(a) the details on the export policy to promote marble industry in the country;
(b) whether the Government propose to give any exemption for the import of marble in the country;
(c) if so, the reasons therefor;
(d) whether the import of marble would have adverse effect on marble industry of the country; and
(e) if so, the action taken in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY ( SHRI E.V.K.S. ELANGOVAN)
(a): Export of marble is free and does not require any licence as per export policy contained in Schedule 2 of the ITC(HS) Classification of Export & Import Items 2004-2009.
(b to e): Finished marble blocks / tiles, as covered under Chapter 68 of the ITC(HS) Classification of Export and Import Items, 2004-2009, are freely importable and do not require any licence. However, India is maintaining import restrictions on rough and crude marble. Accordingly, import of crude or roughly trimmed marble, as covered under Chapter 25 of the ITC(HS), which was earlier allowed against surrender of SIL from 1.4.1999 to 31.3.2001 with a value cap of US$ 300 per MT and above for rough marble Blocks and US$ 450 and above for slabs, has been restricted for imports from 1.4.2001. With this restriction in place, Govt. is committed to protect the interest of the domestic industry.