’s footsteps could help the country become a formidable player in global ecommerce trade.
Future Plans for Ecommerce Export Hubs
As the pilot project progresses, the government will analyze the results and introduce detailed guidelines. These will address necessary policy and regulatory changes across departments. Ultimately, the aim is to scale up and establish a network of ecommerce export hubs nationwide.
Conclusion: A Game-Changer for India’s Trade
In conclusion, the ecommerce export hubs are poised to be a transformative force in India’s trade ecosystem. By improving infrastructure and reducing bottlenecks, the initiative will empower Indian exporters, boost the economy, and enhance the country’s global competitiveness. This move, outlined in the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, signals India’s commitment to becoming a leader in global ecommerce exports.
