The full form of APEDA is Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, it is an Indian government organization established to promote exports of agricultural, processed food, and seafood products. Formed in December 1985 under the Ministry of Commerce, APEDA replaced the Export Inspection Council (EIC) and has since played a pivotal role in enhancing India's agricultural exports.
The primary object of APEDA is to facilitate and promote the export of agricultural and processed food products, ensuring better income opportunities for farmers and fostering economic growth. It acts as a bridge between farmers, industries, and global markets by offering strategic plans, technical guidance, and financial support.
Established in 1986 under the Ministry of Commerce and Trade, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has played an important role in promoting agricultural exports from India.
APEDA has introduced IT-enabled initiatives such as paperless offices, digital payments, mobile applications, and virtual trade fairs to streamline operations and enhance governance. Infrastructure upgrades and quality improvements have been key interventions, enabling India to export unique Geographical Indications (GI)-tagged products like Shahi litchi, Bhalia wheat, and Vazhakulam pineapple. These efforts align with the government’s "Vocal for Local" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiatives, promoting indigenous products on global platforms.
The Agriculture Export Policy of 2018 strengthened export-oriented production, farmer income, and synchronization with government programs. APEDA's focus on non-Basmati rice, which topped exports in 2022-23 at USD 4663 million, highlights its adaptability to market trends. Additionally, specialized platforms like the Millets Portal and Indian Millet Exchange promote niche products.
Functions of APEDA
1. Development of Industries: Supports industries through funding, feasibility studies, and joint ventures to ensure the growth of export-oriented agriculture and processed products.
2. Exporter Registration: Registers exporters for scheduled products upon payment of requisite fees.
3. Standardization: Establishes quality benchmarks for exportable products.
4. Inspection and Certification: Monitors meat and other products in slaughterhouses, warehouses, and processing facilities for compliance with export standards.
5. Improved Packaging: Focuses on advanced packaging solutions for scheduled products.
6. Market Research: Conducts studies to identify export opportunities and disseminates market insights.
7. Promotion of Scheduled Products: Encourages export-oriented production and advances market presence through marketing campaigns and trade fairs.
8. Data Management: Collects, publishes, and analyses statistical data on the production, handling, and export of scheduled products.
9. Policy Implementation: Engages in other related activities to enhance agricultural exports.
Composition of APEDA Authority
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is governed by a diverse group of members, each contributing expertise from various sectors. The composition of the APEDA authority includes:
1. Chairman – Appointed by the Central Government.
2. Agricultural Marketing Advisor – An ex-officio member representing the Government of India.
3. Planning Commission Representative – A member appointed by the Central Government.
4. Members of Parliament – Three members, two elected by the House of People and one by the Council of States.
5. Central Government Representatives – Eight members appointed by the Central Government, each representing different ministries, including:
-Agriculture and Rural Development
-Commerce
-Finance
-Industry
-Food
-Civil Supplies
-Civil Aviation
-Shipping and Transport
6. State and Union Territory Representatives – Five members appointed by the Central Government, rotating alphabetically across states and Union Territories.
7. Sectoral Representatives – Seven members appointed by the Central Government, representing key institutions such as:
-Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
-National Horticultural Board
-National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation
-Central Food Technological Research Institute
-Indian Institute of Packaging
-Spices Export Promotion Council
-Cashew Export Promotion Council
8. Industry Representatives – Twelve members appointed by the Central Government, representing various industries including:
-Fruit and Vegetable Products Industries
-Meat, Poultry, and Dairy Products Industries
-Other Scheduled Products Industries
-Packaging Industry
9. Specialists and Scientists – Two members appointed from fields such as agriculture, economics, and marketing of scheduled products.
Benefits of APEDA Registration
The following are some main benefits of APEDA Registration:
1. Mandatory for Exporting Scheduled Products: APEDA registration is essential for exporters dealing with scheduled products under the organization’s purview.
2. Access to Financial Assistance: Registered exporters can take advantage of various financial aid programs offered by APEDA to enhance their export operations.
3. Brand Promotion Support: APEDA aids in promoting exporters' brands through advertisements, packaging development, database updates, and market surveys.
4. Export Guidelines and Market Insights: APEDA provides valuable guidance on export procedures, product standards, and potential markets, helping exporters make informed decisions.
5. Training and Skill Development: Registered members can participate in specialized training programs organized by APEDA, helping them improve their knowledge and grow their business.
Products Monitored by APEDA
APEDA oversees the promotion and development of the following products:
-Meat and poultry products
-Fruits, vegetables, and their derivatives
-Dairy products
-Honey, jaggery, and sugar-based items
-Bakery goods, confectionery, and cocoa products
-Cereals, pulses, and oilseeds
-Herbal plants, pickles, and chutneys
-Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
-Floriculture products and Guar gum
Additionally, APEDA monitors the import of sugar and ensures compliance with related standards
APEDA Registration Process
1. Application Submission: Exporters must register within a month of starting operations. Delays can be addressed with valid reasons.
2. Fee Payment: A registration fee of Rs. 5000 (excluding taxes) can be paid via credit/debit cards or demand drafts.
3. Document Upload: Required documents include an Import-Export Code, bank certificate, account statements, and canceled cheque.
4. Verification: An OTP-based verification confirms the application details.
5. Issuance of RCMC: After approval, the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is issued, granting the exporter membership.
Step-by-Step Guide for APEDA Registration
To become a member of APEDA, applicants must complete the registration process within one month of establishing their business. Upon successful registration, the applicant is issued a Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC). Follow the steps below for a seamless registration process:
Step 1:
Visit the official APEDA website to begin the registration process.
Step 2:
Click on the option labeled "Register as Member."
Step 3:
Provide the required details, including the Import Export Code (IEC) and contact information. Submit the details to proceed.
Step 4:
An OTP will be sent to your registered email ID and mobile number for verification. Enter the OTP and click "Submit" to continue.
Step 5:
Complete the online application by filling in the necessary details and uploading the required documents in the specified formats (JPEG, PDF, or PNG).
Step 6:
Pay the registration fee of Rs. 5000 (excluding taxes) via one of the available payment methods, such as credit/debit card or demand draft.
Step 7:
After successful payment, an application number is generated. Save this number for future reference.
Step 8:
Once the RCMC is issued, login credentials will be sent to your registered email. Use these credentials to access your account by selecting the "Exporter Login" option on the APEDA homepage.
Step 9:
To track the status of your application, click on the "Track Application" option and provide the IEC along with the application number.
Step 10:
Once approved, you can download the RCMC by navigating to the "View RCMC Certificate" option under the RCMC menu.
DGFT e-RCMC Platform
Effective April 1, 2022, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) introduced a common digital platform for seamless electronic filing of RCMC. This platform simplifies the process of obtaining, amending, or renewing RCMCs, providing exporters with a single-window, contactless interface.
By leveraging APEDA's extensive support and resources, exporters can enhance their competitiveness in global markets, contributing to India's growing footprint in agricultural trade.
Conclusion
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is a statutory body established to boost and support India’s agricultural exports. Its primary goals are to foster an environment that enables Indian exporters to compete globally and to assist Indian farmers in increasing production by offering essential resources and expertise. APEDA ensures the quality and safety of a wide array of export products, including pulses, fruits, vegetables, spices, and processed foods, among others.
FAQs
1. What is the purpose of APEDA?
Ans. APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) is responsible for promoting export-oriented production and development of scheduled agricultural products. Additionally, it is tasked with monitoring the import of sugar.
2. Which ministry is APEDA under?
Ans. APEDA operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It is an apex organization tasked with promoting and developing the export of agro products from India.
3. Why is an APEDA certificate required?
Ans. APEDA registration is mandatory for exporting scheduled products. It provides exporters with access to various financial assistance programs and helps in brand promotion through advertising, packaging enhancement, database updates, and market surveys.
4. Is APEDA a government job?
Ans. APEDA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, focusing on the export development of agricultural products and processed foods. APEDA offers recruitment opportunities for various posts within its organization.
5. Who is the owner of APEDA?
Ans. APEDA is owned by the Government of India. It was established under the APEDA Act passed by Parliament in December 1985.
6. What is the validity of APEDA registration?
Ans. The Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) issued by APEDA is valid for five years from the date of issuance. The certificate is automatically renewed every five years upon submission of the required renewal fee.
