Permitted Activities for Liaison Office in India | Complete List

Overview : This article strives to provide a thorough understanding of the permissible activities for a foreign company's Liaison office in India. It aims to support foreign companies that intend to set up a Liaison office in India by offering insights into the legal activities they can undertake. Additionally, it emphasises the regulations and limitations that govern branch offices and guides on making informed decisions to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

Foreign companies can benefit from establishing a liaison office in India to gain access to a booming consumer market and a wide range of opportunities. The Foreign Exchange Management Regulations (2016)and The Master Direction (RBI/FED/2015-16/6, FED Master Direction No.10/2015-16) issued by the Reserve Bank of India provide guidelines for permitted activities of liaison offices. Foreign companies often establish a Liaison Office (LO) in India as a channel to explore and understand the Indian market. These offices are prohibited from commercial, trading, or industrial activities. Instead, their role is primarily limited to:

Market Research : Liaison Offices have the advantage of being able to gather information about the market in which they operate. They can provide their parent company with valuable insights and analysis of business trends, competitor activity, and consumer behaviour by conducting thorough research.
Promoting Export/Import : Businesses can expand their reach and increase revenue through international trade by facilitating potential exports from and imports to the parent company. This can also lead to new partnerships and opportunities for growth. It’s a valuable strategy for companies looking to increase their global presence and competitiveness.
Promoting Technical/Financial Collaborations : Liaison Officers (LOs) can facilitate technical and financial collaborations between Indian companies and their parent entities. By leveraging their expertise and knowledge, LOs act as a bridge between different entities, helping them to work together and achieve common goals. Their efforts can result in new opportunities for mutual growth and collaboration, creating a win-win situation for all parties involved.
Acting as a Communication Channel : Serving as a communication bridge between the Indian market and the parent company is a crucial function of these offices.

Conclusion

It is important to understand that any activities conducted by foreign entities in India must comply with the guidelines issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) regulations. Liaison Offices serve as a useful strategic tool for foreign entities that wish to explore the Indian market without engaging in direct business transactions. These offices can provide valuable insights and connections to help establish a foothold in the vast Indian economy.