RCMC – Coconut Development Board: Supporting India’s Coconut Exports
Introduction
India is one of the leading producers of coconuts, and the export of coconut products such as copra, coir, coconut oil, and desiccated coconut plays a vital role in the rural economy and foreign exchange earnings. The Coconut Development Board (CDB) is the nodal agency under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare dedicated to the promotion and development of the coconut industry, including exports.
For exporters in the coconut sector, obtaining the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) from CDB is essential to avail of government export incentives and participate in international trade promotion activities.
This blog aims to explain what the Coconut Development Board and RCMC are, the necessity for obtaining RCMC, the benefits available to coconut exporters, the challenges faced in acquiring RCMC, and the conclusion emphasizing the importance of RCMC for India’s coconut exports.
What is the Coconut Development Board and RCMC?
Coconut Development Board (CDB)
The Coconut Development Board was established in 1981 with the mission to promote integrated development of coconut cultivation and industry in India. It functions to improve productivity, enhance marketing, and promote export of coconut and its by-products. The board conducts research, provides training, executes technology dissemination programs, and coordinates with state governments to develop the coconut industry.
Why is RCMC from Coconut Development Board Necessary?
Regulatory Compliance
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) mandates that exporters obtain RCMC certification from the relevant Export Promotion Council or Board to be eligible for export benefits under Indian trade policies. For coconut product exporters, CDB is the designated authority.
Access to Export Incentives
Only exporters with a valid RCMC from CDB can avail government export incentives such as duty drawbacks, market promotion assistance, and export finance support.
Increasing Exporter Credibility
Possession of RCMC boosts exporters’ credibility with overseas buyers and financial institutions, simplifying export transactions and gaining trust in international markets.
Eligibility for Trade Fair Participation
RCMC holders are entitled to participate in government-supported trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and export promotion delegations organized or endorsed by CDB.
Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)
The RCMC is a regulatory certificate issued by the Coconut Development Board certifying that an exporter is registered under India’s Foreign Trade Policy. This certificate is a mandatory requirement for exporters to access export incentives, subsidies, and trade facilitation schemes administered through the board.
Benefits of RCMC and Coconut Development Board Registration
Access to Export Subsidies and Promotional Support
RCMC holders gain subsidies and financial assistance to offset costs related to international exhibitions and marketing efforts, enhancing global market reach.
Enhanced Participation in International Trade Fairs
The board organizes and facilitates participation in major global events focused on coconuts and related products, increasing visibility and opportunities.
Assistance for Export Documentation and Compliance
CDB helps exporters with export documentation, certification, and adherence to international standards ensuring smooth customs clearance and buyer satisfaction.
Market Intelligence and Research Reports
Members receive updates on global demand trends, trade policies, and tariff changes critical for export planning.
Capacity Building and Training Programs
CDB conducts training on quality improvement, packaging technologies, and compliance with international regulations to empower exporters.
Government Representation and Policy Advocacy
The board represents the interests of coconut exporters in government forums, shaping export policies and regulatory frameworks conducive to industry growth.
Challenges in Obtaining RCMC from Coconut Development Board
Documentation Challenges
Preparing and submitting necessary documentation like IEC, PAN, GST, export proof, and business registration certificates might be challenging especially for new exporters.
Renewal and Compliance Management
The RCMC must be renewed periodically, and exporters must maintain appropriate export performance and documentation to continue benefiting.
Clarification on Export Product Categories
Exporters must clearly identify and classify their products under the coconut and coconut products category to avoid delays or application rejection.
Potential Processing Delays
Application verification and administrative processing might cause delays, though most procedures are now streamlined digitally.
Conclusion
The Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) issued by the Coconut Development Board is a vital certificate that enables Indian coconut exporters to legally access export incentives, participate in promotional activities, and achieve international market visibility.
Despite the challenges experienced in documentation and renewal, the benefits—ranging from export subsidies and market intelligence to global trade event participation—make the RCMC indispensable for sustained growth in the export sector.
Exporters in the coconut industry are encouraged to secure and consistently renew their RCMC through the Coconut Development Board to fully harness export opportunities and contribute to India’s agricultural export prosperity.
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