The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) plays a pivotal role in empowering Indian artisans and exporters by facilitating their access to global markets. Through strategic initiatives such as trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and exhibitions, EPCH has significantly enhanced the visibility and competitiveness of Indian handicrafts on the international stage.

EPCH’s Role in Promoting Indian Handicrafts

Established in 1986-87 as a non-profit organization, EPCH’s primary objective is to promote, support, protect, maintain, and increase the export of handicrafts. Over the years, the council has implemented various programs and activities aimed at showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of Indian handicrafts to a global audience.

Trade Fairs: Showcasing Indian Craftsmanship

One of EPCH’s most notable contributions is the organization of the Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair (IHGF) Delhi Fair, held biannually in Spring and Autumn editions. Recognized by the Limca Book of Records as the largest congregation of handicrafts exporters under one roof, the IHGF Delhi Fair features over 3,000 Indian exhibitors at the India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida, Delhi NCR. This event attracts thousands of international buyers, providing a significant platform for artisans and exporters to showcase their products.

In addition to the IHGF Delhi Fair, EPCH participates in more than 40 international fairs across major global markets annually. These events serve as crucial avenues for promoting Indian handicrafts, enabling exporters to connect with international buyers and understand global market trends.

Buyer-Seller Meets: Fostering Direct Interactions

EPCH organizes buyer-seller meets both in India and abroad, facilitating direct interactions between Indian artisans and international buyers. These meets are instrumental in understanding buyer requirements, negotiating deals, and establishing long-term business relationships. For instance, between June 2020 and September 2021, EPCH successfully organized six international virtual trade fairs and five virtual buyer-seller meets, with over 3,200 Indian companies participating and more than 5,000 overseas buyers and buying agents engaging in business on the virtual platform.

Exhibitions: Enhancing Global Visibility

EPCH also hosts and participates in various exhibitions to enhance the global visibility of Indian handicrafts. These exhibitions showcase a wide range of products, including housewares, decorative items, home accessories, home textiles, fashion jewelry, and more. By participating in these events, Indian artisans gain exposure to international markets, helping them understand global consumer preferences and adapt their products accordingly.

Impact on Handicraft Exports

The efforts of EPCH have yielded significant results in terms of export growth. In the fiscal year 2023-24, the membership of the council rose to 8,883, reflecting the growing interest and participation of exporters in the handicrafts sector. This increase in membership is indicative of the expanding network of artisans and exporters benefiting from EPCH’s initiatives.

Altus Exports: Partnering with Indian Manufacturers

While organizations like EPCH provide platforms and opportunities for market access, companies like Altus Exports play a complementary role in facilitating the export process for Indian manufacturers. As a premier merchant exporter, Altus Exports delivers the best of India’s textiles, handicrafts, chemicals, and food products to global markets.

Altus Exports seeks to form strategic alliances with manufacturers who share a commitment to excellence and global expansion. Ideal partners are those who produce export-quality products, aspire to establish a global footprint, and possess the necessary documentation and certifications for seamless export operations.

The partnership model of Altus Exports involves acting as an extension of the manufacturer’s business, serving as a dedicated export team. This includes expertise in finding buyers, access to comprehensive databases, a skilled marketing team, and an extensive network of contacts across various industries and regions. By leveraging these resources, Altus Exports simplifies the complex process of exporting and helps manufacturers tap into new markets with ease.

Manufacturers interested in partnering with Altus Exports can reach out through their Manufacturer Partnership page. By collaborating with Altus Exports, manufacturers can benefit from their expertise and network to successfully export their products to international markets.

Conclusion

EPCH’s initiatives in organizing trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and exhibitions have been instrumental in empowering Indian handicrafts by providing artisans and exporters with vital market access. Complementing these efforts, companies like Altus Exports offer valuable support to manufacturers aiming to establish a global presence. Through strategic partnerships and comprehensive export services, Altus Exports assists manufacturers in navigating the complexities of international trade, thereby contributing to the global success of Indian handicrafts.