Council for Leather Exports (CLE)

What is Council for Leather Exports (CLE) ?

The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) is an autonomous export promotion organization established by the Government of India under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The main objective of the Council for Leather Exports is to promote, support, and develop the Indian leather industry in international markets.

The Council for Leather Exports helps leather manufacturers, exporters, merchants, and businesses involved in leather products to expand globally by providing export guidance, certifications, trade opportunities, and government scheme assistance.

The CLE is recognized by the Government of India and plays a major role in promoting exports of:

1. Finished Leather
2. Leather Footwear
3. Leather Garments
4. Leather Goods
5. Saddlery & Harness
6. Non-Leather Footwear Components
7. Fashion Accessories

Businesses engaged in leather exports often require Council for Leather Exports Registration to obtain benefits under export promotion schemes and international trade opportunities.

Why Council for Leather Exports is Necessary?

Obtaining a Council for Leather Exports Registration Certificate (RCMC) is important for businesses involved in leather exports because it provides legal recognition and export-related advantages.

Importance of Council for Leather Exports Registration

1. Required for Export Promotion Benefits

CLE Registration is necessary to claim benefits under government export schemes like:

1. RoDTEP Scheme
2. Duty Drawback
3. Export Incentives
4. DGFT Benefits

2. Helps in International Trade Expansion

The Council for Leather Exports supports Indian exporters by connecting them with global buyers and international trade fairs.

3. Builds Business Credibility

A registered exporter gains trust among international clients, importers, and government authorities.

4. Required for RCMC Certificate

Businesses involved in leather exports often need an RCMC Certificate issued by CLE for DGFT-related activities.

5. Access to Trade Exhibitions

CLE members can participate in:

1. International Leather Trade Shows
2. Buyer-Seller Meets
3. Export Promotion Events

Who Can Apply for Council for Leather Exports?

Any individual, company, or business entity engaged in leather manufacturing or export activities can apply for Council for Leather Exports Registration.

Eligible Applicants

1. Proprietorship Firms
2. Partnership Firms
3. LLPs
4. Private Limited Companies
5. Public Limited Companies
6. Merchant Exporters
7. Manufacturer Exporters
8. Leather Product Manufacturers
9. Footwear Exporters
10. Leather Goods Exporters

Businesses dealing in the following products are eligible:

1. Leather Bags
2. Leather Shoes
3. Leather Belts
4. Leather Jackets
5. Saddlery Products
6. Leather Accessories

Various Types of Council for Leather Exports

The Council for Leather Exports offers different categories of membership depending on the business nature.

Types of CLE Membership

1. Merchant Exporter Membership

For businesses exporting leather products purchased from manufacturers.

2. Manufacturer Exporter Membership

For businesses manufacturing and exporting leather goods directly.

3. Associate Membership

For companies associated with the leather industry but not directly exporting.

4. Ordinary Membership

For established exporters involved in leather export activities.

5. RCMC Registration

Registration Cum Membership Certificate required for export-related benefits.

Information Included in Council for Leather Exports Certificate

The Council for Leather Exports Registration Certificate generally includes:

1. Name of Business
2. IEC Code
3. Business Address
4. Nature of Business
5. Membership Number
6. Registration Date
7. Product Category
8. Validity Details
9. Authorized Signatory Details

This certificate acts as proof of registration under the Council for Leather Exports.

Council for Leather Exports Procedure

Step-by-Step CLE Registration Process

Step 1: Obtain IEC Code

Applicants must first obtain an Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents related to business registration and export activities.

Step 3: Submit Online Application

Apply for Council for Leather Exports Registration through the official process.

Step 4: Document Verification

Authorities verify submitted business and export documents.

Step 5: Fee Payment

Pay applicable membership and registration fees.

Step 6: Issuance of CLE Certificate

After approval, the Council for Leather Exports issues the RCMC Certificate.

Does Council for Leather Exports Need Renewal?

Yes, the Council for Leather Exports Registration may require renewal depending on the membership category and validity period issued by the authority.

Businesses should renew their CLE Membership on time to continue enjoying export benefits and maintain active exporter status.

Failure to renew the certificate may result in:

1. Loss of export benefits
2. Inactive membership
3. Issues in DGFT compliance
4. Problems claiming export incentives

Required Documents for Council for Leather Exports

The following documents are generally required for CLE Registration:

1. Import Export Code (IEC)
2. PAN Card of Business
3. GST Registration Certificate
4. Business Registration Proof
5. Partnership Deed / MOA / AOA
6. Address Proof of Business
7. Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque
8. Passport Size Photograph
9. Export Product Details
10. Digital Signature (if applicable)

Benefits of Council for Leather Exports

1. Government Export Benefits

Access to export incentives and financial assistance schemes.

2. International Market Exposure

Participation in global exhibitions and buyer meets.

3. Export Business Growth

Helps businesses expand internationally.

4. Trade Support Services

Guidance related to export documentation, compliance, and regulations.

5. Better Brand Reputation

Improves trust and credibility in foreign markets.

6. Networking Opportunities

Connect with international buyers and exporters.

Common Errors to Avoid 

Businesses often face delays due to incorrect applications or missing details.

1. Incorrect IEC Details

Mismatch in IEC information can lead to rejection.

2. Wrong Business Category

Selecting incorrect exporter category causes processing delays.

3. Incomplete Documents

Missing GST, PAN, or address proof may result in application rejection.

4. Delayed Renewal

Failure to renew membership on time may suspend benefits.

5. Incorrect Product Details

Applicants should mention accurate leather product categories.

Why Choose KSV for Council for Leather Exports?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Council for Leather Exports Registration?

It is a government-recognized export promotion registration for businesses involved in leather exports.

2. Is CLE Registration mandatory?

It is generally required for obtaining RCMC and export promotion benefits.

3. Who issues CLE Certificate?

The Council for Leather Exports issues the registration certificate.

4. Can proprietorship firms apply for CLE Registration?

Yes, proprietorship firms involved in leather exports can apply.

5. Is IEC mandatory for CLE Registration?

Yes, Import Export Code is usually required.

6. What is the validity of CLE Membership?

Validity depends on the membership type and authority guidelines.

7. How long does CLE Registration take?

The timeline depends on document verification and application processing.

8. Can I apply online for Council for Leather Exports?

Yes, the registration process can be completed online.

9. What products are covered under CLE?

Leather footwear, bags, garments, saddlery, belts, wallets, and other leather products.

10. Why choose professional consultants for CLE Registration?

Professional consultants help avoid errors and ensure faster approval.