✅ Introduction to RCMC Certificate
If you are an exporter in India, obtaining an RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) is often a mandatory step to avail export benefits and incentives from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Export Promotion Councils (EPCs). This certificate is essential under the Foreign Trade Policy of India, and ensures that your business is recognized as a registered exporter.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to apply for RCMC online, the documents required, the eligibility criteria, and how to choose the right Export Promotion Council based on your product or service category.
🔍 What is an RCMC Certificate?
RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) is a registration issued by the Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), Commodity Boards, or Authorities to exporters or manufacturers intending to export products from India. It serves as proof that the exporter is registered with the respective EPC and is eligible for various benefits under foreign trade policies.
🎯 Who Needs an RCMC Certificate?
You need to apply for an RCMC if:
- You want to avail incentives, subsidies, or benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP)
- You’re an exporter of goods or services
- You are registering with DGFT and applying for an IEC (Importer Exporter Code) or already have one
- You want to participate in international trade fairs via EPCs
- Note: In some sectors like service exports or multi-product exports, the choice of council may vary. You must register with the appropriate council based on your export category.
- 📋 Documents Required for RCMC Registration
- Here’s a checklist of documents typically needed for RCMC registration:
- Copy of PAN Card of the company
- GST Registration Certificate
- IEC Certificate issued by DGFT
- Company Incorporation Certificate / Partnership Deed
- Board Resolution / Power of Attorney authorizing the applicant
- List of Directors/Partners
- Export Turnover Declaration (in some cases)
- Bank Certificate or cancelled cheque
- Self-certified copy of MOA and AOA (for companies)
- Product list with HS Codes you intend to export
- 🏢 How to Choose the Right Export Promotion Council
- There are around 26 Export Promotion Councils in India under different sectors such as:
- EEPC – Engineering products
- APEDA – Agricultural and processed food products
- FIEO – Multi-product exporters
- GJEPC – Gem and Jewellery
- CHEMEXCIL – Chemicals and allied products
- SEPC – Service exporters
- Tip: If you deal with multiple product categories or services, registering with FIEO (Federation of Indian Export Organisations) is a good option.
- 🖥️ How to Apply for RCMC Certificate Online – Step-by-Step
- You can apply for an RCMC online through the respective Export Promotion Council’s website or via the DGFT portal if integrated.
- Step 1: Identify the Relevant EPC
- Visit the DGFT EPC list and identify the EPC relevant to your product or service.
- Step 2: Register on the EPC Website
- Most councils require you to create an account on their official website before proceeding. For example:
- APEDA: www.apeda.gov.in
- FIEO: www.fieo.org
- Step 3: Fill in the Application Form
- Provide the following details:
- Company details
- IEC number
- Export product details
- Authorized person’s information
- Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Scan and upload all the required documents listed above.
- Step 5: Pay the Registration Fee
- The fee varies from council to council and can range from ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 annually, depending on the type of business.
- Step 6: Submit the Application
- After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment. The EPC will verify your details.
- Step 7: Receive the RCMC Certificate
- Once approved, the certificate will be sent via email or available to download from your account dashboard.
- 📅 Validity of RCMC Certificate
- The RCMC is typically valid for 5 years from the date of issue. After expiry, you need to renew it by submitting updated documents and paying the renewal fee.
- 📌 Key Benefits of RCMC Certificate
- ✅ Eligibility for export benefits under DGFT schemes
✅ Participation in global trade fairs and buyer-seller meets
✅ Access to market intelligence and trade data from EPCs
✅ Recognition and support for MSMEs and startups
✅ Easier application for other schemes like RoDTEP, MEIS, etc.
- ⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete or outdated documents
- Choosing the wrong EPC for your product
- Ignoring renewal deadlines
- Providing incorrect HS Codes of products
- 🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- ❓Is RCMC mandatory for exporters?
- Yes, if you want to avail benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy or schemes from DGFT.
- ❓Can I register with more than one EPC?
- Only if you are exporting products that fall under multiple sectors. Otherwise, you must choose only one EPC.
- ❓Can I apply for RCMC without IEC?
- No. IEC (Importer Exporter Code) is mandatory before applying for RCMC.
- ❓How long does it take to get the RCMC?
- It usually takes 5–10 working days, depending on the council and document verification process.
- 📞 Need Help with RCMC Registration?
- If you're facing difficulty in registering for your RCMC or choosing the right EPC, we can assist you with end-to-end RCMC application support.
- 👉 Contact Us today to get your RCMC Certificate quickly and hassle-free!
- 🔑 Conclusion
- An RCMC certificate is a crucial document for Indian exporters seeking to grow their business globally. With the right knowledge, documents, and process, you can easily obtain your RCMC online and unlock new trade opportunities. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth and successful RCMC registration in 2025.
