Rcmc Registration

The Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is a vital document for businesses engaged in importing or exporting restricted products as per the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) of India. This certificate is typically issued by various Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), Commodity Boards, and Export Development Authorities established by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for each specific category of restricted products.

Importance of RCMC

The RCMC serves as proof of an exporter’s registration with a recognized EPC, commodity board, or export development authority. It is essential for exporters seeking to benefit from concessions provided under the FTP when dealing with restricted goods.

At Compliance Calendar LLP, we specialize in assisting businesses with RCMC registration, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.

Why is RCMC Registration Necessary?

RCMC registration online is crucial for several reasons:

  1. Authorization: It provides the necessary authorization for importing or exporting products categorized as restricted under the FTP.
  2. Membership Proof: The RCMC serves as evidence of the exporter’s membership with a designated EPC, commodity board, or export development authority.
  3. Concessions Access: It is a prerequisite to avail various concessions provided under the FTP for the import and export of restricted goods.

Eligibility Criteria for RCMC Registration

Exporter or Merchandiser

Before applying for RCMC registration, an exporter or merchandiser must ensure that their business is engaged in import and export activities. Additionally, obtaining an Import Export Code (IEC) from the DGFT is mandatory.

Business Main Line Declaration

The applicant must clearly state their primary business line in the application. For example, if the focus is on coffee and tea products, they should refer to the Tea and Coffee Promotion Board. If there isn’t a specific board for the product, this should be indicated in the application.

Board Consent from FIEO

The Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO) approval is required for RCMC registration. If a specialized board doesn’t exist for a particular product, approval from FIEO must be sought.

Benefits of RCMC Registration

Securing an RCMC offers numerous advantages:

  1. Access to Export Promotion Schemes: RCMC is mandatory for availing various government export promotion schemes such as Duty Drawback, Merchandise Export from India Scheme (MEIS), and Market Access Initiative (MAI).
  2. Facilitated Import and Export: The certificate streamlines the process of importing and exporting restricted goods by validating the authenticity of the exporter and their products.
  3. Easier Customs Clearance: With an RCMC, customs procedures become more efficient, saving time and reducing complexity for exporters.
  4. Enhanced Credibility: Holding an RCMC enhances an exporter’s credibility, demonstrating compliance with government regulations.
  5. Access to Market Information: Registered exporters receive updates and information about market trends and developments through programs organized by EPCs and Commodity Boards.

Registering Authorities for RCMC

The DGFT has empowered various authorities to issue RCMC certificates, including:

  • Export Promotion Councils: These councils promote specific product categories. India has 27 EPCs authorized to issue RCMC.
  • Commodity Boards: There are six commodity boards responsible for particular agricultural and processed products.
  • Development Authorities: Two development authorities also facilitate RCMC registration.

List of Key Authorities

  • Export Promotion Councils:
    • Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
    • Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC)
    • Basic Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics Export Promotion Council (CHEMEXCIL)
    • Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC)
    • Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), among others.
  • Commodity Boards:
    • Coir Board
    • Coffee Board
    • Rubber Board
    • Spices Board
  • Development Authorities:
    • Electronics Industries Development of India (ELCID)
    • National Centre for Trade Information (NCTI)

If a product does not fall under any specific board, exporters can obtain RCMC from FIEO. Additionally, for multi-product exporters, the Shellac & Forest Products Export Promotion Council is another option.

Documents Required for RCMC Registration

When applying for RCMC, certain documents must accompany the application:

  1. IEC Number: Issued by the regional licensing authority.
  2. PAN: A Permanent Account Number issued by the competent authority.
  3. Memorandum of Association (MOA): Required for corporate entities.
  4. Partnership Deed: A self-certified copy is necessary for partnerships.
  5. Trust Deed: For trusts or institutional entities.
  6. Registered Office Certificate: From the Registrar of Companies.
  7. Foreign Exchange Earnings Data: Certified by a chartered accountant for the past three years.
  8. Board Resolution or Power of Attorney: If applicable.
  9. GST Registration Certificate: As proof of business registration.

RCMC Registration Procedure

The DGFT has introduced the e-RCMC module as part of its digital transformation efforts. This platform offers a streamlined, electronic solution for RCMC-related processes, making it easier for businesses to obtain their certificates.

Steps for Online RCMC Registration

  1. Visit the DGFT Website: Access the e-RCMC module.
  2. Register: Create an account by providing necessary details like IE Code, email ID, and mobile number.
  3. Verification: Receive a One Time Password (OTP) to verify your account.
  4. Application Form: Complete the online application and upload the required documents in specified formats (JPEG, PDF, PNG).
  5. Payment: Pay the registration fee of Rs. 5,000 (excluding taxes) through various modes like credit/debit cards or demand drafts.
  6. Application Number: After payment, an application number will be generated for tracking.
  7. Tracking: You can track the status of your application using the provided application number and IE Code.
  8. Approval and Certificate Issuance: Once approved, the RCMC can be downloaded from your account.

Validity of RCMC

The RCMC remains valid from its issuance date on April 1st of the licensing year and is effective for five years, expiring on March 31st of the following year.

Compliance with RCMC

Compliance with RCMC regulations is mandatory for exporters who want to engage in various government programs related to exports. Key compliance requirements include:

Renewal of RCMC

The RCMC is valid for five years, necessitating timely renewal to avoid lapses in compliance.

Adherence to Export-Import Policy

Exporters must follow the guidelines and conditions set forth in the export-import policy related to RCMC.

Submission of Annual Export Data

Exporters are required to submit their annual export data to the DGFT, with non-compliance leading to potential penalties.

Compliance with Customs Regulations

Adhering to customs regulations is critical for exporters, as non-compliance can result in penalties and legal repercussions.

Foreign Trade Regulations

Exporters must comply with regulations related to export control, sanctions, and embargoes.

Quality Standards Compliance

It is essential to meet the quality standards specified by importing countries to ensure successful exports.

Record Maintenance

Exporters should maintain comprehensive records of their export transactions, adhering to DGFT record-keeping requirements.

How Compliance Calendar LLP Can Assist You?

At Compliance Calendar LLP, we understand the complexities involved in RCMC registration. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive support throughout the registration process, ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations.

Our Services Include:

  • Consultation: Expert advice on RCMC requirements and procedures.
  • Document Preparation: Assistance with compiling and preparing the necessary documentation.
  • Online Application Filing: Efficient filing of applications through the DGFT e-RCMC module.
  • Status Tracking: Ongoing support to monitor the application status and respond to any queries from authorities.
  • Renewal Services: Help with RCMC renewals to ensure uninterrupted compliance.

Note: The Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is an essential component for exporters looking to navigate the complexities of international trade. With its role in authorizing exports, providing access to promotional schemes, and enhancing credibility, obtaining RCMC should be a priority for businesses in the export sector.

For seamless and efficient RCMC registration, look no further than Compliance Calendar LLP. Our expertise and commitment to client satisfaction ensure that you can focus on what you do best—growing your business—while we handle the regulatory requirements. Contact us today to get started!

Have Queries? Talk to us!

  

Frequently Asked Questions

RCMC stands for Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate. It is an essential document for exporters and importers dealing with restricted products under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) of India. It serves as proof of registration with an Export Promotion Council (EPC), Commodity Board, or Export Development Authority.

RCMC is mandatory for accessing various government export promotion schemes, facilitating customs clearance, and validating an exporter’s authenticity when dealing with restricted goods. It enhances the credibility of the exporter and provides access to important market information.

Any exporter or merchant engaged in import and export activities can apply for RCMC. This includes businesses in various sectors, as long as they have obtained an Import Export Code (IEC) from the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

To be eligible for RCMC registration, applicants must:

  • Have an IEC from the DGFT.
  • Clearly declare their main business line.
  • Obtain necessary board consent from the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO) if applicable.

Required documents include:

  • IEC number
  • PAN (Permanent Account Number)
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA) for companies
  • Partnership deed for partnerships
  • Trust deed for trusts
  • GST registration certificate
  • Financial statements as required

You can apply for RCMC online through the DGFT’s e-RCMC module. The process involves creating an account, submitting necessary details, uploading required documents, and making the registration fee payment.

If you do not renew your RCMC within the stipulated time, you may lose access to export promotion schemes, and your ability to engage in exporting activities could be affected. Renewal is necessary to maintain compliance.

Yes, if your product does not fall under any specific Export Promotion Council or Commodity Board, you can obtain RCMC from the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO). They can assist you with the registration process for multi-product exporters.