RCMC Registration – Essential Export Facilitation for Indian Businesses
Table of Contents
Overview of RCMC Registration
The Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) is a critical credential issued by Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and Commodity Boards in India to eligible exporters. It acts as formal proof of registration with the respective council or board, enabling exporters to access benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
The concept of RCMC originates from India’s efforts to streamline export procedures and incentivize businesses engaged in international trade. The RCMC is embedded within regulatory frameworks designed to promote exports, improve compliance, and support exporters through schemes such as Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS), and others governed by FTP/HBP.
Historically, the registration and monitoring of exporters via RCMC were conducted to ensure authenticity and legitimacy of trade entities, maintain trade data, and provide policy support. Over time, the issuance and management processes have been digitized for ease of use and better governance.
Who Needs RCMC Registration?
Exporters who wish to avail themselves of export promotion benefits must acquire an RCMC issued by the relevant Export Promotion Council or Commodity Board associated with their commodity or service type:
- Manufacturers, traders, or service providers registered under the Ministry of Commerce’s EPC schemes.
- Exporters of specific commodities like textiles, gems and jewelry, electronics, engineering goods, chemicals, handicrafts, etc.
- Service exporters in sectors like IT, education, healthcare, tourism, and financial services eligible under SEIS.
- Export-oriented units and Special Economic Zone (SEZ) units opting for export incentives.
- New exporters seeking formal registration with industry-specific councils for recognition and facilitation.
- Businesses requiring certification and compliance documents for customs clearance and trade finance.
RCMC acts as a gateway document for government-backed export subsidies and ensures the business is part of the formal export ecosystem
Key Benefits of RCMC Registration
- Access to Export Incentives: Enables exporters to claim benefits such as MEIS, SEIS, Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme, duty drawback, and tax rebates.
- Formal Recognition: Establishes credibility by registering with official export promotion agencies.
- Trade Facilitation: Assists in obtaining export licenses, certificates of origin, shipping bills, and customs clearances with ease.
- Market Intelligence & Support: Provides exporters access to market research, trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and export development programs.
- Policy Advocacy: Gives exporters a voice in policy formulation through council representation.
- Networking Opportunities: Connects exporters with a network of buyers, suppliers, and financial institutions.
- Compliance Assurance: Ensures adherence to export regulations and supports smooth transaction processing.
- Digital Process: Online registration and renewal reduce delays and improve convenience.
These advantages help Indian exporters expand their reach, reduce transaction costs, and comply with trade laws efficiently.
Procedure for RCMC Registration
The steps to obtain RCMC registration are as follows:
- Identify the Relevant Export Promotion Council (EPC): Based on your product or service, determine the appropriate council (e.g., Apparel, Gems & Jewelry, Pharmaceuticals).
- Apply Online or Offline: Visit the EPC official website or DGFT portal to access the RCMC application form.
- Fill Application Form: Provide detailed business information including IEC number, PAN, GSTIN, product/service details, and bank details.
- Upload Required Documents: Submit scanned copies of necessary certificates and identity proofs.
- Fee Payment: Pay the prescribed non-refundable registration fee online, usually valid for five years.
- Verification Process: EPC verifies submitted documents, business details, and eligibility criteria.
- Issuance of RCMC: Upon approval, the RCMC certificate is issued digitally and sent to the registered email or physical address.
- Renewal: Renewal can be done online by submitting updated information before expiry.
Timelines vary but generally, RCMC issuance takes 7-15 working days post submission of complete and correct documentation
Documents Required for RCMC Registration
Valid Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT.
PAN Card of the business or proprietor.
Proof of business registration such as GST certificate, company registration certificates.
Identity proof of proprietor, partners, or directors (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID).
Bank account details with cancelled cheque or bank statement.
Address proof of office or manufacturing unit (electricity bill, rent agreement).
Product or service details relevant to EPC category.
Passport size photographs of proprietor/authorized signatory.
Export performance data if applicable (for renewal or advanced registrations).
Update and Compliance for RCMC
- Timely Renewal: RCMC certificates are valid for five years. Renewals must be submitted before expiry to avoid lapses.
- Reporting Changes: Any change in business constitution, address, or bank details must be promptly reported to the EPC.
- Compliance with FTP: Stay updated with changes in Foreign Trade Policy and related export incentive schemes.
- Maintain Export Records: Keeping accurate export documents is critical for audits and scheme claims.
- Participate in Audits: EPCs may conduct inspections or audits to validate eligibility and compliance.
- Avoid Penalties: Non-compliance may lead to suspension of incentives or cancellation of RCMC.
Regular compliance ensures uninterrupted access to export benefits and credibility in international markets
Why Choose Us for RCMC Registration?
- End-to-End Support: From document assistance, application filing, to tracking and renewal, we handle it all.
- Accuracy & Compliance: Our experts ensure your submission is complete and adheres to all regulatory requirements.
- Quick Processing: We minimize delays by providing clear guidance and avoiding common mistakes.
- Affordable Services: Transparent pricing tailored to the needs of MSMEs and large exporters alike.
- Personalized Customer Service: Dedicated teams available to answer queries and provide timely updates.
- Trusted Experience: Successful facilitation of RCMC for numerous clients across diverse sectors.
Our professional approach saves time, reduces hassle, and helps exporters seize global opportunities confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an RCMC?
A Registration Cum Membership Certificate issued by Export Promotion Councils certifying exporter membership.
Is RCMC registration mandatory for all exporters?
It is mandatory for exporters seeking export incentives under India’s Foreign Trade Policy schemes.
How long is an RCMC valid?
Typically valid for five years, subject to renewal.
Can RCMC be obtained online?
Yes, most EPCs offer online submission and issuance of RCMC certificates.
What documents are required for RCMC registration?
IEC certificate, PAN card, business registration proof, identity and address proof, and bank details are needed.
Are there benefits of RCMC apart from export incentives?
Yes, it offers trade facilitation, market access support, and participation in export promotional activities.