Introduction
India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing exporters of goods and services across global markets. With initiatives like Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes, Indian exporters are increasingly looking to expand their international presence.
However, to take advantage of export incentives, duty exemptions, and promotional schemes offered by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, exporters must obtain a Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC).
The RCMC is issued by Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) or Commodity Boards and acts as a mandatory registration document under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP). It certifies that an exporter is registered with the relevant council and is eligible to avail government benefits, participate in trade fairs, and seek export promotion assistance.
In this article, we provide a complete guide to RCMC Registration — its applicability, issuing authorities, process, benefits, compliance, penalties for non-registration, and how RegistrationMART can simplify the process for exporters.
1. Legal Framework of RCMC
- Governed by: Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2015–2020 (extended until revised FTP 2023–28).
- Issuing Authority: Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), Commodity Boards, Development Authorities recognized by DGFT.
- Legal Reference: Para 2.55 of FTP – mandatory registration with relevant EPC to avail benefits.
👉 Without an RCMC, exporters cannot claim duty drawback, RoDTEP, MEIS/SEIS, or PLI incentives.
2. Applicability of RCMC
Who Needs an RCMC?
- Manufacturer Exporters
- Merchant Exporters
- Service Exporters (IT, consultancy, logistics, education, etc.)
- Multi-Product Exporters
- Deemed Exporters
When RCMC is Mandatory?
- To claim benefits under Customs, Excise, and DGFT schemes.
- For recognition as an Authorized Exporter.
- To participate in international exhibitions and EPC trade delegations.
- For MAI & MDA scheme assistance.
3. Issuing Authorities for RCMC
There are over 35 EPCs and Boards authorized to issue RCMCs. Some key examples:
- APEDA: Agricultural & processed foods, dairy, meat.
- FIEO: Multi-product exporters.
- Chemexcil: Chemicals, dyes, cosmetics.
- EEPC India: Engineering goods.
- GJEPC: Gems & jewellery.
- Texprocil: Cotton textiles.
- Coir Board, Tea Board, Coffee Board, Spices Board, Rubber Board etc.
👉 Exporters must select the EPC based on their main business line.
4. Validity of RCMC
- Valid for 5 years from 1st April of licensing year.
- Must be renewed after expiry for continued benefits.
- Validity linked with EPC membership.
5. Benefits of RCMC Registration
- Eligibility for export incentives.
- Participation in trade fairs.
- Access to market intelligence.
- Government support under MAI/MDA schemes.
- Credibility and recognition as a registered exporter.
- Networking opportunities with buyers & agencies.
- Support in trade dispute resolution.
6. Process of Obtaining RCMC
- Identify Relevant EPC/Board – choose based on product/service.
- Prepare Documentation – IEC and business documents.
- Application Filing – via DGFT portal or EPC website.
- Document Verification – EPC verifies IEC and details.
- Grant of RCMC – valid for 5 years.
7. Documents Required
- IEC Certificate
- PAN card
- GST Registration
- Incorporation Certificate / Partnership Deed
- MOA & AOA (for companies)
- Exporter’s Bank Certificate
- List of directors/partners/proprietor
- MSME registration (if applicable)
- Export product list
8. Types of RCMC Registration
- Manufacturer Exporter RCMC
- Merchant Exporter RCMC
- Service Exporter RCMC
- Multi-Product Exporter RCMC (via FIEO)
9. RCMC and DGFT Schemes
RCMC is essential for claiming DGFT benefits:
- RoDTEP Scheme
- EPCG Scheme
- Advance Authorization Scheme
- Export Incentive Schemes (MEIS/SEIS)
- PLI Scheme Benefits
10. Renewal of RCMC
- Apply before expiry to EPC.
- Pay membership fee.
- Submit updated documents (GST, IEC, PAN, export data).
- Ensures uninterrupted benefits.
11. Consequences of Non-Compliance
- No eligibility for export incentives.
- Restricted participation in EPC trade fairs.
- Difficulty in buyer-seller meets.
- Rejection of subsidy claims.
- Reduced credibility in international markets.
12. Common Challenges in RCMC Registration
- Selecting the correct EPC.
- Maintaining EPC membership compliance.
- Documentation errors.
- Approval delays from EPCs.
- Confusion for multi-line exporters.
13. How RegistrationMART Helps
RegistrationMART provides end-to-end support:
- Identify the correct EPC/Board.
- Prepare & submit documents online.
- Coordinate with EPC for faster approvals.
- Handle renewals & EPC compliance.
- Assist in claiming DGFT incentives.
- Advisory support on FTP compliance.
Conclusion
In international trade, compliance is as important as competitiveness. For Indian exporters, obtaining an RCMC is not just a formality — it is a gateway to government incentives, market opportunities, and global recognition.
Whether you are a manufacturer, merchant, or service exporter, RCMC ensures official recognition and growth opportunities. By maintaining proper compliance, exporters can unlock incentives, participate in trade events, and strengthen India’s global presence.
At RegistrationMART, we help exporters manage the entire RCMC process with ease — from selecting the right EPC to registration, renewal, and maximizing benefits.
