The Export Oriented Units (EOUs) scheme, introduced in early 1981, is complementary to the SEZ scheme. It adopts the same production regime but offers a wide option in locations with reference to factors like source of raw materials, ports of export, hinterland facilities, availability of technological skills, existence of an industrial base and the need for a larger area of land for the project. As on 31st December 2005, 1924 units are in operation under the EOU scheme.
Objectives of the Export oriented unit:
The main objectives of the EOU scheme is to increase exports, earn foreign exchange to the country, transfer of latest technologies stimulate direct foreign investment and to generate additional employment.
Exports from EOUs during 2004-2005 were of the order of Rs.36806.17 crores as compared to the export of Rs.28827.58 crores achieved during 2003-2004, registering a growth of 27.68%. EOU Activities
Initially, EOUs were mainly concentrated in Textiles and Yarn, Food Processing, Electronics, Chemicals, Plastics, Granites and Minerals/Ores. But now a day, EOU has extended it area of work which includes functions like manufacturing, servicing, development of software, trading, repair, remaking, reconditioning, re-engineering including making of gold/silver/platinum jewellery and articles thereof, agriculture including agro-processing, aquaculture, animal husbandry, bio-technology, floriculture, horticulture, pisiculture, viticulture, poultry, sericulture and granites.
Need for Special License
To set up an EOU for the following sectors, an EOU owner needs a special license.
* Arms and ammunition, * Explosives and allied items of defense equipment, * Defense aircraft and warships, * Atomic substances, * Narcotics and psychotropic substances and hazardous chemicals, * Distillation and brewing of alcoholic drinks, * Cigarettes/cigars and manufactured tobacco substitutes.