· web viewall members of the c.o.a. all regional carpet mfrs. associations, subject:- non-tariff...

All Members of the C.O.A. All Regional Carpet Mfrs. Associations,

Subject:- Non-Tariff Barriers (NTB’s) on Indian Exports

Dear Sir(s)

As you are aware, there has been a significant growth in the incidence of non-tariff barriers (NTB’s) in world trade even as tariff barriers have reduced. The competitiveness of goods and services exported from developing countries has been adversely affected since the developed countries have increasingly resorted to non-tariff measures to protect their domestic industry. Furthermore the financial cost of compliance to onerously high standards set by some developed countries is difficult to meet by developing countries restricting their access to these markets. Thus there is an impending danger of serious imbalances emerging in world trade for which remedial action may have to be taken urgently.

It is notable that the application of full NTB’s is through a wide spectrum of measures which are often WTO compatible. However, given the flexibilities and “grey areas” in many WTO agreements, these are prone to frequent misuse by member countries. In addition there are certain NTB’s that are not WTO compatible but are still imposed by countries unilaterally.

Despite the difficulties mentioned above, several Countries regularly bring out reports on NTB’s imposed on their exports by destination countries. This provides a useful data-base for the exporters to take advance action against these measures and for the Government to evolve appropriate policy interventions/frame suitable strategies for negotiations at the multilateral, regional and bilateral levels.

In order to facilitate collection of information in a uniform and codified manner, we are forwarding herewith a proforma as devised by the Ministry of Commerce with the request to please furnish the required information in the prescribed proforma at the earliest to enable us to compile & forward the same to the Government.

Subject:- India-Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) – request list of SACU for tariff concessions.

Number of 8-digit lines

HS Code of India8 digit

Description 2008-09 Applied Rates in India

IndianBoundRate %

Comments

526 57011000 Carpets & othertextile floor coverings ofwool or fineanimal hair,knotted.

10 Shouldnot be more than 10% onFOB value.

1) Export consignment of carpets and Floor coverings should be cleared by the Customs within seven days

2) Exhibition Goodssuch as Carpets &other Floor coveringsshould be cleared by the Customs within three days.

527 57024210 Carpets, Carpeting and rugs

10% or Rs.80 persqmwhichever is higher

Should not be more than 10% onFOB value

- Do -

528 57024220 Mats and mattings.

10% orRs.80 persqmwhicheveris higher

Should not be more than 10% on FOB value.

- Do -

529 57024290 Other 10% or Should not - Do -

Rs.80 persqmwhicheveris higher.

be more than 10% on FOB value.

530 57050090 Other 10 Should not be more than 10% onFOB value.

- Do -

Subject:- India Brunei Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/04/2012-IT dated: 30 th March 2012 on the above subject.

In this connection we would like to inform you that the exports of Indian Handmade Carpets and other floor coverings in Brunei is negligible as per figures given below :

( US$ Million ) Products 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11Handmade Carpets & other Floor coverings

0.06 0.13 0.08

Since our exports of Indian Carpets & other Floor coverings in Brunei is negligible as such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

Subject:- India-Canada CEPA.

Please refer to the above letter No.12014/01/2011-IT dated: 23-3-2012 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that the items mentioned in list are not covered under the purview of this Council. Therefore, the comments invited from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

Subject:- Identification of items for making mandatory/Technical Regulations and Strategy to deal with Non-tariff Measure-reg. Please refer to your letter No.43(11)/EC/2010/7 dated: 9-3-2012 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that the items mentioned in list are not covered under the purview of this Council. Therefore, the comments invited from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

Subject:- Holding of the 3rd Meeting of India-Brazil Monitoring Mechanism (TMM) in New Delhi.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/2/2009-IT dated: 9 th March 2012 on the above subject. We are giving below following issues with the request to kindly include these issues in the agenda of the above meeting :

1. Reduction of duty on Handmade Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other floor coverings in LAC region specially in Brazil, is 71%.including local taxes.

2. Simplify the import regulations for speedy clearance of Exhibition Goods specially Carpets & Floor coverings in Brazil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2012/ Dated: 1-3-2012

Subject:- Visit of CITM to Indonesia and Vietnam.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/08/2010-IT dated: 15 th February 2012 on the above subject. This Council have no issue on the subject. Therefore, information asked from the Council in this regard may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2012/ Dated: 1-3-2012 Subject:- Joint Trade Committee meeting between India and Zimbabwe.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/06/2011-IT dated: 15 th February 2012 on the above subject. At present this Council have no issue on the subject. Therefore, information asked from the Council in this regard may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2011/ Dated: 1-3-2012

Subject:- India-Australia FTA negotiations. . Please refer to your letter No.12014/31/2012-IT dated: 10 th February 2012 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that import of 570110 be kept in the Negative List of India i.e. importation of these items from Australia be restricted. The items at HSG 510119, 510310, 510320 be removed from restricted list of items. Director

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2012/ Dated: 18-1-2012

Sub:- India Trade Show being organized by ITPO at Mexico from February 28th to March, 2nd 2012. Please refer to your letter No.7/10/2010-FT(NAFTA) dated: 5 th January, 2012 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that Sub-Committee on Code Activity of this Council in it’s meeting held on 30-12-2011 did not approve Council’s participation in the above fair. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2011/ Dated: 22-12-2011 Subject:- Agreed minutes of 17th Session of India-Finland JEC Held on 24th November 2011 at New Delhi.-Follow up Action. Please refer to your letter No.12014/21/2006-IT dated: 14 th December 2011 on the above subject. In the relevant extract of Agreed Minutes of 17 th Session of India-Finland JEC there is no specific mention about the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- MoU between India and Republic of Uzbekistan in Textile Sector.

Please refer to your lOM No..12014/06/2007-IT dated: 20 th December 2011 on the above subject. In the Memorandum of Understanding made with the Republic of Uzbekistan there is no specific mention about the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. As such the details of action taken for implementation of the said MOU as asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- Agreed minutes of 17th Session of India-Finland JEC Held on 24th November 2011 at New Delhi.-Follow up Action.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/21/2006-IT dated: 14 th December 2011 on the above subject. In the relevant extract of Agreed Minutes of 17 th Session of India-Finland JEC there is no specific mention about the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref./2011/ Dated: 8-12-2011

Subject:- India New Zealand FTA/CECA Negotiations.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/32/2007-IT dated: 20-10-2011 inviting comments from the Council for tariff elimination on export of Hand knotted Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in New Zealand. In this connection we would like to inform you that New Zealand is a potential market for Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. India’s exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in New Zealand is given below :

Item 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11Rs. Crore US$ Rs. Crore US$ Rs.Crore US$ Million Million Million

Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs Druggetsand other Floor coverings

996.74 2.20 1171.65 2.47 1624.74 63.57

In order to increase India’s exports of the above items in New Zealand tariff elimination for Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in New Zealand under CECA Negotiation is very much essential. We would, therefore, request you to please recommend tariff elimination on the above items in New Zealand at the earliest. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt. Ref/2011/ Dated: 7-12-2011

Subject:- Follow up action on the Protocol of the 17th session of India- Russia Working Group on Trade & Economic Cooperation (IRWGTEC).

Please refer to your letter No.M.11013/3(1)/2010-MSS(IM)/3235 dated: 28-11-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that ITC HS Code 61, 62 & 63 mentioned in the list not concerning the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. Therefore, comments asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- India-Australia CECA.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/31/2007-IT dated: 18 th November, 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present we do not have any issue in respect of exports Handmade Woollen Carpets and other Floor coverings in Australia for the 2nd round of negotiation.


Subject:- Initiative by developed countries to bring in a resolution in the G-20 for a standstill on import tariff.. Please refer to your letter No.12019/02/2011-IT dated: 8-10- 2011 on the above subject. The copy of letter dated: 8-10-2011 sent with your above letter does not specify the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpet, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2011/ Dated: 28-11-2011

Subject:- India’s bilateral request list of tariff lines for seeking Deeper concessions under India-Indonesia CECA..

Please refer to your letter No.12014/8/2010-IT dated: 3rd November, 2011 on the above subject. In the list sent with your above letter does not include the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpet, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2011/ Dated: 26-9-2011 Subject:- 7th Session of the India-Slovak Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation. Please refer to your letter No.12014/21/2006-IT dated: 21 st September, 2011 on the above subject. The copy of Protocol sent with your above letter does not

specify the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpet, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2011/ Dated: 28-11-2011

Subject:- Follow up action on the Protocol of the 17th Session of India – Russia Working Group on Trade & Economic. Cooperation (IRWGTEC) Please refer to your letter No.12014/35/2006-IT dated: 15 th

November, 2011 on the above subject. The copy of Protocol sent with your above letter does not specify the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt./Ref/2011/ Dated: 7-10-2011

Subject:- 9 th Round of EFTA FTA Negotiations . Please refer to your email dated: 7 th October 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that we vide our email dated: 22-9-2011 already requested for removal of all the items from the Negative List as mentioned under HS Code Nos.5702, 5703, 5704, 5705. We are sending a copy of our above mail for your information and kind consideration.


Subject:- Meeting of the Standing Council for Market Access Agreement (SCMAA). Please refer to your letter No.12015/3/2008-IT dated: 5 th October, 2011 on the above subject. We have already replied on the Agenda points as mentioned in your above letter as per details given below :

(i) Exports of Indian Handmade Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other floor coverings in Israel is not encouraging as such there is no strategy from this Council.

(ii) As already informed vide our letter dated: 20-9-2011 that the items mentioned in the list does not mention the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Carpets, rugs, druggets and other floor coverings (copy enclosed).

(iii) Already requested vide our letter dated:22-9-2011 to remove all Hanmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings as mentioned under HS Code Nos.5702, 5703, 5704 & 5705.(copy enclosed)

(iv) Issue not concerning this Council as exports of Indian carpets in Indonesia is negligible.

(v) Handmade Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings not mentioned in the Protocol as already informed vide our email dated: 26-9-2011 (copy enclosed)

(vi) Products not mentioned in the Protocol as already informed vide our email dated: 26-9-2011.(copy enclosed)

(vii) This Council do not have any proposal/project as replied vide our email dated: 8-2011.(copy enclosed).

(viii) Not concerning this Council.

(ix) Reduction of duty on Handmade Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other floor

coverings in LAC region specially in Brazil, is 71%.including local taxes. (x) Simplify the import regulations for clearance of Exhibition Goods specially

Carpets & Floor coverings in LAC Region.


Subject:- 7th Session of the India-Slovak Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation. Please refer to your letter No.12014/21/2006-IT dated: 21 st September, 2011 on the above subject. The copy of Protocol sent with your above letter does not specify the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.


Sub:- 9th Session of the Indo-Czech Joint Commission on on Economic Cooperation scheduled to be held during November/December 2011. Please refer to your letter No.12014/14/2011-IT dated: 22-9-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform that the copy of relevant paragraph of Protocol sent with your above letter does not specify the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.


Sub:- Deletion of textiles lines from the Sensitive List of South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) LDCs.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/7/04-IT dated: 22-9-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform that the items mentioned in the List not covered under the purview of this Council. As such the comments invited from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- 9 th Round of EFTA FTA Negotiations .

Please refer to your letter No.12014/14/2010-IT dated: 7 th September, 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that India’s exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Switzerland & Norway are encouraging. We would, therefore, request you to please remove all these items as mentioned under HS Code Nos.5702, 5703, 5704, 5705 from India’s Negative List .

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2011/ Dated: 22-9-2011 Subject:- 17th Session of India – Russia Working Group on Trade & Economic Cooperation (IRWGTEC).

Sir,

Please refer to your letter No.12014/35/2006-IT dated: 12 th

September 2011 on the above subject. Following suggestions may please be included in the discussion during the 17th Session of India – Russia Working Group on Trade & Economic Cooperation :

1. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings may please be included in the discussion during the 17 th Session of India-Russia Working Group. List of Items covered under the purview of this Council and their ITC HS Code is enclosed for your information and necessary action.

2. We would request you to please take up the matter for reduction of import duty on Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Russia as well as hessel free export of Hand-made Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets other Floor coverings from India.


Subject:- Second meeting of the Joint Committee at JS/DG level to review the implementation of CEPA. Please refer to your OM No.4/4/2011-FT(NEA) dated: 5-9-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that we have not received

any issue/obstacles from our member-exporters for export/import of goods and services with South Korea.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2011/ Dated: 16-8-2011 Subject:- Visit of CS to Colombia and Panama from 30th August to 2nd

September,2011 Please refer to your OM No.01/4/2009-FT(LAC) dated: 12 th August 2011 on the above subject. Please include the following issues in the Agenda of the forthcoming meeting of Commerce Secretary in respect of the above Countries :

1) Visa should be granted to the Indian Exporter of Carpets on priority for participation in the Fairs/Exhibitions as well as for Export Promotion tour in Colombia and Panama. No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2011/ Dated: 16-8-2011

Subject:- Strategy Paper for CIS countries – Inputs on impediments in Economic relations with the CIS countries. Please refer to your letter No.17/2/2011-FT(CIS) dated: 4-8-2011on the above subject. The exports of Indian Handmade Carpets & other Floor coverings under HS Code 57 in the following CIS Countries during the period 2008-09 & 2009-10 are given below : ( Value in US $ Million )

Sl.No. Country 2008-09 2009-101 Kyrgyzstan 0.03 0.01

2. Ukraine 1.28 0.703. Uzbekistan Nil 0.034. Azerbaijan 0.36 0.145. Belerus 0.15 0.096. Georgia 0.17 0.257. Kazakhstan 0.01 0.078. Moldova Nil 0.019. Russia 3.07 2.53

This is for your kind information please.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2011/ Dated: 7-8-2011 Please refer to your email dated: 8th August 2011 regarding Commerce Secretary’s visit to Colombia and Panama. We are giving below details of import tariff in respect of the following countries : Sl.No. Country Import Duty on Handmade Carpets

& other Floor coverings under Chapter – 57.

1. Colombia Import Duty 20% + GVAT 16% (on CIF+duty) + Custom Fee 1.2% on CIF value.

2. Panama 10-15% + GVAT In LAC region the following are the formalities :-

(1) Only valid Import License holders can import the goods.(2) Time consumed in clearance of goods after completion of so many formalities.(3) Exhibition goods cannot be sold on spot which attract heavy penalty.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref./2011/ Dated: 8-12-2011 Subject:- India New Zealand FTA/CECA Negotiaions.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/32/2007-IT dated: 20-10-2011 inviting comments from the Council for tariff elimination on export of Handknotted woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in New Zealand. In this connection we would like to inform you that New Zealand is a potential market for Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. India’s exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in New Zealand is given below : ( Value : ) Item Year Handmade woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings.

In order to increase India’s exports of the above items in New Zealand tariff elimination for Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in New Zealand under CECA Negotiation is very much essential. We would, therefore, request you to please recommend tariff elimination on the above items in New Zealand at the earliest.

Subject:- 2nd Session of India-Poland Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation . Please refer to your letter No.12014/32/2006-IT dated: 29 th July 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings not included in the Protocol sent with the above letter. Therefore, information asked from the Council in this regard may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- Working text on the labeling of textiles, clothing, footwear and travel goods.

Please refer to your letter No.1/70/2004-IT-IT dated: 1st August 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings not included in the Annexure submitted with the above letter. Therefore, information asked from the Council in this regard may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- 6th Session of India-Greece Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation (JEC) held on 27-28 March, 2011 – Follow up action. Please refer to your letter No.12014/30/2007-IT dated: 25 th July 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that issues mentioned in the Protocol of the 6th Session of India-Greece JEC held at Athens on 27-28 March, 2011 is not concerning Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- 16th Session of Indo-Swedish Joint Commission for Economic, Industrial and Scientific Cooperation. Please refer to your letter No.12014/11/2006-IT dated: 18 th August 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present this Council do not have any proposal/project for the above JCM.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref./2011/ Dated: 2-8-2011

Subject:- Visit of Commerce Secretary, Govt. of India to Colombia and Panama in August/Sept. 2011.

Please refer to your letter No.03/01/2009-FT(LAC) dated: 28 th July 2011 on the above subject. We are giving below India’s exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Colombia & Panama :

( Value US$ Million ) 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Colombia 0.92 1.38 1.05 Panama 2.62 3.07 1.09

From the above export figures it has been noticed that there is not much prospects for Handmade Carpets and Floor coverings in the above countries. However, there is higher import tariff and cumbersome import regulations in LAC, which should be taken up with the counterparts of Colombia & Panama especially for Handmade Carpets & Floor coverings.


.

Subject:- (i) Comments on the proposed list of products where duty may not be reduced under India-New Zealand FTA/CECA negotiations ; and (ii) Inputs for India-Australia CECA negotiations; Please refer to letter No.4/7/2011-FT(Oceania) dated: 19-7-2011 on the above subject. In this connection the comments of the Council is as under :

i) Australia & New Zealand are focus markets under MDA Scheme. These are small markets. India’s exports of Carpets & Floor coverings to Australia & New Zealand is around US$ 33 million during the year 2010-11. The Council is exploring these markets by organizing regular participation in Decoration + Design Show in Melbourne, Australia. r Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2011/ Dated: 29-6-2011 Subject:- India-Canada CEPA. Please refer to your letter OM No.4/6/2010-FT(NAFTA) dated: 13 th

June, 2011 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject. This Council vide letter dated: 24-2-2011 already informed that there is no mention about Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in the Negative List for India-Canada CEPA-UV and RCA Analysis as such comments asked from the Council in this regard may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2011/ Dated: 6-6-2011 Subject:- To identify SPS/TBT issues to be raised in SPS/TBT Meetings in the WTO. Please refer to your letter No.8/14/2010-EP(Textiles) dated: 23rd May, 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that we do not have any issues on the above subject as far as Indian Handmade Carpet Industry is concerned. Therefore, information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2011/ Dated: 2-6-2011 Subject:- BHLG meeting with Mexico. Please refer to your OM No.7/1/2011-FT(NAFTA) dated:23rd May 2011 on the above subject. We are giving following points with the request to kindly place these issues in the meeting of BHLG with Mexico in respect of Handmade Carpets and other Floor coverings :

1) Import Regulations in LAC region including Mexico is cumbersome and takes long time in clearance of the goods from Customs. Import regulations for clearance of Exhibition Goods should be simplified.

2) Import Duty on Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Mexico is 20% plus VAT which should be brought down to a competitive international rate.

It may be mentioned that there is a scope of increasing exports of Handmade Carpets & other Floor coverings to Mexico being a moderate economy of the country.


Subject:- Agreed minutes of 4th Session of India-Morocco Joint Commission meeting held in New Delhi on 29th April,2011 Please refer to your letter No.12014/04/2011-IT dated: 26 th May 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that Morocco is a carpet producing country and India’s competitor. As such there is no action on the part of this Council in this regard. No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref./2011/ Dated: 1-6-2011

Subject:- India-Chile Prudential Trade Agreement (PTA) Negotiations Expansion of lists of Products thereof Please refer to your letter No.12014/16/2004-IT dated: 27 th May, 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would request you to please include the following items in the list of Prudential Trade Agreement of Chile with the level of 50% of total import for particular country including India :

List Sl.No. HS Code Product2281 57031010 Carpets & Textile Floor coverings

tufted of wool or Animal hair2282 57031090 Other Floor Coverings2283 57033010 Carpet Carpeting And RugsTo be included after Sl.No.

57032010 Carpet Carpeting & Rugs Tufted of Man Made Fibre.

2282

Subject:- Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) Meeting with Zambia to be held on 22-24th June, in Lusaka, Zambia.

Please refer to your letter No.8/11/2010-EP(Textiles) dated:24-5-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Zambia is almost negligible. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- India-Thailand FTA negotiations. Please refer to your letter No.12014/15/2003-IT dated:9-5-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Thailand is almost negligible. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- Senior Officers Meeting of India-Zimbabwe Joint Trade Committee at Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi.

Please refer to your letter No.8/11/2010-EP(Textiles) dated:19-5-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Zimbabwe is almost negligible. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- India-Australia Joint Ministerial Commission(JMC).

Please refer to your letter No.12014/31/2007-IT dated: 21-4-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would request you to please place the following suggestion in the above meeting :

1) Handmade Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings may please be included under GSP (Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) with Australia.

2) Handmade Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings meant for display in the Fairs/Exhibition in Australia (Exhibition Goods) should be exempted from the levy of import duty on self-declaration by the exhibitors. However, duty may be charged if the exhibition goods are sold during the exhibition .

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.ref./2011/ Dated: 9-5-2011

Subject:- Draft text of China on ‘Liberalization of Tariff in the Clothing Sector “. Please refer to your letter No.1/70/2004-IT-IT dated: 29 th April 2011 inviting comments from the Council on the draft text communicated by China on ‘Liberalization of Tariff in the Clothing Sector’. In this connection we would request for consideration of liberalization of tariff on Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings also under Chapter – 57 in China.

Subject:- Note on Anti-Dumping Cases initiated against India. Please refer to your letter No.12/14/2009-EP(Text)Coordination dated: 27-4-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform that the above matter is not concerning Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref./2011/ Dated: 9-5-2011 Subject:- Joint Trade Committee meeting between India and Zimbabwe – Senior Officers Meeting in New Delhi.. Please refer to your letter No.12014/06/2011-IT dated:21-4-2011 forwarding therein copy of letter No.8/11/2010-EP(Textiles) dated: 19-4-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that we have already sent reply vide our letter dated: 20-4-2011 addressed to Mr. Ram Raj, Section Office, Ministry of Commerce & Industry copy of which is enclosed for your ready reference. No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref./2011/ Dated: 9-5-2011

Subject:- 6thth Session of the Indo-Tajik Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation. Please refer to your letter No.12014/23/2006-IT dated:26-4-2011 on the above subject. At present we do not have any issue for taking up during the above

meeting. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.

Subject:- 5th Session of the India-Belarus Inter Governmental Commission (IBIGC) on Economic, Trade, Industrial, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation. Please refer to your letter No.12014/22/2008-IT dated:20-4-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Tajik is almost negligible. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref./2011/ Dated: 20-4-2011

Subject:- Fifth meeting of the India-Belarus Inter Governmental Commission (IBIGC) on Economic, Trade, Industrial, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation.

Please refer to your letter No.8/11/2010-EP(Textiles) dated:19-4-2011 on the above subject. At present we do not have any issue for taking up during the above meeting. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- Joint Trade Committee meeting between India and Zimbabwe – Senior Officers Meeting in New Delhi.. Please refer to your letter No.8/11/2010-EP(Textiles) dated:19-4-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Zimbabwe is almost negligible. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref./ Dated: 20-4-2011

Subject:- Draft text of China on ‘Liberalization of Tariff in the Clothing Sector’. Please refer to your letter No.43(12)/2010/EC dated: 15-4-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that draft text of china on Liberalization of Tariff is not concerning Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. Therefore, the reply asked from the Council in this regard may kindly be treated as Nil


Subject:- Forthcoming high level visits to Mauritius, Ethopia and Tanzania.. Please refer to your letter No.8/11/2010-EP(Textiles) dated:11-4-2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Mauritius, Ethopia and Tanzania is almost negligible. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- 2nd Meeting of the India-Ghana Joint Trade Committee (JTC) on 24th & 25th January 2011. Please refer to your letter No.12014/17/2010-Intl. Trade Dated: 13 th May, 2010 inviting comments from the Council on the draft agenda of the above meeting. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Ghana is almost

negligible. As such the views asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2011/ Dated: 7-4-2011 Subject:- Draft text of China on ‘Liberalization of Tariff in the Clothing Sector’. Please refer to your letter No.1/70/2004-IT-IT dated: 1st April 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that the products covered in the Draft Modalities for the Liberalisation of Tariffs is not concerning Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings. Therefore, the reply asked from the Council in this regard may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2011/ Dated: 24-3-2011

Subject:- 18th Session of the India-Italy Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation held on 14-12-2009 at New Delhi. Please refer to your letter No.12014/28/2006-IT dated: 4-3-2011 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that we have not received minutes of the 18 th Session of the India-Italy Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation held on 14-12-2009 at New Delhi. We would, therefore, request you to please send us the same at the earliest to enable us to send reply.. No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2011/ Dated: 8-3-2011

Subject:- India-Nepal Inter-Governmental Sub-Committee (IGSC) Meeting.

Please refer to your letter No.12015/43/1999-IT dated: 10-2-2011 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present this Council has no issue regarding trade in Nepal relating to Carpet.


Subject:- Tariff concessions from Thailand under India-Thailand. Please refer to your letter No.12014/15/2003-IT dated: 4 th March, 2011 on the above subject. This Council have no objection for inclusion of items under Sl.Nos.897, 900, 902, 903, 906, 907, 914 covered under the purview of this Council. No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2011/ Dated: 8-3-2011

Subject:- India-Nepal Inter-Governmental Sub-Committee (IGSC) Meeting.

Please refer to your letter No.12015/43/1999-IT dated: 10-2-2011 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present this Council has no issue regarding trade in Nepal relating to Carpet.


Subject:- India-Canada CEPA.

Please refer to your letter No.4/6/2010-FT(NAFTA) dated: 19 th

January & 21st February, 2011 inviting comments from the Council on the above

subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that there is no mention about Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in the Negative List for India-Canada CEPA-UV and RCA Analysis as such comments asked from the Council in this regard may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Accounts/2011/ Dated: 15-2-2011

Subject:- Examination of Demands for grants (2008-09) of the Ministry of Textiles for the year 2011-12. Please refer to your letter No.K-12012/3/1/2011-P&R/5155 dated: 11-2-2011 forwarding therewith O.M. No.23(1)/2011 ED(Text) dated: 8 th February 2011 on the above subject. Grants received from Ministry of Textiles during 2007-08, 2008-09 & 2009-10 are given below as per details mentioned in the Annual Reports at Page Nos.33 & 31 copies of which are sent for your kind perusal :

Year Grant received2007-08 Rs.2,75,06,570.002008-09 Rs.2,96,79,709.002009-10 Rs.3,06,35,449.00


Subject:- China-Asia-Europe Expo.

Please refer to your OM No.2/13/2010-FT(NEA) dated: 27 th December 2010 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that in order to promote exports of carpets in China this Council alongwith it’s member-exporters had participated in Qinghai Intl. Carpet Exhibition in Xinning (China) from 20-23 June 2010. This Council have also decided to organize Stand Alone Show of carpets in Departmental Stores in Tanjin City (China) in March 2011.

We would request you to please send us complete information such as participation charges contact details of the organizers, details of exhibits etc. at the earliest to enable us to circulate amongst our member-exporters for participation in the above event.

.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2011/ Dated: 6-1-2011 Subject:- 2nd Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting in Delhi on 20th and 21st January 2011 between India and Ghana Please refer to your letter No.8/11/2010-EP(Textiles) dated: 3 rd January 2011 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present this Council has no issue regarding trade and investment in Ghana relating to Carpet.


Subject:- First meeting of the Joint Committee at Ministerial level to review the implementation of CEPC. Please refer to your OM No.4/4/2010-FT(NEA) dated: 27 th December 2010 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present we do not have any problem/issue relating to exports of Carpets & Floor coverings in South Korea. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2010/ Dated: 24-12-2010

Subject:- 2nd Meeting of the India-Ghana Joint Trade Committee (JTC) on 24th & 25th January 2011. Please refer to your letter No.12014/17/2010-Intl. Trade Dated: 13 th May, 2010 inviting comments from the Council on the draft agenda of the above meeting. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Ghana is almost negligible. As such the views asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2010/ Dated: 15-12-2010 Subject:- VIP ref. received from Shri Virender Kashyap MP(LS) regarding participation in an exhibition on “1st Vision Himachal 2010” from 19th to 21st December, 2010 at Shimla. Please refer to your letter No.7/1/2010-EP(Text) dated: 14 th

December, 2010 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that the main objective of the Council is to promote, increase & maintain the exports of Handmade Carpets & other Floor coverings from India. Hence participation in the above exhibition is not feasible for this Council.

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade (Brazil)/2010/ Dated: 30-8-2010 Subject :- 3rd Meeting of the India-Brazil Trade Monitoring Mechanism (TMM) to be held on 14-9-2010 in New Delhi. Please refer to your letter No.12014/2/2009-IT dated: 26 th August 2010 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that we have already sent reply vide our letter dated: 28-7-2010 (copy enclosed) addressed to Mr. Ganesh Singh, Section Officer, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, FT(LAC) Division, on the above subject. No.CEPC/SEC/Trade (Brazil)/2010/ Dated: 28-7-2010

Subject:- Holding of the third Meeting of the India- Brazil Trade Monitoring Mechanism (TMM) Please refer to your letter No.03/04/2010-FT(LAC) dated: 7th July, 2010 inviting issues/initiatives/proposals from the Council for taking up the same in the above meeting.

During Council’s participation in House & Gift Fair in Sao Paulo (Brazil) during 2008 & 2009 it was noticed that the following issues/problems needs suitable remedial at appropriate level :

1) Import Regulations in Brazil is cumbersome and takes long time in clearance of the goods. Import regulations for clearance of Exhibition Goods should be simplified.

2) Total Duties including local state taxes & duties etc. on Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings comes around 100% on FOB value of goods, which should be brought down to a competitive rate to

3) Network system in Brazil is very poor which needs improvement.

We would request you to kindly take up the above issues in the 3rd meeting of Trade Monitoring Mechanism .


Subject:- India-Canada Trade Policy Consultations, 2010

Please refer to your letter No.4/3/2010-FT(NAFTA) dated: 4 th August 2010. on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present we do not have any bilateral trade and investment issues, including issues regarding market access for Indian Carpets in Canada. Therefore, the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2010/ Dated: 19-8-2010 Subject:-Compilation of Incentives/Benefits/Scheme for Exporters – EPC-wise. Please refer to your letter No.B/1/2010-EP(Textiles) dated: 9 th August 2010 on the above subject. Following Incentives/Benefits/Scheme are available for the exporters of Handmade Carpets & other Floor coverings :

1) Duty Credit Scrip equivalent to 5% of FOB value of exports under the Focus Product Scheme.of Foreign Trade Policy.

2) 2% interest subversion on Pre & Post-shipment export credit.3) Refund of duties under Duty Drawback Scheme on Carpets, rugs, druggets and

other floor coverings under various Tariff item (copy enclosed).4) Reimbursement of travel expenses by Air in economy excursion class fare and/or

charges of the built up furnished stall are admissible to the Exporters under the MDA Scheme of the Ministry of Commerce for participation in overseas Fairs/Exhibitions as under :

Sl.No. Area/Sector Maximum Financial ceiling per event.

1. FOC LAC Rs.1,80,000/-2. FOCUS AFRICA, CIS, Rs.1,50,000/-

ASEAN+2 3. General Areas Rs. 80,000/-*

…2..-

No travel grant is permissible for visit to General Areas.

*However, for priority sectors, having large employment generation potential, viz. Agriculture including food items, Handicrafts, Handlooms, Carpets are eligible for 2 participations in Fairs & Exhibitions in General Areas with the assistance of Rs.1,50,000/- for each participation. The exporters availing of assistance under this provision would however, be in addition to these participations, eligible for only any 2 Focus Area participations. 5)There is no exemption under Income Tax Act to the Carpet Industry.


Subject:- Rules of Origin related issues of the FTAs on which India is negotiating with European Union (EU) and Japan. Both EU and Japan – regarding. Please refer to your letter No.12014/1/2007-IT dated: 9 th July 2010 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that the following inputs are imported for manufacturing of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets etc. :

1) Raw wool 2) Dyes & Chemicals3) Moth Proofing Agents


Subject:- Special incentives given under Focus Africa Scheme.

Please refer to your letter No.8/1/2010-EP(Textiles) dated: 2nd August 2010 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that under MDA Scheme of the Ministry of Commerce (w.e.f.1-4-2006) under FOCUS AFRICA Scheme assistance would be permissible to the exporters on travel expenses by air in economy excursion class fair and/or charges of the built up furnished stall within the ceiling of Rs.1,50,000/- for participation in Fairs/Exhibitions in African Countries.

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade (Brazil)/2010/ Dated: 28-7-2010

Subject:- Holding of the third Meeting of the India- Brazil Trade Monitoring Mechanism (TMM) Please refer to your letter No.03/04/2010-FT(LAC) dated: 7th July, 2010 inviting issues/initiatives/proposals from the Council for taking up the same in the above meeting.

During Council’s participation in House & Gift Fair in Sao Paulo (Brazil) during 2008 & 2009 it was noticed that the following issues/problems needs suitable remedial at appropriate level :


2) Total Duties including local state taxes & duties etc. on Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings comes around 100% on FOB value of goods, which should be brought down to a competitive rate to


We would request you to kindly take up the above issues in the 3rd meeting of Trade Monitoring Mechanism .

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade(LAC)/2008/ Dated: 21-5-2010

Subject:- India-Chile Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) – Expansion of lists of products thereof. Please refer to your letter No.45/17/2000-FT(LAC) dated: 13th April, 2010 on the above subject.. We are giving below following issues with the request to please take up the same in the above meeting :

1) Import duty on Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets & other Floor coverings in Chile is high i.e. 25% (Duty+VAT) the same should be brought down. It may be mentioned that Chile is an upcoming market of Handmade Carpets & other Floor coverings and there is a tremendous scope for these items. If the import duty is brought down, the exports of these items from India could be increased.

2) Free movement of Exhibition Goods should be allowed in Chile. The Member-exporters of this Council brought to the notice of the Council that they are facing problem in release of exhibition goods meant for display in the Fairs/Exhibitions in Chile. Hence they are backing out from participation in exhibitions in Chile. It is, therefore, suggested that the matter be taken up in the PTA meeting for redressal.


Subject:- Third Meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to coordinate the plan and strategy for dealing with issues relating to non-tariff measures (NTMs) and to increase India’s market access abroad. Please refer to your letter No.12014/16/2008-Intl. Trade Dated: 13 th May, 2010 inviting comments from the Council on the above issue. In this connection we would like to inform you that in the Agenda Points circulated vide your above letter there is no issue concerning Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets

etc. has been mentioned. As such the comments asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2010/ Dated: 20-5-2010 Please refer to your letter No.12014/27/2007-IT dated: 19-5-2010 inviting comments from the Council on the proposed “Trade in Goods Agreement” of India-Malaysia CECA. In this connection we would like to inform you that Handmade Woollen Carpets,Rugs, Druggets etc. have not been included in the Proposed Exclusion (Negative) List of India under India-Malaysia. As such the comments asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.


Subject:- Follow up action on the Protocol of the First Session of the Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of India and Government of The Republic of the Azerbaijan.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/11/2007-IT dated: 27-4-2010 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Indian Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other floor coverings in Republic of the Azerbaijan is almost negligible. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil. Subject:- Follow up action on the Protocol of First Session of Polish-India Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation held in New Delhi on May 27, 2008.

Please refer to your letter No.12014/32/2006-IT dated: 8-5-2010 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present we have not received any problems from our member-exporters for export of carpets in Poland. As such the information asked from the Council on the above subject may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref./2010/ Dated: 13-4-2010 Subject:- Malaysia’s tentative exclusion (Negative) List under the “Trade in Goods Agreement” of India-Malaysia CECA. Please refer to your letter No.12014/27/2007-Intl.Trade dated: 9 th April 2010 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Indian Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other floor coverings in Malaysia is ___________.during _________. Therefore, we request you to kindly request Malaysia to remove the above items from their Exclusion (Negative) List.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref./2010/ Dated: 25-3-2010 Subject:- Organising negotiations for India-Japan CEPA and India EU BTIA. Please refer to your letter No.12014/15/2007-IT dated: 23-3-2010 inviting views/comments from the Council on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that during Council’s participation in the Japantex Fair in Tokyo (Japan) from 11-13 November, 2009 it was experienced that due to procedural delay in clearance of exhibition goods by Custom Authorities in Japan resulting late display of goods in the exhibition. Therefore, it is suggested that the exhibition goods meant for display in the exhibition should be liberalized and cleared the same immediately by the Japanese Custom Authorities without any restrictions. We would, therefore, request you to kindly place the above issue in the Inter Ministerial Meeting to be held on 25-3-2010. No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2009/ Dated: 29-7-2009 Subject:- Trade Policy Review of Southern African Customs Union-SACU. Please refer to your letter No.15/16/2009-TPD dated: 22nd July 2009 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present this Council has no specific issues in respect of Southern African Customs Union-SACU. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Gov.Ref/2009/ Dated: 29-7-2009 Subject:- Trade Policy Review of Chile. Please refer to your letter No.15/15/2009-TPD dated: 22nd July 2009 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that at present this Council has no specific issues in respect of Chile. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2009/ Dated: 24-7-2009

Subject:- Bilateral consular consultations with Kazakhstan. Please refer to your letter No.6/1/2008-FT(CIS) dated: 21-7-2009 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings in Kazakhstan is negligible. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/Govt. Ref./2009 Dated: 15-7-2009

Subject :- Inter-Ministerial Meeting for formulating India’s position On the issue relating to reduction/elimination of Tariff and Non-Tariff barriers on trade of Environmental Goods currently under

negotiation under Para 31(iii) of Doha Ministerial Declaration in the Council for Trade and Environment.Sir,

Please refer to your letter No.12014/21/2006-IT dated: 2nd July 2009 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that in the List of Possible Tariff Lines of India’s Export Interest the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets etc. have not been mentioned. As such comments invited from the Council may kindly be treated as ‘Nil’.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2009/ Dated: 20-5-2009 Subject:- WTO Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) and the Agreement on the application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures. Please refer to your letter No.M.M-11036/10/2000-EP-Tex(Pt)-844 dated: 11-5-2009 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that the above matter is not related to the Council. As such the information asked from the Council on the above matter may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade(LAC)/2008/ Dated: 19-12-2008

Subject:- First meeting of Joint Administrative Committee to review the implementation of India-Chile Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). Please refer to your letter No.45/17/2000-FT(LAC) dated: 12th December,2008 on the above subject. We are giving below following issues with the request to please take up the same in the above meeting :

3) Import duty on Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets & other Floor coverings in Chile is high i.e. 25% (Duty+VAT) the same should be brought down. It may be mentioned that Chile is an upcoming market of Handmade Carpets & other Floor coverings and there is a tremendous scope for these items. If the import duty is brought down, the exports of these items from India could be increased.

4) Free movement of Exhibition Goods should be allowed in Chile. The Member-exporters of this Council brought to the notice of the Council that they are facing problem in release of exhibition goods meant for display in the Fairs/Exhibitions in Chile. Hence they are backing out from participation in exhibitions in Chile. It is, therefore, suggested that the matter be taken up in the PTA meeting for redressal.

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade (Brazil)/2008/ Dated: 6-10-2008

Subject:- Visit of senior officers of Department of Commerce to Cuba, Brazil and Chile in November 2008.

Please refer to your letter No.05/01/2008-FT(LAC) dated: 24-9-2008 inviting issues/initiatives/proposals from the Council for taking up the same during the visit of senior officers of Department of Commerce to Cuba, Brazil and Chile in November 2008.

During Council’s participation in 37 House & Gift Fair in Sao Paulo (Brazil) from 16-19 August 2008 it was noticed that the following issues/problems needs suitable remedial at appropriate level :


2) Import Duty on Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floor coverings is high more than 100% after adding local state taxes & duties, which should be brought down.


We would request you to kindly take up the above issues during the meeting with the senior officers of Department of Commerce to Brazil in November, 2008.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2008/ Dated: 2-6-2008 Subject :- Impact of Free Trade Agreement between the Republic of Chile & the People’s Republic of China on India’s trade and economy. Please refer to your letter No.45/17/2000-FT(LAC)(Vol.X) dated: 21st May, 2008 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject. In this connection we would request you to please send us a copy of WTO report on the above subject at the earliest to enable us to send reply.

No.CEPC/SEC/TradePolicy/2007/ Dated: 27-8-2007 Sub:- Next Round of Trade Policy Consultations/Meetings with NAFTA countries (USA, Canada & Mexico).

Sir,

Please refer to your letter No.M-11011/2/2004-1C dated: 8-8-2007 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that we have asked the issues/problems relating to NAFTA countries from all the Members of the Council and Regional Carpet Mfrs.Associations.

No.CEPC/SEC/Ind-Japan/2007/ Dated: 26-8-2007

Subject::- India-Japan CEPC Negotiations

Please refer to your letter No.12015/27/2006-Intl.Trade dated: 6-8-2007 inviting comments/views/issues from the Council on the above subject.

In this connection we would like to bring to your kind notice that during Council’s participation in the Japantex 2007 which was held in Tokyo (Japan) from 22-25 November 2006 we had experienced that import clearance procedures of Exhibition goods in Japan is cumbersome and takes much time. The import procedure of exhibition goods should be simplified so that exhibitors will not face problems in getting delivery of their goods in their stand before start of the exhibition. Custom Duties, Consumption Tax etc. in Japan is reported to be high which should be brought down. Labelling procedures for Household goods in Japan is also very complicated & expensive which should be simplified. Besides the above procedures there is regulations and procedural requirements at the time of importation in Japan such as Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Law (Import Trade Control Order), Regulations and Procedural Requirements at the time of Sale, Fire Service Law etc..

We would request you to kindly place the above issues in the next meeting of India-Japan Joint Task Force

No.CEPC/SEC/NAFTA & LAC/2007/ Dated: 22-8-2007

Subject:- Trade Promotional Activities in NAFTA and LAC regions.

Please refer to your letter No.06/01/2007-FT(LAC) dated: 18th July 2007 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that under Ministry of Textiles Fund this Council had participated in the House & Gift Fair of South America in Sao Paulo (Brazil) from 20-23 August 2005 and organised Carpet Exhibition in Toronto (Canada) from 11-13 December 2006.

No.CEPC/SEC/TPC(USA,CANADA & MEXICO) Dated: 23-8-2007

Subject:- Next Round of Trade Policy Consultations/Meetings with NAFTA countries (USA, Canada & Mexico) Please refer to your letter No.M-11011/2/2004-IC dated: 8-8-2007 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that this Council under Ministry of Textiles Scheme had organised Carpet Exhibition in Toronto (Canada) from 11-13 December 2006 where 11 member-exporters participated and display their products in this event. They have secured confirmed orders worth US$ 360,000 and orders worth US$ 500,000 was under negotiation. Total import of Carpets into Canada during 2003, 2004 & 2005 are given below with India.s share :

( Value in U.S.$ Millions )

2003 2004 2005Total Import 518 591 640Imported from India 27 35 39India’s market share 5.21% 5.92% 6.09%

We are sending herewith a copy of report on Carpet Exhibition organised by the Council in Toronto (Canada) from 11-13 December 2006 with the request to kindly place the suggestions/recommendations made in the report in the next round of Trade Policy Consultations/Meetings.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt.Ref/2008/ Dated: 2nd June,2008

Subject:-Follow up action on minutes of the Bilateral Meeting held in April, 2008 between India and Egypt. Please refer to your letter No.12014/10/2008-Intl.Trade dated: 6 th May,2008 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that the information related to fabrics, yarn,clothing products by the textiles industry and not related to Handmade Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other floor coverings. Therefore, the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/EU FTA/2008/ Dated: 6-2-2008

Subject :- Negative List ofo EU under India-FTA. Please refer to your letter No.12014/35/2007-Intl. Trade dated: 28-1-2008 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that in the Negative List the products covered under the purview of this Council i.e. Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets etc. have not been mentioned. As such information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as ‘Nil’.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt./Ref/2007/ Dated: 7-11-2007 Subject:- Indo-Greece Joint Economic Commission. Please refer to your letter No.12014/30/2007-Intl.Trade dated: 7-11-2007 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that Greece is upcoming market for Handmade Carpets and having great potential. India’s exports of Carpets and other Textile Floor coverings in Greece has been increased substantially from 3.93 US$ Million during 2002-03 to US$ Million 17.24 2006-07. In order to promote exports of Handmade Carpets & other Textile Floorcoverings in Greece following assistance is required in the larger interest of both the countries :

1) Provide 100% financial assistance on Space rent, Freight & Publicity for participation in Fairs & Exhibitions in Greece.

2) Import Regulation including clearance of Exhibition Goods in Greece should be simplified without any tariff barrier.

3) Fairs & Exhibitions of Carpets & Floorcoverings required to be organised jointly under Joint Ventures.

4) Visa formalities of the participants for participation in Fairs & Exhibitions in Greece should be simplified and applicant should be issued visa on priority.

We would request you to kindly place the above points before the next meeting of the Indo-Greece Joint Economic Commission.

No.CEPC/SEC/Govt./Ref/2007/ Dated: 30-10-2007

Subject :- Complaint of betrayal/cheating and breach of trust against Trading Links received from Laxmi Powerloom Unit, Bangalore. Please refer to your letter No.13/80/07-EP dated: 9-10-2007 inviting our comments on the above complaint. In this connection we would like to inform you that the Indian Fashion and Fabric Fair does not relates to the Fair for Carpets & Floorcoverings and we have not received any such complaint from our member-exporters against the Fair Authority of the said Fair. As such we do not have any comments to offer in this regard.

CARPET EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL

Placed below is a letter dated: 17-10-2007 from Under Secretary, Ministry of Textiles forwarding therewith OM dated: 12th October 2007 from Ministry of Commerce & Industry inviting our comments on finalisation of India’s Negative List for FTA with European Union. In the Negative List under HS Code 570320 Carpet and other textile floor coverings of nylon or other polyamides proposed for import from European Union. Inclusion of these carpets in the Negative List will not affect on exports of Indian Handmade Woollen Carpets into EU. If approved, we may send comments to the Ministry of Textiles accordingly.

Submitted for approval please.

Officiating ED

No.CEPC/SEC/I&E(Oct0/2007/ Dated: 15-10-2007 Subject:- 4th China-ASEAN Expo to be convened at the Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Guangxi, China on October 28-31 2007. Please refer to your letter No.5(32)/2007-TP dated: 5-10-2007 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that this Council is organizing India Carpet Expo in Hotel Taj Ganges, Varanasi from 17th to 19th October 2007 in which most of the member-exporters of this Council are participating. This Council is also participating in the Flooring Russia in Moscow (Russia) from 31st October to 2nd November 2007 where ten member-exporters are participating. This Council is, therefore, not in a position to consider participation in the 4 th China-ASEAN Expo in China from 28-31 October 2007 at such a short notice and this activity is not in the list of approved Activity of the Council.

No.CEPC/SEC/FTA(ISRAEL)/2007/ Dated: 1-8-2007 Subject:- Need and feasibility of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Israel.

Please refer to your O.M. No.06(04)/2007-FT(WANA) dated: 13th July 2007 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject.

In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets & other Textile Floor Coverings into Israel during 2004-05 was Rs.615.10 lakhs & 2005-06 was Rs.1,003.83 lakhs. Though exports of Carpets into Israel is not much encouraging but there is potential in the market. In order to increase exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets and other Floorcoverings we would like to make the following suggestions :

1) There may not be any tariff or non-tariff barriers for exports of Indian Carpets into Israel .

2) The Exhibition goods should be exempted from any levy of duty/tax on their

sale during the Exhibition which may secure good business for Indian exporters.

No.CEPC/SEC/Safta(Afg)/2007/ Dated: 19-7-2007 Subject::-Proposal for Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CEPA) with Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). Please refer to your letter No.12014/26/2006-Intl.Trade dated: 4-7-2007 inviting comments from the Council for offering/seeking concessions, sensitive items, rules of origin etc. on priority basis.

In this connection we would like to bring to your kind notice that during the Buyer Seller Meets organised by the Council in South Africa during September 2003, March 2005 & March 2007 the following problems experienced by the Council :

1) Import Duty on Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets etc. in South Africa is reported to be 35% which should be brought down.

2) Import clearance procedures of Exhibition goods in South Africa is cumbersome and takes 10-15 days time. The import procedure of exhibition goods should be simplified so that the purpose of sending the goods for display in the exhibition is fulfilled because sometime due to cumbersome procedure the clearance of goods is done after the exhibition is over and the purpose is defeated .

We would request you to kindly place the above issues before the Trade & Economic Relations Committee in it.s next meeting which will help in strengthening the exports of Indian Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets etc. into South Africa.

No.CEPC/SEC/Safta(Afg)/2007/ Dated: 19-7-2007

Subject:-Minutes of the India-Tanzania Joint Trade Committee meeting. Please refer to your letter No.12014/18/2007-Intl.Trade dated: 4-7-2007 forwarding therewith minutes of the India-Tanzania Joint Trade Committee meeting held in May 2007 in New Delhi. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Handmade Woollen Carpets into Tanzania is negligible as such this Council do not have any action in this regard.

No.CEPC/SEC/Safta(Afg)/2007/ Dated: 19-7-2007

Subject:- Wish List of India under India-MERCOSUR PTA. Please refer to your letter No.12014/5/2004-Intl.Trade dated: 11-7-2007 inviting comments from the Council on the above subject.

In this connection we would like to inform you that the listed items does not relates to the Handmade Woollen Carpets, rugs, druggets and other floorcoverings as such this Council do not have any comments to offer in this regard.

No.CEPC/SEC/Safta(Afg)/2007/ Dated: 19-7-2007 Subject:- Effect of Korea-US Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) on Indian textiles and clothing industry. Please refer to your letter No.12014/12/2007-Intl.Trade dated: 5-7-2007 inviting comments from the Council on the above issue. In this connection we would like to inform you that the enhance market assess by Korea and US on Indian Textiles and Clothing Industry may not have adverse impact on export of Handmade Woollen Carpets, Rugs, Druggets etc..

No.CEPC/SEC/Safta(Afg)/2007/ Dated: 19-7-2007 Subject:- Negative List of Afghanistan under SAFTA. Please refer to your letter No.12014/7/2004-Intl.Trade dated: 11-7-2007 inviting comments from the Council on the above issue. In this connection we would like to inform you that Afghanistan is not an importing country for Handmade Carpets hence inclusion of Handmade Carpets in the Negative List does not affect the India’s exports to Afghanistan.

Yours faithfully,

No.CEPC/SEC/Africa/2007/ Dated: 2-7-2007 Subject:- Opportunities in Africa in hydrocarbons reg. Please refer to your letter No.35/24/2007-FT(AF) dated: 5 th

June 2007 on the above subject. The information asked from the Council in respect of the products Hydrocarbon and Mineral sector are not concerning this Council. As such the information asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade/(IC)/2006 Dated: 20-7-2006

Subject:- India –Tajikistan Joint Commission. Please refer to your letter No.12014/23/06-IT dated: 14-7-2006 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Carpets in Tajikistan is negligible as such information in respect of this Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade/(IC)/2006 Dated: 20-7-2006 Subject:- The 2nd Joint Trade Committee (JTC) Meeting with Tanzania scheduled to be held in the last week of August, 2006 at New Delhi. Please refer to your letter No.36(1)2006-FT(AF) dated: 17-7-2006 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Carpets in Tanzania is negligible as such information in respect of this Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

Subject:- The 2nd Joint Trade Committee (JTC) Meeting with

Ivory Coast scheduled to be held on 3-4 August, 2006 at New Delhi. Please refer to your letter No.27(2)2006-FT(AF) dated: 11-7-2006 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Carpets in Ivory Coast is negligible as such information in respect of this Council may kindly be treated as Nil. No.CEPC/SEC/TBT/Kenya/2006/ Dated: 4-7-2006

Subject:- Your urgent comments on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) for TBT number G/TBT/KEN/28. Please refer to your email dated: 20-6-2006 addressed to Mr. V.R. Sharma, Chairman of this Council on the above subject. The comments asked from the Council in respect of the products mentioned in the Notification dated:14-6-2006 issued by the World Trade Organization not concerning this Council. As such the comments asked from the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade(Syria-Lebanon)/2006/ Dated:7-6-2006

Sub:- Indian Women Entrepreneurs Meet & Conference (IWQEM&C), Buyer Seller Meet & Exhibition in Syria and Lebanon during 1st to 12th July,2006. Please refer to your letter No.13/7/2006-Exports-I dated: 11-5-2006 forwarding therewith a copy of letter from Ministry of Commerce & Industry on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Carpets into Syria and Lebanon is almost negligible. This Council is, therefore, of the view that participation in the above Buyer Seller Meet & Exhibition in Syria and Lebanon will not be beneficial to the carpet exporters. Subject:- Review of ISACA

Kindly refer to your OM No.28(2)/2006-FT(AF) dated: 16 th May, 2006 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that during the B.S.Meet organised by the Council on 15th & 16th March 2005 it was experienced that the custom clearance procedures for release of exhibition goods are very cumbersome and it takes four to five days to get delivery of the exhibition goods. We would therefore, request you to kindly take up the matter with the South African Authorities in the next meeting for simplification of the custom clearance procedures for release of exhibition goods.

No.CEPC/SEC/Indo-Swedish/2006/ Dated: 26-4-2006 Subject:- 15th Session of the Indo Swedish Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) to be held on 16-5-2006.

Please refer to your email dated: 12-4-2006 requesting therein issues in respect of this Council concerning Indo-Swedish Joint Commission Meeting . In this connection we would like to inform you that at present this Council do not have any issue concerning 15th Session of the Indo Swedish Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) to be held on 16-5-2006. Therefore, information in respect of this Council may kindly treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/TC-97/2005/ Dated: 7-4-2006

M/s. Ashok Carpet Company, Jaunpur who are one of the registered member-exporters of this Council have brought to the notice of this Council that they had sent two shipments of Woollen Carpets vide Invoice No.ACC/557/00 dated: 8-12-2000 of Euro 6651.43 and ACC/558/00 dated: 21-12-2000 of Euro 4534.34 through you to their buyer M/s. Payal Import Export, Adolph Kolping Strasse-26, 51399 Bursheid, Germany. Which were fraudulently released by you without original B/L. The firm have further informed that after their vigorous efforts the buyer only released 65% of payment to them after three years. Your this act is unlawful and breach of contract and resulting financial loss to the Indian exporter. We would, therefore, request you to please send your comments on delivery of the above goods to the buyer without original B/L at the earliest.

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade/2006/ Dated: 8-3-2006 Subject:- India-Ethiopia Joint Trade Committee(JTC). Please refer to your letter No.12014/5/2006-Exports-Exports-II dated: 20-2-2006 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Carpets in Ethiopia is negligible as such information in respect of this Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

No.CEPC/SEC/Trade/2006/ Dated: 8-3-2006 Subject:- 6 th Session of Indo-Uzbekistan Commission .

Please refer to your letter No.4/24/2004-Exports-II dated: 28-2-2006 on the above subject. In this connection we would like to inform you that exports of Carpets in Uzbekistan is negligible as such the information in respect of the Council may kindly be treated as Nil.

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