Exporters Blues

Here I am outlining just a few areas where both the finance minister and the commerce minister can help exporters.

To claim duty drawback from the customs department, expor-ters need to go through a long and difficult process. Firstly, a lot of documents are required to be submitted. Secondly, exporters are requ-ired to move with the files to the various departments and in the pro-cess have to pay speed money to individuals at every step. Without this the files get lost or do not move at all.

Both the ministers can ensure that the number of documents are reduced to a minimum and that the exporters are not allowed to enter the department beyond the receiving clerk. All the claims and cheques must be expedited within 30 days as per the rules of the department. Any objections should be forwarded within 15 days, through the same receiving clerk or a separate window. In case a file is lost in the department the concerned officer must give an explanation.