Understanding of the DGFT Portal for RCMC Certificate Approval

To overtake the highly recognized export businesses in international markets, the other small-level organizations need to seek support from the government. To make every exporter successful in competitive markets, the Indian government provides support through schemes, incentives, and benefits. These parameters are widely expanded and promote Indian exports worldwide. That’s where the exporters are required to apply online for the Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC). However, when applying for the certification, understanding the features and role of the DGFT portal is crucial. Let’s break it down to know how the DGFT portal helps to obtain a license for RCMC, DGFT services, and online applications. 

What is DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade)?

Under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) is a recognized Indian government agency. In India, DGFT is responsible for administering India’s foreign trade policies as well as promoting exports internationally. It acts as a licensing-issuing agency for the Indian exporters and importers. 

The breakdown of DFGT’s key functions:

• Develops and Implements FTP: The role of DGFT is to carefully develop the policies related to India’s foreign trade for exporters. 
• Grants License and IEC: It is also an authority for issuing the license to top exporters, importers, and businesses. In addition, businesses that engage in foreign trade register with DGFT for an IEC (Import Export Code) number. 
• Foster Indian Exports: To promote Indian exports internationally, DGFT, with RCMC, introduces valuable trade incentives and schemes. 
• Provides Assistance: By highlighting the supportable guidelines, it offers assistance to exporters and importers. It guides on numerous trade-related matters.
• Monitors Trade Operations: The agency is responsible for regulating the import-export operations as well as managing export obligations. 

What is the DGFT Service for RCMC Certificate Approval?

For the e-RCMC (Electronic Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) application, the DGFT portal serves as the single digital platform. The portal is used for RCMC license applications, document submissions, and identification for exporters. The major roles of the DGFT portal for the approval of export registration certificates are:

The Benefits of Using the DGFT Service Portal

Since the digital platform took the place of physical application submission, the registration is smooth. Meanwhile, using the DGFT service is advantageous for many reasons, which include:

• There is no need to file the manual submissions, as traders can apply for IEC or other export-import licenses on a single portal.
• The DGFT portal accepts the DSC (Digital Signature Certificate), which is a trustworthy certificate to ensure authenticity and integrity. Through the portal, transactions become secure and streamlined with the help of DSC.
• With the real-time update, individuals and businesses can track their application status. 
• The portal provides valuable information related to the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), as well as access to government-supported incentives and schemes.
• By offering skills and awareness, the portal service encourages cross-border e-commerce. 
• On the DGFT portal, the small and new export businesses can take guidance and support with the Niryat Bandhu Scheme.

How to Use the DGFT Portal for RCMC Renewal?

If exporters are very familiar with the RCMC registration process, it is further important to know the importance of certificate renewal. The RCMC certificate, which is applied for through the DGFT portal, is valid for a certain period. Here is a step-by-step guide for the renewal of the registration-cum-membership certificate:

Step 1: Visit to DGFT Portal

Navigate the DGFT portal and complete the login requirements. 

Step 2: Link IEC Number

In case the exporter’s IEC code is not linked to the service portal, use the DSC or E-Sign to link it,

Step 3: Start Application

Visit the option to apply for renewal of RCMC. To continue with an existing one, select draft or start a fresh application.

Step 4: Choose RCMC & Verify

Select the existing RCMC number or the relevant Export Promotion Council (EPC). Verify the firm’s information before proceeding.

Step 5: Complete Renewal Information

Select the right EPC or commodity board that you were selected for during initial registration. Required details are:

1. Years’ number when the membership is obtained
2. Application’s financial year.
3. Firm’s MSME Status
4. Annual Export Turnover

Step 6: Upload supported Documents

The previous year’s annual performance report (APR) or self-certified letter is required to submit a document for proof.

Step 7: Pay the fee and Application Submission

To pay the renewal application fee, use net banking, debit card, UPI, or credit card. Before application submission, recheck all the details.

Note: Visit DGFT’s eRCMC customs service portal to find more detailed instructions.

Winding Up | RCMC Certificate Apply Online Through DGFT

The DGFT portal, which is the single window, streamlines all export-import-related registration issues. The physical application hurdles turned into online registration by using a single portal. Individuals, businesses, exporters, importers, and EPC use the DGFT portal for RCMC application submission. Apart from issuing the certificate of RCMC, it further assists exporters/importers for trade promotion internationally. Are the requirements of the DGFT portal service still creating a barrier for you? LegalRaasta, a legal consulting agency, helps individuals and businesses with every type of certificate registration. Get your RCMC certificate in a short duration with our professional guidance. 

Still Have Queries? Go Through Our Discussion Section

1. What is the role of DGFT?

Ans. To promote Indian exports and make them more transparent, DGFT formulates and implements the foreign trade policies. 

2. Who issues the RCMC certificate in India?

Ans. The license of RCMC in India is granted by the EPCs, commodity boards, development authorities, and other competent organizations. 

3. What are the prerequisites for the  RCMC application?

Ans. To apply for RCMC, the exporters are required to have an active Import-Export Code (IEC), a linked DSC token, or an Aadhar e-Sign for application submission.

4. What is the EPCG scheme?

Ans. The objective of the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme is to develop the import of capital goods. It encourages the production of standard quality goods and services as well as the promotion of Indian manufacturing.

5. What is the RCMC certificate renewal cost?

Ans. Renewal cost depends on the EPC or other export authority. If an exporter renews the CEPC membership certificate, they are required to pay Rs 7,080.