With Increasing demand in new and traditional markets, handicrafts exports will soar by about 10 per cent to Rs 23,560 crore in 2016-17.

Rakesh Kumar, ED of Exports Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) said that demand in regions like the US, Europe, Latin America and Middle East is growing and it will help in recording a healthy growth figures in exports.

During the period from April - September 2016, the exports reported a growth of 18.25 per cent year-on-year to Rs 13,005.35 crore.

The promotional efforts being undertaken towards enhancing our exports in these markets would certainly result in increase in exports not only in the traditional markets but also in the emerging markets. This year, we are targeting the export figure of Rs Rs 23,560 crore.

To boost the exports, the council has sought enhanced duty benefits for the sector, he said.

Talking about compliance issues in the sector, he said the council is taking lead in this direction by creating awareness through various seminars and other means.

Further the council is participating in 30-35 exhibitions and fairs abroad every year to promote the items in global markets.

"These participations remain both in traditional and not- traditional markets for Indian handicrafts. The participation in exhibition abroad is very much necessary to create awareness, brand image of the sector and to secure business for the sector," he added.