EPCH Membership and Export Support for Indian Handicraft Exporters
The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) is one of India’s largest and most active export promotion councils, operating under the Ministry of Textiles. It represents the handicraft export industry and provides critical support to exporters of handmade textiles, home furnishings, fashion jewellery, leather crafts, wooden products, metal crafts, and decorative items.
Why Should Handicraft Exporters Register with EPCH?
EPCH membership unlocks access to some of the most valuable buyer acquisition platforms in the industry. EPCH organises the Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair (IHGF Delhi Fair) which is Asia’s largest handicrafts trade fair held twice a year in Greater Noida. Members get subsidised stall rates, priority booking, and access to thousands of international buyers who attend the fair from over 100 countries.
Beyond trade fairs, EPCH provides RCMC (Registration Cum Membership Certificate) issuance, market intelligence reports, design development workshops, quality certification support, and connects exporters with buyer delegations visiting India. EPCH also manages the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative for handicrafts and coordinates with state governments on artisan welfare programs.
EPCH Membership Categories
EPCH offers membership to manufacturers, merchant exporters, and export houses dealing in handicraft products. The membership fee structure varies based on turnover and company type. New exporters typically start with the basic membership tier which provides access to trade fairs, buyer contacts, and RCMC services.
How to Apply for EPCH Membership
The process starts with an application on the EPCH website. You need a valid IEC, GST registration, company PAN, and a brief description of your product range. EPCH verifies the application and issues the membership certificate within 7 to 15 working days. Your RCMC is then issued through the DGFT eRCMC portal linked to EPCH.
Key EPCH Events and Programs
IHGF Delhi Fair (Spring and Autumn editions) is the flagship event. EPCH also organises Source India, the Home Expo India, and participation in international fairs like Ambiente Frankfurt, Maison et Objet Paris, and NY Now. Members get access to MAI (Market Access Initiative) funded international participation at significantly reduced costs.
How Rasp International Helps
We handle the complete EPCH membership application, RCMC registration, and trade fair participation planning for handicraft exporters. Whether you are a first-time artisan exporter from Moradabad, Jodhpur, or Agra, or an established export house looking to expand into new markets, our team ensures your EPCH membership delivers maximum return. Contact us to get started.