'India SME Forum Urges Tax Relief and Simplified Compliance to Boost E-Commerce Exports'

Speaking to the media, Mr. Vinod Kumar, President, India SME Forum, underscored the challenges faced by MSMEs and the need for robust support from the Union Budget. He stressed the importance of E-Commerce Export Hubs as catalysts for expanding MSMEs' global footprint. He advocated for tax incentives and dedicated credit access programs to strengthen their ability to participate in cross-border trade seamlessly.

Simplification of Export Reconciliation Process

India SME Forum also called for the permanent simplification of the export reconciliation process. It urged a waiver of the Export Data Processing and Monitoring System (EDPMS) closure fee for smaller shipments and the integration of online portals for EDPMS clearance and eBRC generation. The forum recommended that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) make its directive to simplify the export reconciliation process permanent, with an indefinite waiver for the EDPMS closure fee for shipping bills up to $1,000 or ₹1,00,000, whichever is higher.

Speaking on these recommendations, Vinod Kumar stated: "The e-commerce export sector has immense potential to drive India's growth story on the global stage. By implementing these reforms, the government can unlock opportunities for millions of entrepreneurs and small businesses, strengthening India’s position as a global export powerhouse. India’s MSMEs are the backbone of our economy, and this budget presents a critical opportunity to implement policies that empower them to thrive. Addressing payment delays, simplifying customs processes, and fostering export hubs are vital to ensuring their competitiveness in global markets."

Additional Recommendations for E-Commerce Exporters

Mr. Kumar also emphasized the need for additional measures to boost e-commerce exports. He advocated for Priority Sector Lending (PSL) benefits to improve credit access, a reduction in GST on logistics costs to ease operational expenses, and incentives for international brand promotion to help MSMEs scale and compete globally. He further stressed the importance of nationwide adoption of Uttar Pradesh's Export Promotion Policy 2025-30, which includes a 75% reimbursement scheme for exporters, making it easier for businesses to expand their presence in global markets.

“We firmly believe that these reforms will not only benefit exporters but also contribute to India’s vision of becoming a $5 trillion economy,” added Kumar.

India SME Forum remains committed to working with the government and stakeholders to ensure the challenges faced by SMEs are addressed. The forum’s recommendations aim to create an enabling 

ecosystem for e-commerce exporters, unlocking their potential to contribute meaningfully to India’s economic growth.

About INDIA SME FORUM

India SME Forum (ISF) is the India’s largest not for profit, non-political, non-governmental & nontrade organization for Small and Medium Entrepreneurs, with over 98,200 MSMEs as paid members including 9400+ Women Entrepreneurs and over 12,36,000 MSMEs as subscribers, and with 19 State Chapters across the country. Our professional association & affiliation includes Ministry of MSME, Govt of India, FIDD RBI, UNIDO, UNCTAD, ITC Geneva, WUSME, INSME & WTO’s informal group for SMEs.

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