RCMC – AYUSH Export Promotion Council: Promoting India’s Traditional Healthcare Exports Globally
Introduction
India’s traditional healthcare systems, encompassing Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (collectively known as AYUSH), have garnered significant global interest for their holistic healing approaches. To structure and boost exports in this vibrant sector, the Government of India constituted the AYUSH Export Promotion Council (AYUSH EPC), aiming to promote India’s diverse healthcare products and services internationally.
Obtaining the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) from AYUSH EPC is essential for exporters to access government subsidies, participate in trade promotion initiatives, and achieve international credibility.
This blog explains the significance of AYUSH EPC and the RCMC certification, including why it is needed, benefits it offers, challenges in obtaining it, and why it is crucial for sustainable export growth.
What is AYUSH Export Promotion Council and RCMC?
AYUSH Export Promotion Council (AYUSH EPC)
AYUSH EPC is an export promotion council established under the Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. It represents exporters of Ayurvedic medicines, herbal products, yoga services, and other traditional healthcare commodities. The council facilitates market development, policy advocacy, quality assurance, and international trade promotion to enhance India’s AYUSH exports.
Why is RCMC from AYUSH Export Promotion Council Necessary?
Compliance with DGFT Regulations
DGFT requires exporters to obtain registration and RCMC from the relevant Export Promotion Council as a statutory requirement to avail export incentives. For AYUSH products and services, AYUSH EPC is the designated export body.
Access to Export Incentives and Subsidies
An RCMC allows exporters to benefit from schemes such as:
- Market Access Initiative (MAI)
- Market Development Assistance (MDA)
- Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG)
- Duty Drawbacks and Remission of Duties
These programs support exporters in offsetting export expenses, enhancing their competitive position globally.
Establishing Market Credibility
The RCMC from AYUSH EPC authenticates exporters in the international marketplace, promoting trust with foreign buyers, regulatory agencies, and financial institutions.
Eligibility for Trade Promotion and Market Development
Only exporters with a valid RCMC can participate in council-organized trade fairs, export delegations, buyer-seller meets, and promotional events aiding in market penetration and networking.
Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)
The RCMC issued by AYUSH EPC certifies an exporter’s registration as a legitimate member under India’s Foreign Trade Policy. This certificate is mandatory for exporters seeking benefits under government schemes, participation in international trade fairs, and eligibility for export-related subsidies.
Benefits of RCMC and AYUSH EPC Membership
Eligibility for Government Export Benefits
RCMC holders access financial subsidies reducing cost burdens associated with global market outreach and trade facilitation.
Participation in International Trade Events
Members benefit from organized representation at international healthcare and wellness trade shows, such as AYUSH Expo and Wellness Asia, promoting products globally.
Export Documentation and Compliance Assistance
AYUSH EPC facilitates the issuance of export certifications, including GMP compliance certificates, Certificates of Origin, and documentation required for smooth customs clearance.
Market Intelligence and Regulatory Updates
Members receive regular insights on international regulatory changes, market trends, and buyer preferences essential for strategic export planning.
Capacity Building and Training Programs
AYUSH EPC conducts workshops on export procedures, quality certifications, labeling requirements, and international standards to upgrade exporter capabilities.
Policy Advocacy and Industry Representation
AYUSH EPC engages with government and international agencies to promote favorable trade policies and remove procedural bottlenecks for AYUSH exporters.
Challenges in Obtaining RCMC from AYUSH Export Promotion Council
Documentation and Regulatory Compliance
Exporters must provide detailed documents including IEC, export licenses, GMP certifications, quality assurances, and financial statements, which can be complex especially for new exporters.
Timely Renewal and Monitoring
RCMC requires renewal every five years. Failure to renew or disrupted export performance could lead to suspension of membership and benefits.
Product Eligibility and Sector Classification
Verification of product eligibility under AYUSH categories is critical; incorrect categorization may delay registration or cause rejection.
Processing Delays
Although largely digital, verification processes can cause delays in certification issuance affecting exporter participation in trade activities.
Conclusion
The Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) issued by the AYUSH Export Promotion Council is a foundational credential empowering exporters of traditional Indian healthcare products and services. It provides access to government export schemes, assures international buyer confidence, and promotes participation in global trade promotion events.
While challenges in documentation, renewal, and processing exist, the substantial benefits and facilitation services make RCMC indispensable for AYUSH exporters aiming to thrive globally.
Indian AYUSH exporters should prioritize securing and renewing their RCMC from the AYUSH EPC to leverage export incentives, achieve market expansion, and maintain leadership in the international traditional healthcare sector.
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