RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) is an essential authorization for Indian exporters and importers. This certificate is granted by respective Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) or Commodity Boards and is mandatory to claim benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy. Here’s a detailed overview of RCMC registration.
RCMC Registration - Complete Information Guide
What is RCMC?
RCMC refers to the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate, issued to entities involved in the international trade of goods or services. It is provided by the designated Export Promotion Council (EPC) or Commodity Board, recognized by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
Purpose:
The certificate acts as a formal registration with a specific EPC, enabling traders to benefit from various schemes, subsidies, and incentives offered by the Indian government.
Example:
A company dealing in garment exports must obtain RCMC from the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC). For engineering exports, registration is needed from the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC India).
Who is Required to Obtain RCMC?
RCMC must be obtained by:
- Importers and exporters aiming to receive advantages under Foreign Trade Policy.
- Businesses that intend to take part in incentive programs, international trade expos, or government-backed schemes.
- MSMEs applying under schemes managed by DGFT and the Ministry of MSME.
Example:
A small-scale exporter dealing in organic spices from Kerala would require RCMC from the Spices Board of India to receive benefits under the RoDTEP scheme.
Types of Export Promotion Bodies / Authorities
Depending on the specific commodity or service, the RCMC is granted by one of the following councils or boards:
| Category of Goods / Services | Concerned Council / Authority |
|---|---|
| Handicrafts | Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) |
| Spices | Spices Board of India |
| Engineering Items | EEPC India |
| Apparel and Textiles | AEPC (Apparel Export Promotion Council) |
| Medicines & Pharma | Pharmexcil |
| Agricultural Products | APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) |
| IT and Software Exports | ESC (Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council) |
Required Documents for RCMC Application
Here is a common list of documents required for obtaining an RCMC:
- Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT
- PAN Card of the business entity
- GST Registration Certificate
- Certificate of Incorporation or proof of establishment
- Board Resolution/Authorization Letter for the person signing the application
- Bank Certificate or cancelled cheque leaf
- List of products intended for export
- Details of promoters/directors/partners/proprietor
- Membership Application Form of the relevant council
Example:
A sole proprietorship exporting leather items will need to provide the IEC, GST number, and a filled application form from the Council for Leather Exports (CLE).
How to Apply for RCMC – Step-by-Step Process
Below is a simplified step-by-step guide to the registration process:
1. Select the Correct Export Promotion Council
Choose the council based on your primary product or service.
2. Collect Necessary Documents
Ensure you have all the required documents ready in scanned format.
3. Submit Application Online or Offline
Visit the official portal of the respective council (e.g., www.epch.in, www.apeda.gov.in).
4. Complete the Application Form
Enter your IEC, business details, export product category, etc.
5. Make the Fee Payment
The application fee differs depending on the chosen council and your business size (like MSME or large enterprise).
6. Verification and Issuance
The submitted documents will be verified by the council. Once verified, you will receive the RCMC.
RCMC Validity Period
- The RCMC is generally valid for a 5-year period from the issue date.
- It is necessary to renew it after expiry to continue enjoying government benefits.
Example:
If you received your RCMC from AEPC on 1st April 2023, it will remain valid until 31st March 2028.
Advantages of Holding RCMC
Possessing an RCMC offers several key advantages for export businesses:
Eligibility for Government Schemes:
Apply for benefits under schemes like MEIS, RoDTEP, SEIS, etc.
Participation in Global Trade Events:
Join international trade shows and buyer-seller meets supported by the government.
Export Development Assistance:
Get access to market insights, trade data, and expert support.
Better Coordination with Trade Authorities:
Gain official recognition from trade regulators and ministries.
Claim Promotional Grants:
Avail subsidies for branding, logistics, packaging, and promotion.
Key Tips for RCMC Applicants
- Register with the most suitable export council according to your product line.
- Ensure your RCMC is current and renewed before expiry.
- If you deal in multiple product categories, you can register with the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO).