DTI simplifies export marketing assistance rules

THE DEPARTMENT of Trade & Industry has implemented a new set of rules for the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (Emia) scheme designed to make it more accessible and to improve administrative efficiency. • Marketing and business plans are no longer required when applying for Emia funding for group missions and national pavilions. The adjudication committee may however request these if they need help in making a final decision on the application. • Airfare benefits for outward-bound missions and national pavilions have been increased to R13 000 for HDI/ SMMEs and R6 500 for others. • Airfare quotations are no longer required with EMIA Group Outward Bound Mission applications and the maximum benefit will be approved. Approved participants are however still responsible for booking and paying for their air tickets through one of Emia’s Preferred Service Providers. They are then required to submit proof of payment of the total cost with the Emia claim for reimbursement. • The daily allowance for an export/investment conference or seminar attendance has been increased to R900 per day for a maximum of three days. Further details of the changes are available from the dti.