If you think the IEC registration is enough for your imports and exports.
You are missing out a crucial step in compliance.
Here’s why.
What is IEC?
Import Export Code (IEC) is a unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to businesses engaged in import and export activities.
For businesses undertaking activities where IEC is required, it is a key requirement for carrying out international trade and accessing applicable benefits under India’s foreign trade framework.
But getting your IEC does not necessarily mean your export-related compliance is complete.
There’s more to check.
Where Does RCMC Come In?
Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is issued by the relevant Export Promotion Council (EPC) or commodity board, depending on the products you export and the applicable export framework.
While IEC identifies your business for international trade, RCMC connects your export activities with the relevant export promotion body.
For certain exporters, RCMC can also be relevant when applying for specific export benefits, schemes or services, subject to the applicable rules.
The relevant RCMC depends on the products you export and the export promotion body responsible for that product category.
India has multiple Export Promotion Councils and commodity boards, each covering specific product sectors and export interests.
So, having an IEC is only the starting point. The next question is:
Does your product and export activity require an RCMC?
Which RCMC Applies to Your Business?
RCMC is not a one-size-fits-all registration.
The relevant registration depends on what you export and which export promotion body covers your product category.
For example, exporters may need registrations or memberships with bodies such as:
- APEDA — Agricultural and Processed Food Products
- Spices Board — Spices and related products
- EEPC India — Engineering products
- MPEDA — Marine products
- PLEX — Plastic and plastic products
- Rubber Board — Rubber products
- Tea Board — Tea
- Tobacco Board — Tobacco products
- WWEPC — Wool and woollen products
- APEC — Apparel
- CAPEXIL — Chemical and allied products
- CEPC — Carpets
- Coconut Development Board — Coconut products
- Coffee Board — Coffee
- Coir Board — Coir products
- EPCH — Handicrafts
- GJEPC — Gems and jewellery
- HEPC — Handloom products
- IOPEPC — Indian Oilseeds and Produce Export Promotion Council
- ISEPC — Indian Silk Export Promotion Council
That’s why simply having an IEC does not answer the entire compliance question.
Where does ARKCA Corporate come into the scene?
From the above information, it is understandable that an IEC alone is not enough, nor is RCMC a simple documentation process. This calls for expert guidance.
And that is where ARKCA Corporate shines.
From IEC Registration and Compliance to RCMC assistance, ARKCA supports businesses in navigating their import-export compliance requirements.
Whether you need assistance identifying the relevant Export Promotion Council, preparing documents, or completing the application process, ARKCA provides personalized compliance guidance and document support.
Want to learn more about your export and import requirements? Talk to ARKCA Corporate Today!
