RCMC – Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI): Facilitating Growth in India’s Cashew Exports
Introduction
India is one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of cashew nuts and cashew-based products. The Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI) has been established by the Government of India to promote the export of cashew and its allied products, helping strengthen India’s position in the global cashew market.
One of the critical documents required by cashew exporters is the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), issued by CEPCI. This certificate enables exporters to access government export incentives, participate in promotional activities, and enhance their export business.
In this blog, we explore the role of CEPCI and the importance of RCMC, its necessity, benefits to exporters, common challenges in obtaining it, and the overall significance for India’s cashew export sector.
What is CEPCI and RCMC?
Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI)
CEPCI was constituted in 1955 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to promote cashew nuts, kernels, and allied products’ exports. The council provides support through market promotion, research, quality control, export facilitation, and policy advocacy.
CEPCI organizes international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, overseas marketing delegations, and monitors export standards to ensure India’s cashew industry maintains global competitiveness.
Why is RCMC from CEPCI Necessary?
Export Regulatory Compliance
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) mandates that exporters must hold a valid RCMC from their Export Promotion Council or Commodity Board to access export benefits legally. For cashew products, CEPCI is the designated body issuing this certificate.
Eligibility for Export Incentives
RCMC holders can avail benefits such as:
- Duty Drawback
- Market Development Assistance (MDA)
- Market Access Initiative (MAI)
- Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme
These government-funded schemes help exporters reduce costs and expand their market overseas.
Enhancing Export Credibility
An RCMC certified by CEPCI adds credibility to exporters with overseas buyers and financial institutions, facilitating smoother transactions and export finance.
Participation in Trade Promotion and Market Development Activities
Only exporters with valid RCMC can participate in CEPCI-organized international trade fairs, promotional campaigns, and export delegations which help in foreign market penetration.
Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)
The RCMC is a certificate issued by CEPCI certifying that an exporter is an authorized member registered under India’s Foreign Trade Policy. It is mandatory for exporters wanting to avail export subsidies, government incentives, or participate in trade promotion initiatives led by CEPCI.
Benefits of RCMC and CEPCI Membership
Access to Government Export Subsidies
CEPCI members with RCMC can avail financial support to offset participation costs in international exhibitions and marketing programs.
Increased Global Market Exposure
CEPCI promotes their members’ products globally through trade shows such as the World Cashew Convention, enhancing business opportunities.
Export Documentation and Compliance Assistance
The council supports exporters in obtaining vital export documentation including Certificates of Origin, helping ensure customs and buyer requirements are met.
Market Intelligence and Regulatory Updates
Members receive periodic market analysis, export trend data, tariff information, and updates on international trade regulations.
Training, Skill Development, and Quality Enhancement
CEPCI conducts workshops and seminars to improve product quality, packaging, export procedures, and global standards adherence.
Government Advocacy
CEPCI represents exporters’ interests in government discussions and policy reforms, ensuring regulatory ease and export promotion.
Challenges in Obtaining RCMC from CEPCI
Documentation Requirements
Exporters need to provide various documents, including IEC, GST, PAN, export turnover details, and company registration, which can be daunting for new exporters.
Timely Renewal and Compliance
RCMC requires five-yearly renewal with up-to-date export performance records, and delays in renewal can impact benefits.
Product Eligibility and Classification
Exporters must thoroughly understand the product categories covered under CEPCI to avoid errors that delay or reject the application.
Processing Delays
Though digitized, the verification process sometimes experiences delays due to high volume or incomplete documentation.
Conclusion
The Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) issued by the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI) is a key certification that empowers Indian cashew exporters to access government export incentives, take part in international market promotion, and enhance global competitiveness.
Despite certain challenges with documentation and renewal, the extensive benefits—including financial subsidies, trade facilitation, and industry advocacy—make the RCMC an indispensable asset for cashew exporters.
It is strongly recommended that cashew exporters obtain and maintain their RCMC from CEPCI to maximize export opportunities and achieve sustainable growth in the global cashew market.
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