Sohamma International Pvt. Ltd (SIPL) is One of the Leading professional Advisory and Consultancy firm specializing in Export – Import Incentives and related services. The company plays a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the complex landscape of international trade. Sohamma, is a One Stop Solution for all your Export Import Incentives and allied services. Sohamma, has a team of experienced and Committed staff with an experience of more than a decade, offering end to end services with its Head office in Mumbai, India.

With over 31 years of experience in the field of export-import incentives consultancy, we have established ourselves as a trusted partner for businesses, navigating the complexities of international trade. Sohamma, is an ISO 9001-2015 certified Company registered with MSMED Act of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. Sohamma is currently offering wide range of Exim services to more than 160 Organisations. The company offers expert guidance on incentive schemes, ensuring compliance, and offering strategic insights, thus helping clients optimize their operations, reduce the costs, and remain competitive in the global marketplace. Sohamma has presence in Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Kandla, Chennai, Bangalore.

Sohamma International Pvt. Ltd. (SIPL) – Your Trusted Partner for Export-Import Incentives & Consultancy

Sohamma International Pvt. Ltd. (SIPL) is a leading professional advisory and consultancy firm specializing in Export-Import Incentives and allied services. Established in 2001 by Ramesh Chavan, Sohamma has built a reputation as a trusted partner, assisting businesses in navigating the complexities of international trade and maximizing their benefits under various EXIM policies.

With an ISO 9001-2015 certification and registration under the MSMED Act, we ensure compliance, efficiency, and cost optimization for our clients. Our end-to-end services empower exporters and importers to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance global competitiveness.

Whether you’re an exporter seeking Duty Drawback, a manufacturer importing machinery under EPCG, or importing Rawmaterial under Advance Authorisation, a business struggling with customs clearance, Sohamma is your One-Stop Solution for hassle-free trade incentives.

💡 Did you file shipping bills under the Free Scheme? You may be eligible for Duty Drawback! Contact us to claim your refunds before it’s too late!

Our Commitment to Excellence

• 🌍 Proven Track Record – 24 years of consistent service delivery.
• 🏢 Comprehensive Clientele – 500+ reputed manufacturers, MNCs, and service providers
• 📜 Compliance & Quality Assurance – Adhering to national & international standards

At Sohamma, we don’t just offer services—we offer strategic solutions that drive your business forward.

🔹 Maximize Incentives. Optimize Costs. Expand Globally.

📞 Get in Touch Today!

📍 Registered Office: 209, Hariom Plaza, M.G. Road, Borivali (East), Mumbai – 400066
🌐 Website: www.sohamma.com
📩 Email: ramesh@sohamma.com
📲 Call/WhatsApp: 9821610509 / 9324610494

📢 Follow us for the latest updates on export-import incentives! #ExportIncentives #DGFT #Customs #SohammaConsulting #GlobalTrade

DGFT Consultancy Services – Expert Guidance for Your Export-Import Success

Sohamma International Pvt. Ltd. (SIPL) offers professional DGFT consultancy services to help businesses navigate complex export-import regulations. Our experts assist in obtaining licenses, authorizations, and incentives under various DGFT schemes, ensuring compliance with government policies.

We specialize in EPCG, Advance Authorisation, Duty Drawback, Policy Relaxation, Customs Clearance of Capital Goods and more, helping businesses maximize their export benefits. Our consultancy ensures smooth documentation, application filing, and compliance management, reducing delays and penalties.

Our Mumbai-headquartered firm serves clients across Delhi, Pune, Kandla, Chennai, and Bangalore.

Partner with us to simplify your DGFT processes and unlock maximum export incentives effortlessly! Get in touch today! Visit www.sohamma.com for expert assistance.

EPCG Scheme – A Game Changer for Manufacturers

The Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme is a government initiative under the Foreign Trade Policy that allows manufacturers to import capital goods at zero customs duty, provided they fulfill an export obligation.This scheme is designed to enhance India’s manufacturing competitiveness by reducing production costs and boosting exports.

How EPCG Scheme Benefits Manufacturers?

• Duty-Free Imports: : Manufacturers can import New machinery, equipment, and technology without paying customs duty, reducing capital investment costs.
• Cost Reduction:: Eliminating duty on capital goods lowers production costs, making Indian products more competitive in global markets.
• Technology Upgradation: Enables manufacturers to adopt advanced technology, improving productivity and product quality.
• Boost to Exports: Helps businesses expand globally by making products cost-effective and export-friendly.
• Improved Cash Flow: Saves upfront costs on capital goods, allowing better allocation of financial resources.

DGFT IEC CODE – Get Your Import Export Code (IEC) with Ease!

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory 10-digit business identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It is essential for any business engaged in import or export activities in India. Without an IEC, businesses cannot clear shipments, receive export incentives, or conduct international trade transactions.

Why Do You Need an IEC Code?

• Mandatory for Import & Export: Required for customs clearance of goods and international financial transactions.
• Global Market Access: Enables businesses to expand internationally and establish trade relations.
• Availing Export Benefits: Helps businesses claim DGFT incentives and duty exemptions and other Government benefits.
• Facilitates International Payments: Required to receive foreign remittances against exports.
• No Business Restrictions: IEC is valid for a lifetime and can be used for multiple import-export transactions.

Key Features of Sohamma’s IEC Code Services

• Hassle-Free IEC Registration: End-to-end support in applying, modifying, or renewing IEC.
• Fast Processing: Get your IEC within a few working days with minimal paperwork.
• Compliance & Documentation Support: Ensuring your application meets DGFT requirements to avoid delays.
• Modification & Update Services: Assistance in updating company details, bank details, or ownership changes.
• Lost IEC Retrieval:strong> Support in re-issuing lost IEC certificates.
• Legal & Advisory Support:strong> Guidance on customs, trade compliance, and DGFT policies.

V) DGFT Restricted Items List for Export

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) regulates the export of certain items from India by categorizing them as Restricted. Exporting these items requires obtaining a specific license from the DGFT.

Understanding Restricted Items:

• Definition: Items that necessitate an export license due to concerns related to national security, conservation of resources, or international agreements.
• Examples: Live animals, certain seeds, rare minerals, specific chemicals, and high-tech equipment.

How to Identify Restricted Items:

DGFT's ITC (HS) Classification: The DGFT provides a detailed list of restricted items in the Indian Trade Classification (Harmonized System). You can access this list on the DGFT's official website.dgft.gov.in.

Consultancy Services for Exporting Restricted Items:

Navigating the export regulations for restricted items can be complex. Professional consultancy services can assist exporters in:

• License Application: Guiding through the process of obtaining the necessary export licenses from the DGFT.
• Compliance Assurance: : Ensuring adherence to all regulatory requirements to prevent legal complications.
• Documentation Support: Assisting in the preparation and management of required documentation for a seamless export process.

VI) SCOMET Items License

Why is an SCOMET License Required?

The SCOMET (Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies) License is required for the export of sensitive and dual-use items that have potential military or strategic applications. These items are regulated under India's Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) to ensure they are not misused and comply with global non-proliferation commitments.

Who Needs an SCOMET License?

• Exporters dealing in high-tech electronics, chemicals, aerospace, defense equipment, nuclear materials, software, and cybersecurity tools.
• Manufacturers of specialized machinery, UAVs, aerospace components, and sensitive technology.
• R&D firms, biotech companies, and pharma industries exporting dual-use biological materials.

Key Reasons for Requiring an SCOMET License:

• Legal Compliance: It is mandatory under DGFT regulations for exporters dealing with strategic and sensitive goods.
• Prevention of Misuse: Ensures that dual-use items (civilian & military applications) are not diverted to unauthorized users.
• National Security & Global Non-Proliferation: Helps prevent proliferation of weapons and sensitive technology.
• International Trade Compliance: Aligns with India's commitments to Wassenaar Arrangement, MTCR, NSG, and other global treaties.
• Avoids Penalties & Export Restrictions: Exporting without an SCOMET license can lead to heavy penalties, blacklisting, and legal action.
• Market Expansion: Enables businesses to legally export high-tech, defense, and strategic goods to authorized countries.

VII) Restricted / Negative Licenses, DGFT, Delhi

The Restricted/Negative License is required for the export of items that are listed as restricted under the Indian Trade Classification (ITC-HS) Export Policy by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Delhi. These items cannot be freely exported and require special authorization from the DGFT.

Reasons for Requiring a Restricted/Negative License:

• Regulatory Compliance: Exporting restricted items without approval is illegal and can result in penalties, seizure of goods, and blacklisting.
• National Security & Strategic Control: Ensures that sensitive items, technologies, and strategic materials are not misused or diverted to unauthorized destinations.
• Protection of Domestic Resources: Some items are restricted to prevent depletion of natural resources, like certain minerals, wood, or agricultural products.
• Environmental & Health Safety: Certain chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and biological materials require licensing to prevent ecological damage or public health risks.
• International Treaty Obligations: India is a member of global agreements like Wassenaar Arrangement, MTCR, and NSG, which require controlled exports of strategic goods.
• Dual-Use Goods Control (SCOMET Items): Goods with both civilian and military applications fall under SCOMET regulations, requiring DGFT approval before export.

Examples of Restricted/Negative Items:

• Pharmaceuticals & Chemicals – Narcotics, ozone-depleting substances, certain industrial chemicals.
• Metals & Ores – Iron ore, rare earth materials, specific raw metals.
• Agricultural Products – Certain seeds, wheat, rice, sugar, and organic products.
• Defense & High-Tech Equipment – UAVs, drones, radars, encryption software.
• SCOMET Listed Items – Electronics, biotechnology products, nuclear-grade materials.

VIII) Benefits of Buying and Selling Transferable Licenses for Exporters

Transferable Licenses under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) allow exporters to trade their unutilized duty exemption benefits with other businesses. These licenses help both buyers and sellers optimize costs and enhance profitability in international trade.

Benefits for Buyers (Importers/Manufacturers):

• Cost Savings on Imports: Buyers can purchase transferable licenses at a discounted rate to avail duty exemptions on imports, reducing procurement costs.
• No Need for Direct Export Obligations: Importers can enjoy the benefits of duty-free imports without having to meet export obligations themselves.

Benefits for Sellers (Exporters with Unused Licenses):

• Monetization of Unused Benefits: Exporters who cannot fully utilize their duty exemption licenses can sell them for cash, ensuring they don’t go to waste.
• Immediate Revenue Generation: Selling licenses converts government incentives into direct financial gains, improving cash flow.

Why Choose Sohamma for License Trading?

• Expert Matching: We connect buyers and sellers of transferable licenses for maximum mutual benefit.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring secure and DGFT-approved transactions with complete documentation.

IX) Policy Relaxation Committee, EPCG Committee DGFT, Delhi

The Policy Relaxation Committee (PRC) under the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is responsible for granting exemptions, waivers, and relaxations in cases where exporters face difficulties in fulfilling certain provisions of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP).

Exporters require PRC services when they need special approvals for non-compliance issues, procedural difficulties, or unforeseen challenges in meeting their export obligations eg: Extension of Export Obligation Period/ Waiver of Penalties & Composition Fees/ Amendments /Conversion of Free Shipping Bills to Duty Drawback Shipping Bills / Revalidation of Expired Licenses / Relaxation in Import Conditions.

How Sohamma Can Help with PRC Applications?

• Expert Representation at PRC Meetings – We ensure a strong case presentation for the best possible outcome.
• Hassle-Free Application Processing – Complete documentation, justification drafting, and DGFT follow-ups.
• Penalty Reduction & Exemption Support – Helping exporters reduce costs and avoid legal complications.

X) Ratification of Adhoc Norms – How It Benefits Exporters

Ratification of Adhoc Norms by DGFT, Delhi is a crucial process that helps exporters who need to import raw materials under the Advance Authorisation Scheme (AAS) but whose products do not have standard Input-Output norms (SION) predefined by DGFT.

This process allows exporters to get customized duty-free import permissions based on their specific manufacturing requirements.Ensures proper approval and compliance, reducing the risk of penalties or rejections from DGFT and customs authorities. Once ratified, the norms can be used for multiple future consignments, reducing paperwork and approval time.

How Sohamma Can Help with Adhoc Norms Ratification?

• Application & Documentation Support / Fast-Track Approval Process / import-to-export input calculations / Compliance & Follow-ups.

XI) Duty Drawback Scheme – A Key Incentive for Exporters

The Duty Drawback Scheme is a government export incentive that allows exporters to claim a refund on customs and excise duties paid on imported raw materials or inputs used in manufacturing export goods. This scheme is aimed at enhancing India’s export competitiveness by reducing production costs. Helps exporters reduce production costs, making Indian goods more competitive in global markets / Enhances Cash Flow. Benefits textiles, leather, engineering, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, automotive, electronics, and more.

Why Choose Sohamma for Duty Drawback Assistance?

• End-to-End Claim Filing – Ensuring smooth application and fast refund processing.
• Error-Free Documentation – Avoiding rejections and delays in claim approval.
• Custom Duty Drawback Advisory – Helping exporters maximize refunds under the right scheme.

XII) Customs Clearance of New and Second-Hand Capital Goods on Merits / EPCG scheme:

Why Importers & Exporters Should Use Sohamma’s Customs Clearance Services for New & Second-Hand Capital Goods Under Merits / EPCG Scheme

Importing capital goods (new or second-hand) involves complex customs regulations, compliance requirements, and duty benefits under various schemes like EPCG (Export Promotion Capital Goods) and Merits (General Customs Tariff Exemptions). Sohamma International Pvt. Ltd. offers expert customs clearance services to help businesses reduce import costs, ensure compliance, and expedite clearance processes.

Key Reasons to Use Sohamma’s Customs Clearance Services

• - Hassle-Free Clearance of New & Second-Hand Machines
• - Expertise in EPCG Scheme Benefits
• - Maximizing Cost Savings Through Merits / General Tariff Exemptions
• - Regulatory Compliance & Documentation Assistance
• - Assistance with Second-Hand Machinery Imports, including obtaining necessary import approvals, Chartered Engineer Certification (CEC), and DGFT permissions.
• - Support for High-Value Capital Goods Imports, industrial machinery, manufacturing equipment, or specialized tools.
• - Guidance on Import Duties, Tariffs & Exemptions /applicable duty structures / GST applicability / and concessional benefits to help businesses plan imports efficiently.
• - End-to-End Import Process Management From IEC registration, import licensing, documentation, duty calculations, and clearance, Sohamma provides a one-stop solution for importers.
• - Post-Clearance Support & Compliance Advisory. Assistance in tracking and claiming post-import EPCG benefits, ensuring businesses comply with export obligations under DGFT norms.

BIS – Is BIS Blocking the Road to "Make in India"?

Let’s talk about something, quietly but significantly affecting India’s industrial and export backbone: BIS – the Bureau of Indian Standards. Originally introduced to ensure quality, consumer safety, and manufacturing credibility, BIS was a welcome initiative. But today, for many within India’s export-import and industrial manufacturing community, it’s increasingly viewed as a barrier—not a benchmark.

I) The Ground Reality

Reputed Indian manufacturers rely on importing special-grade steel and components to manufacture high-precision export products. But with BIS now expanding its list of mandatory certified products, especially in the steel sector, even routine imports have become a regulatory maze.

II) Challenges Faced by Importers

• First, importers must apply under the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS).
• The foreign supplier must have BIS certification OR the Indian importer must seek special permission from the Ministry.
• No official, dynamic, or publicly accessible list of BIS-covered items.
• The process lacks transparency. Even experienced importers are unsure whether a product requires BIS clearance.
• Approvals can take months—factories sit idle, projects are delayed, and production schedules collapse.
• BIS is applied uniformly across both B2C and B2B domains.
• For products not manufactured in India, who will define BIS standards?

III) Lack of Clarity: Example – Imports of Nuts and Bolts

Let’s consider the case of importing nuts and bolts for manufacturing. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued an order dated 12th July 2024 concerning bolts and nuts. It provides a 3-year exemption from BIS requirements for manufacturers, subject to:

• Maintain year-wise records of imported goods and articles,
• Provide this record to the Government on company letterhead signed by an authorized signatory,
• Submit a plan for indigenization of these goods to the Central Government.

But this order raises more questions:

• When must the plan for indigenization be submitted—immediately or after 3 years?
• What is the format of submission?
• Which authority must it be sent to?

This ambiguity leads to confusion, department back-and-forth, and ultimately, production delays.

IV) Sufferings of the Industry Due to BIS

What’s at stake?

• Idle capital equipment
• Missed delivery deadlines
• Cancelled export orders
• Erosion of market competitiveness
• Long-term risk of losing global contracts
• Frustration within the industry
• In extreme cases: Sick industries crippled not by competition, but by compliance bottlenecks

V) The Solution

BIS is being applied uniformly across both B2C and B2B domains—which is not practical.

BIS is essential for:

• Toys
• Consumer electronics
• Household appliances

But for B2B manufacturing, the Government should explore the following exemptions:

• If foreign suppliers already hold international certifications (ISO, ASTM, CE)
• If the imported raw material is unavailable in India in the required grade/specification
• If the imported raw material is used in manufacturing end-products approved by domestic buyers and made by ISO-certified Indian manufacturers

Also, the Government should consider:

• Transparent product lists directly linked to Customs Tariff headings
• Defined and reasonable timelines for BIS certification approvals
• Simplified procedures for self-declarations and indigenization plans with clear formats and nodal officer details

Conclusion

What is the true objective of BIS? If it's to build trust and raise standards, it must evolve to support India's ambition to be a global manufacturing hub—not restrict it.

Policy should serve industry growth, not become its enemy. India’s manufacturers take loans, create jobs, bring in foreign exchange, and support Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. But rigid and unclear policies slow down the very sectors that strengthen our economy.