Shellac Export Promotion Council (SEPC)

Introduction to Shellac Export Promotion Council #

The Shellac Export Promotion Council (SEPC) is an apex body established by the Government of India to promote the export of shellac and its allied products. Shellac is a resinous secretion obtained from the lac insect (Kerria lacca) that is widely used in various industrial and commercial applications, including food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and paint industries. The SEPC works closely with the Indian shellac industry to enhance its competitiveness, explore new markets, and improve the quality and value of shellac products. In this article, we will discuss the role and functions of SEPC and how it has contributed to the growth of the Indian shellac industry.

History and Objectives #

The SEPC was established in 1956 under the Companies Act, 1956, as a non-profit organization. Its primary objective is to promote and develop the export of shellac and its allied products by providing various services and assistance to the shellac industry. Some of the key objectives of SEPC include:

1. Promotion of export of shellac and its allied products.
2. Improving the quality and value of shellac products through research and development.
3. Providing market intelligence and information to the shellac industry.
4. Providing technical, financial, and promotional support to the shellac industry.
5. Organizing trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets to promote shellac products globally.

Functions and Activities #

SEPC undertakes various functions and activities to promote the export of shellac and its allied products. Some of the key functions and activities of SEPC include:

1. Market Research and Promotion: SEPC conducts market research and analysis to identify new markets and opportunities for shellac products. It also promotes Indian shellac products globally by participating in international trade fairs and exhibitions, organizing buyer-seller meets, and conducting promotional campaigns.
2. Quality Control and Certification: SEPC works closely with the shellac industry to improve the quality and standards of shellac products. It provides technical assistance and training to the industry to comply with international quality and safety standards. SEPC also provides certification services for shellac products to meet the requirements of international buyers.
3. Export Assistance: SEPC provides various export assistance services to the shellac industry, including export documentation, logistics support, and financial assistance. It also provides information and guidance on export regulations, policies, and procedures.
4. Research and Development: SEPC conducts research and development activities to improve the quality and value of shellac products. It also provides financial assistance and support for research and development projects in the shellac industry.
5. Capacity Building: SEPC provides training and capacity building programs to the shellac industry to enhance its competitiveness and productivity. It also supports skill development programs for the workers and artisans involved in shellac production.

Achievements and Future Prospects #

SEPC has played a significant role in promoting the export of shellac and its allied products from India. It has helped to enhance the competitiveness and value of Indian shellac products in the global market. Some of the key achievements of SEPC include:

1. Increase in Export: SEPC’s efforts have resulted in a significant increase in the export of shellac and its allied products from India. In 2020-21, India exported shellac and its allied products worth USD 257.80 million.
2. Market Diversification: SEPC has helped the Indian shellac industry to diversify its export markets by exploring new markets such as Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. It has also helped the industry to expand its presence in traditional markets such as the United States, Europe, and Japan.
3. Quality Improvement: SEPC’s quality control and certification services have helped to improve the quality and safety standards of Indian shellac products. This has resulted in increased demand for Indian shellac products in the global market.
4. Capacity Building: SEPC’s capacity building programs have helped to enhance the skills and productivity of the workers and artisans involved in shellac production. This has led to improved working conditions and better livelihoods for the workers.

Looking ahead, SEPC has set ambitious targets to further enhance the export of shellac and its allied products from India. Some of the key focus areas for SEPC include:

1. Market Diversification: SEPC plans to explore new markets and increase the presence of Indian shellac products in existing markets. It also plans to focus on niche markets such as organic and natural products.
2. Quality Improvement: SEPC aims to improve the quality and safety standards of Indian shellac products to meet the requirements of international buyers. It plans to provide more training and technical assistance to the industry in this regard.
3. Innovation and Research: SEPC plans to encourage innovation and research in the shellac industry to develop new products and improve existing products. It also plans to support research and development projects in the industry.
4. Capacity Building: SEPC plans to continue its capacity building programs to enhance the skills and productivity of the workers and artisans involved in shellac production.

Conclusion #

The Shellac Export Promotion Council has played a vital role in promoting the export of shellac and its allied products from India. It has helped to enhance the competitiveness, value, and quality of Indian shellac products in the global market. SEPC’s efforts have resulted in increased export, market diversification, and quality improvement in the Indian shellac industry. Looking ahead, SEPC plans to continue its efforts to further enhance the export of shellac and its allied products from India by focusing on market diversification, quality improvement, innovation and research, and capacity building. The SEPC’s commitment and support to the Indian shellac industry are expected to benefit the industry and the Indian economy in the years to come.