RoDTEP Scheme: Introduction of RODTEP Benefit for Rice Exports 2024

In a significant move to bolster agricultural competitiveness, the Government of India has extended the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme benefits to include the rice sector. This development aims to offset various embedded taxes and levies that were previously not refunded, thereby providing a more level playing field for Indian rice exporters in the international market. ## What this means for exporters Under the new guidelines, exporters of both Basmati and Non-Basmati rice (subject to current export policies) can claim remissions as a percentage of the FOB value. To avail of these benefits, it is mandatory for exporters to make a specific declaration in their Shipping Bills. As per the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's latest roadmap, the credit is issued in the form of transferable electronic scrips which can be used to pay basic customs duty on imports or sold in the open market. Exporters must ensure that their systems are updated to include the correct RoDTEP claim codes during the filing of the Shipping Bill on the ICEGATE portal. Retrospective claims are generally not permitted, so accuracy at the time of filing is paramount. This move is expected to improve the liquidity of rice exporters and help them navigate the rising costs of logistics and raw material procurement.