How to get Low Cost RCMC Registration in India?

What is RCMC?

RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) is a certificate issued by the Export Promotion Council (EPC) or Commodity Board of India. It is mandatory for Indian exporters who wish to avail themselves of the benefits and concessions under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) of the Government of India.

This certificate serves as proof that the exporter is registered with a specific council that deals with the product category they intend to export. It promotes transparency and streamlines the interaction between the government and businesses operating in the export sector.

Legal Framework Governing RCMC

RCMC registration is governed by:

• Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2015–2020 (now being replaced by FTP 2023)
• Handbook of Procedures issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
• Circulars issued by respective Export Promotion Councils

As per FTP, an exporter is required to register with an appropriate EPC to avail export incentives, market access support, and other benefits provided by the Government of India.

Who Needs RCMC?

RCMC is generally required by:

• Manufacturers and merchant exporters
• Export-oriented units (EOUs)
• Service exporters
• Deemed exporters
• Companies seeking export promotion incentives

However, exporters dealing exclusively in services may register with the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC). Similarly, multi-product exporters may choose to register with the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO).

Exemptions from RCMC

RCMC is not mandatory in the following cases:

• Exporters exporting goods or services not covered under any EPC/Board
• Individuals or firms that do not seek any benefit under the FTP
• 100% Export Oriented Units (EOUs) and SEZ units not claiming FTP benefits

List of Major Export Promotion Councils and Boards

Here’s a list of some prominent councils and boards from whom you can obtain RCMC:

Each council specializes in specific products and industries, helping exporters access targeted support.

Benefits of RCMC Registration

1. Access to FTP Benefits
   Avail incentives, duty drawback, and other schemes under Foreign Trade Policy.
2. Market Development Assistance (MDA)
   Get financial support for participating in trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and export delegations.
3. Policy Advocacy and Guidance
   EPCs provide valuable updates, legal assistance, and trade facilitation.
4. Credibility and Trust
   Being registered with an EPC adds credibility in the international market.
5. Export Data and Statistics
   Access to valuable market intelligence, product demand forecasts, and trade reports.
6. Capacity Building
   Get invitations to export training, webinars, certifications, and workshops.

RCMC Registration Process

Step 1: Identify the Appropriate Export Promotion Council

Choose the council relevant to your product category. For example:

• Spices → Spices Board
• Textiles → TEXPROCIL
• Multiple products → FIEO

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Typical documents include:

• IEC Certificate (Importer Exporter Code)
• PAN Card of the business
• GST Registration Certificate
• MSME Certificate (optional, for concessions)
• Address proof of business
• MOA/AOA or Partnership Deed
• Bank Certificate or cancelled cheque
• Self-certified list of products exported

Step 3: Online Application Submission

Most EPCs allow online registration through their official websites. Exporters need to:

• Fill in the application form
• Upload scanned documents
• Pay the membership and registration fee (varies by council and membership type)

Step 4: Verification and Approval

The council verifies the documents and may request clarification if needed. Once verified, the RCMC is issued digitally.

Step 5: Receive RCMC Certificate

The RCMC is issued either physically or via email. Exporters must keep a copy for future references, audits, or scheme applications.

RCMC Validity and Renewal

• RCMC is usually valid for five years from the date of issue.
• Exporters must renew the certificate before expiry to continue enjoying EPC benefits.
• Renewal involves updating the profile, payment of fees, and submission of any new documentation.

Fee Structure

The registration fee varies depending on:

• Type of membership (associate or ordinary)
• Type of organization (MSME or large-scale)
• Council policies

Example:

• FIEO: Around ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per year (subject to change)
• APEDA: ₹5,900 (including GST) one-time registration fee

Exact charges should be checked on the respective council’s official portal.

How to Choose the Right Export Promotion Council

When selecting a council:

• Evaluate the primary product or service you export.
• Review council membership benefits and services.
• Consider if multi-product registration with FIEO might be better.
• If your products span multiple categories, you may register with multiple EPCs.

RCMC and Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023

With the introduction of FTP 2023, the Government of India has made efforts to further simplify the export process. Some key highlights impacting RCMC are:

• Digitization of Registration: RCMC issuance is now integrated with the DGFT portal.
• Unified Trade Facilitation: EPCs are required to align with DGFT systems for seamless communication.
• Ease for Startups: Startups are given concessions and can benefit from simplified registration norms.
• Single Window Systems: EPCs and DGFT work in coordination for faster grievance redressal and policy support.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Registering with the wrong EPC: Ensure your product matches the council’s domain.
• Incorrect or incomplete documentation: Double-check all uploaded documents.
• Ignoring renewal: An expired RCMC may lead to disqualification from schemes.
• Not updating profile: Update any changes in address, product line, or company structure.

Tips for Smooth RCMC Registration

1. Consult a professional if you’re unsure about the correct EPC.
2. Maintain digital records of your registration and renewal.
3. Stay updated with DGFT and EPC notices to avoid missing deadlines or changes.
4. Use DGFT online portal for coordinated procedures with your IEC.

Conclusion

RCMC registration is not just a compliance formality—it is a gateway to numerous benefits that can propel your business in the international market. Whether you’re looking to expand globally, access trade incentives, or increase your business credibility, having a valid RCMC can significantly enhance your export operations.

With the Indian government’s push towards digitization, registering for RCMC has become more streamlined than ever. By following the proper process, choosing the right EPC, and staying compliant, Indian exporters can harness the full potential of the country’s robust export ecosystem.

FAQs on RCMC Registration

Q1. Is RCMC mandatory for all exporters?

RCMC is required if you want to claim benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy. If you don’t intend to avail such benefits, it is not mandatory.

Q2. Can I register with more than one EPC?

Yes, especially if you deal with multiple product categories.

Q3. What is the difference between FIEO and other EPCs?

FIEO serves multi-product exporters and offers broader membership. Other EPCs are product-specific.

Q4. What happens if I don’t renew my RCMC?

You may lose access to FTP benefits and support from your EPC until it is renewed.

Q5. Is online RCMC registration available?

Yes, most councils offer online registration and digital issuance of the certificate.