The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) has applauded the government's move for providing the benefit to the handicraft exporters, in one of its policy initiatives, by including the list of tools in the policy provision i.e. duty free import of tools, trimmings and embellishment. The entitlement under the provision is 5 percent FOB value of handicrafts Exports during the preceding financial year.

Tools like Air and electric operated screw driver with hose and couplings, Tool bits, for motorizer and screw driver, Glue applicator, Moisture measuring tools, Air operated guns and tools for inserting fasteners for brads, flexi-points, pins, staples, nails and hinges, Power operated mitre saw, have been included in the policy provision.

Council Chairman also stated that such initiatives would help the Handicrafts sector produce better designed and crafted Handicrafts products and that, too, as per tastes and preferences of the overseas buyer.

The items included are just a beginning and hope fully with time the additional tools may be added to this list. The inclusion of items will help to boost handicraft exports in a considerable manner.