Jaipur, Rajasthan

WTC Jaipur in association with FORHEX (The Federation of Rajasthan Handicraft Exporters), Jaipur organized a session in Doing business in Africa by Mr. Sunil Mody, President, R.B.Mody & Co., Mumbai.

The session was attended by Jaipur’s major exporters in art and handicraft’s and there was a lot of interest generated in exploring the continent by sending representative to various countries for event and exhibitions and exploring opportunities in importing various commodities as raw materials for further processing and value additions. It was observed during the program that majority participants are exporting globally but could not make insight in Africa as they were not knowing the contact due to lack of expert advice. Hence this program served as essential ice breaker that led to a meaningful dialogue that has paved way to a series of country specific programs in Africa.

Mr. Mody said there are 35 countries that has immense potential to trade in various products . He said “Timber, handicrafts and furniture manufacturing are the areas that needs mention and has to be studied in right perspective . On the top the most important thing is to decide the product one would like to export to the continent , in which part , manage the branding and pricing. Most important is the freight and logistics cost that if now worked properly could itself become more than the value of shipment. Local taxes needs to be studies and language is specific to each country .”

Mr. Mody further educated the participants about the eating habits and availability of vegetarian diet as most Indians are keen on it . He said vaccination on yellow fever is still a necessity in some countries. He advised many participants on trade practices for importing timber and other commodities that has value addition possibilities in Rajasthan and discussed various countries where this processed output could be exported on a continuous basis.

Understanding the interest, Mr. Navneet Agarwal, Asst. Director WTC Jaipur informed the participants that a full day MDP program could be organized on the subject which could provide in-depth insight on the country and how to access this market. Mr. Navneet also proposed the vote of thanks.

In the pic :Mr. Sunil Mody, President, R.B.Mody & Co., Mumbai addressing the participants