PANAJI

Goan exporters are not consistent in their export efforts, according to the local office of the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

Speaking at an export facilitation seminar on Tuesday, Ramesh Holeyachi, deputy director general, DGFT- Goa, said that, export from Goa fluctuates in volumes despite the number of registered exporters increasing over the years.

He said that more locals are entering export-import business and are trying their hand at selling good overseas but are facing difficulty in bagging repeat orders. Export of handicrafts and processed foods are especially erratic, he said. The seminar organised by the World Trade Centre- Goa office at EDC House was attended by Meenakshi Gad, deputy general manager, RBI and officials from WTC. Its purpose was to create awareness about government schemes to boost exports and encourage budding exporters.

Goa primarily exports iron ore, cashew nuts and marine products. The state's export basket is getting diversified lately but the diversification is at a slow pace and erratic, according to the information divulged by DGFT. In India's overall exports valued at approximately US$ 240 billion, the contribution from Goa is miniscule 0.7 per cent.

On the other hand, Goa is a significant earner of foreign currency although its contribution to the country's overall export basket is low. The high inflow of foreign currency is on account of tourism, it was pointed out. Speaking to participants, Gad, said that, Goa despite its small size has the distinction of having 970 companies receiving FDI.

Simplification of procedures, online filing of documents and paperless trade are some of the measures suggested to encourage Goan exports.