HYDERABAD: The State Government is considering setting up an International Trade Facilitation Centre here for guiding small and medium exporters in international trade practices.

The State, hitherto known for its IT exports and services, had no significant exports in other fields, barring some aqua products and tobacco. However, the emphasis laid on promoting a variety of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) from textiles & garments, footwear & sports apparels, food processing & agri products, gems & jewellery and health sector related products, exports are expected to significantly increase once the units in the SEZs become operational.

In view of this, the State Government is positively considering the setting up of the new centre, mooted by the Federation of Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FAPCCI), for helping exporters and importers to overcome the difficulties they face in trading with their counterparts elsewhere. The new facility is expected to act as a one-stop shop for exporters and importers and as a single window for issue of clearances.

Counselling

Experts in foreign trade who will form part of the centre will offer counselling for traders making them understand practices and the emerging needs in the international market. According to Industries Department officials, FAPCCI that had forwarded the proposal for the new centre had agreed to provide space for it on its premises in the city along with the necessary infrastructure and communication facilities. "The federation has sent in its proposal for setting up the facility and we have responded positively to it," Industries Commissioner Sutirtha Bhattacharya said.

Permanent venue

He told The Hindu that since the new centre would be a permanent venue for export and import businesses from the State, the department had asked FAPCCI to work out necessary modalities. As the centre deals with international trade, the presence of trained human resources with adequate knowledge in international trade is mandatory.

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