Council for Leather Exports (CLE) - Role, Benefits & Registration Process

When it comes to leather export, India is one of the top countries on the list. India provides high-quality footwear, clothing, accessories, and other fine leather products to the markets all over the world. The Council of Leather Exports (CLE) is a very important body to facilitate and develop this industry by guiding and preparing the exporters, uplifting the industry standards, and assisting the Indian leather business in entering the global market.

This blog discusses what the CLE is, its role, its benefits, and its registration process to compete in global markets confidently and compliantly.

What is the Council of Leather Exports (CLE)?

The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) is the supreme body of the Indian leather industry that operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It was created to export leather, assist the manufacturers, and enhance the competitiveness of India in the world market.

The CLE is the manufacturer, exporter, and tanneries and suppliers of leather products in India. It also helps businesses access incentives, buyer-seller meetings, policy assistance, and international trade opportunities.

Role of Council of Leather Exports (CLE)

The CLE plays a vital role in nourishing India’s leather export Industry.

Among its major functions are:

1. Export Promotion

The CLE assists the leather exporters to reach new markets by:

• International trade fairs
• Buyer–seller meets
• Overseas marketing support
• Delegation programs

This offers the exporters a chance to present Indian leather products to the world.

2. Policy Advocacy

Council collaborates with the government in an effort to:

• policy changes
• Improve export schemes
• Support incentives such as RODTEP, EPCG, and the Duty Drawback Scheme

It guarantees the exporters a good business environment.

3. Training and Skill Development.

The leather business needs special expertise. CLE helps by:

• Arranging training activities.
• Certifying workers
• Supporting leather technology advancement.

This enhances the whole value chain.

4. Quality Improvement & Compliance.

CLE helps the exporters to comply with international standards by assisting them in:

• Product testing
• Certifications
• Adherence to international standards.
• Satisfying environmental and sustainability demands.

5. Market Research & Data Support

The CLE provides:

• Export reports
• Market analysis
• Industry trends
• Trade statistics

This assists exporters in planning their business strategies efficiently

How to Register with the Council for Leather Exports (CLE)

To qualify for the benefits, you must have an active CLE membership. Once registered, exporters have access to benefits, trade options, and government incentives.

Below is your step-by-step guide for registration:

Step 1: Check the Necessary Documents.

You will require:

• PAN Card
• Importer Exporter Code (IEC)
• Registration of the company/partnership deed.
• GST Registration
• Bank Information (cancelled cheque)
• Address Proof
• Passport-size Photographs
• Memorandum & Articles of Association (in companies).

Step 2: Visit the CLE Website

Visit the official Council for Leather Exports site and create an account.

Step 3: Complete the Application.

Sign and fill in the Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) form with:

• Company details
• IEC Number
• Contact Information
• Export Categories

Step 4: Upload Documents

• Add the necessary certificates and identity papers.

Step 5: Make the Payment

Make the necessary membership payment online according to your category as an exporter:

• Manufacturer Exporter
• Merchant Exporter
• Service Provider in the Leather Industry.

Step 6: Receive Your RCMC

• Upon verification, the CLE also grants the Registration Cum Membership Certificate, which is valid for five years.
• This certificate is mandatory in order to access export incentives and attend CLE events.

Benefits of Registering with the Council of Leather Exports (CLE).

Enrolling with CLE gives leather exporters in India a number of significant benefits that facilitate business expansion, world market, and adherence. Some 

key benefits include:

Access to Export Incentives: The exporters get government benefits like RODTEP, duty drawback, EPCG, and other promotional schemes through CLE Membership.

Exposure to the International Markets: CLE also organises global trade fairs, buyer-seller meetings, and sourcing events where members can get a chance to connect with international buyers.

Market Intelligence: Market trends and changes are gradually evolving. CLE gives frequent updates on the market trends, price fluctuation, regulatory news, and export opportunities.

Quality and Compliance Support: Exporters are taught how to keep up to international standards, get certifications, and get CLE-enabled testing facilities.

Training & Skill Development: CLE holds workshops and training sessions in order to strengthen the technical expertise and export preparedness.

Enhanced Credibility: CLE Registration is an indication of credibility and genuineness, and exporters find it easier to gain trust among foreign consumers.

How to Export Leather from India.

The steps needed for the export of leather include the following:

1. Register Your Business

• Company registration
• IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
• GST Registration

2. Get CLE Membership

With CLE registration, you get an opportunity to access trade opportunities, incentives, and updates in the industry.

3. Ensure Product Compliance

Leather products must meet:

• Quality standards of the world.
• Environmental norms
• Testing regulations (REACH in Europe)

4. Choose Your Target Market

The leading importers of Indian leather are:

• USA
• Germany 
• Italy
• UAE
• UK
• Spain

5. Manage Exportation Records.

Common export documents are:

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Shipping bill
• Bill of lading
• Certificate of Origin
• CLE certifications (where needed)
• Insurance certificate

6. Use Government Schemes

Exporters can benefit from:

• RoDTEP
• Duty Drawback
• EPCG
• MEIS (when active)

7. Ship the Goods

Coordinate with the freight forwarders and the customs agents to facilitate shipment and clearance.

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Conclusion

The Council of Leather Exports (CLE) is an important support system for the Indian leather exporters. By assisting businesses to access overseas markets and to maintain compliance, training, as well as policy support, the CLE allows exporters to flourish steadily and competitively. Being a new businessman or an old-time manufacturer, registration at the Council of Leather Exports can greatly increase your chances in the market and grow your export profit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible to be registered by the Council for Leather Exports?
Any company, trader, merchant, exporter, or manufacturer of leather goods, footwear, garments, or accessories can be registered with CLE.

2. Are leather exporters required to be registered by CLE?
Yes, the RCMC needs CLE registration to receive the benefits of the export and attend the trade fairs supported by the government.

3. What is the duration of the CLE membership?
Membership of CLE, among others, will last five years after issue.

4. How much is the membership of CLE?
Depending on your type of exporter and the size of your company, the fee will be different. The size is usually in small, medium, and large slab sizes.

5. Does the CLE assist exporters in identifying foreign customers?
Yes. CLE arranges trade fairs, buyer-seller meetings, and promotions, which enable the exporters to meet buyers in the international market directly.