How to Choose the Right Export Promotion Council for Your RCMC?

Overview 

At the global stage, the Indian export activities have taken a vital place. The contribution stems from regular support by the Indian government, which establishes schemes and incentives for exporters. However, before accessing these schemes and benefits, the primary requirement is to obtain the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate. Meanwhile, the successful registration for the RCMC certificate depends on the documents and the right Export Promotion Council or Commodity Board. Choosing EPC is the primary process that issues the certificate to exporters. A minor mistake while selecting the right EPCs can lead to application rejection, including loss of benefits. How can you select the right export promotion council for your business? In this guide, we will explore the route for choosing EPC, a complete export guide.

Why Do Export Promotion Councils Matter for RCMC Certificates?

Under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), EPCs (Export Promotion Councils) are recognized organizations. The core work of these organizations, which fall under EPCs, is to promote and monetize exports in India for specific categories such as agriculture. Typically, these organizations support the exporters by issuing them membership and promoting their goods or services in international markets. In India, EPCs themselves are responsible for providing the export registration certificate. The export businesses that want to access the export-supported scheme and incentives must be registered with the relevant authority. In this situation, the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate becomes essential. Certificate approval is the gateway to gaining identity in international markets. 

What is the Importance of Choosing the Right EPC?

EPCs are a major part for exporters. But have you ever explored why selecting an accurate EPC is beneficial? Choosing EPC creates the difference between a business thriving and missing out on opportunities. Here are a few reasons that determine why choosing the right export council is important:

• Eligibility for Benefits: Every EPC is categorized according to the specific product or service promotion. It means each export promotion council provides different schemes and benefits. By selecting the right council, the exporters can access schemes like ‘Duty Drawbacks.’ 
• Industry Expertise: Being part of a specific sector means they can only give valuable advice for a specific field. Even different export councils provide different export guidance and assistance, including resources. 
• Networking Opportunities: To promote many international customers, most of the Export Promotion Councils offer platforms of support and networking. You want to use these networking platforms for a fast-growing business to develop relationships with industry professionals.
• Training and Workshops: By selecting the right council, exporters can be part of training, programs, and workshops that are only offered by specific EPCs. Utilizing these workshops and seminars is critical to understanding export regulations. 

Other Blog: RCMC Application Form ANF-2C for Export Promotion

Step-by-Step Guide: Select Accurate EPCs

In the previous discussion, we mentioned why selecting the right EPC is crucial. Let’s break down how the exporters can select an appropriate export promotion council. 

Step 1: Determine Export Product Line

Which types of services or goods are you managing for international trade? Clearly define the primary goods or services that you want to export. You have to make sure that your goods match the EPC’s requirements. 

Step 2: Review Appendix 2T 

You must go online to the DGFT’s website and go to Appendix 2T. Appendix 2T has an exhaustive list of all the EPCs that are recognized and their product category. 

Step 3: Review Product/Service 

In Appendix 2T, visit those Export Promotion Councils that are knowledgeable in your category of product. For example, if you are dealing with software products exportation, register with the Electronic and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC). 

Step 4: Choose  FIEO for Multi-Products

In case the exporter is dealing with multiple products, it doesn’t require registering with each separate EPC. FIEO is the recognized authority that manages those category products that don’t fall under EPC and Commodity Boards.

Step 5: Authority in Specialized Cases

• Service Export Promotion Council (SEPC): It is active for the services of IT, consulting, education, and healthcare. If an exporter deals with these services, they must register with SEPC.
• Commodity Boards: This authority or board manages the six major category products. If you are exporting tea from India, you must register with the Indian Tea Board.

Understand the Cost of Membership with EPC’s Customer Support

Different EPCs have different membership cost requirements. To get the RCMC certification, registration with the relevant authority is mandatory. To activate the membership for a long time, specific EPCs require an annual membership fee. However, the cost depends on the category of council and the exporter’s business size. By getting membership in government-managed export development programs, the businesses can utilize the subsidies. Another benefit of it is that exporters can get membership at low discounts.

How Many Different Types of Memberships are there? 

Numerous memberships depend on the business’s scale and experience. Furthermore, the businesses that fall under this category typically register with EPC or Commodity Boards. Here is the breakdown of six major membership types: 

Final Thoughts | Export Guide for Choosing EPC in India

Before the RCMC approval, selecting an appropriate EPC that aligns with the export products category is essential. Choosing the right export promotion council is a strategic move to grow business. In the complex foreign environment, EPCs play a vital role by supporting and promoting the products or services. From the membership, exporters gain valuable support, benefits, and help to enhance credibility. Get the RCMC registration consultancy to know how you can access government schemes and benefits to increase your industry network. 

Still have questions? Browse our FAQs or contact support.

1. Are RCMCs & EPCs the same thing? 

Ans. No, RCMC itself is a primary certificate; meanwhile, Export Promotion Councils are a recognized organization. EPC is responsible for issuing the certificate to exporters.

2. How many export promotion councils are there in India?

Ans. As per the current updates, there are 14 EPCs who are active for the promotion of specific category products or services.

3. Which types of industries register with SEPC?

Ans. The export business deals with IT & ITES, financial services, tourism & hospitality, healthcare, legal services, and many more.

4. Is getting the certificate of RCMC mandatory for all types of exporters?

Ans. Generally, no, it is not mandatory to obtain the RCMC certificate. However, if export businesses want to access the government-supported schemes, incentives, and subsidies, then registration is compulsory.

5. Can I change the EPC after securing the RCMC registration certificate?

Ans. Yes, it is possible to change the EPC’s membership even after obtaining the certificate. However, for this, the exporter is required to file an amendment request through the DGFT portal.