Section 14
Import & Export
आयात-निर्यात
From your first export order to large-scale exports: 22 government tools, 30 Export Promotion Councils and 12 trade agreements in force today.
- export schemes and tools
- 22
- export promotion councils
- 30
- trade agreements in force
- 12
First export
First export for a small business — step by step
- 1Get IEC
Apply online on dgft.gov.in in ANF-2A. Upload cancelled cheque (with entity name) or bank certificate, and address proof. One PAN = one IEC; permanent validity; update details at least once a year.
- 2Get RCMC
Register with the EPC/Board for your main product in ANF 2C (HBP 2.79–2.80). If no EPC covers it, use FIEO. RCMC is valid 5 years.
- 3Find a buyer
Use EPC trade fairs and BSMs (EPM Market Access Support), Trade Connect e-Platform, Indian Missions.
- 4Check product rules
Check ITC(HS) export policy (free/restricted/prohibited), RoDTEP rate in Appendix 4R, and FTA rules of origin for the buyer's country.
- 5Secure payment
Take ECGC cover (Small Exporters Policy if turnover ≤ ₹500 lakh) or insist on a Letter of Credit; SCR gives 90% cover including LC-bank risk.
- 6Arrange finance
File Intent-to-Claim on dgft.gov.in for EPM interest subvention (2.75%, cap ₹50 lakh) or collateral guarantee before taking packing credit.
- 7Documents and shipment
Commercial invoice, packing list, shipping bill (ICEGATE), CoO for FTA, then claim RoDTEP in the shipping bill. Parcels can go by courier or a Dak Ghar Niryat Kendra; the FTP sets no value limit per courier consignment.
- 8Realise payment
Get proceeds within FEMA time limit; e-BRC/EDPMS data is needed for RoDTEP retention and AA/EPCG EODC.
Export Promotion Mission
The new export mission — finance and market support
The central government’s export mission (FY2025-26 to FY2030-31). Each part is a separate scheme with its own conditions and limits.
- Export Promotion MissionActive
₹25,060 crore (FY2025-26 to FY2030-31)
Full details - EPM interest subventionActive
Interest subvention of 2.75% on interest cost
Full details - EPM collateral guaranteeActive
Credit guarantee to lenders: 85% cover for micro and small, 65% for medium
Full details - EPM export factoringActive
Interest subvention of 2.75% on factoring cost; recourse and non-recourse; INR or freely convertible currency
Full details - EPM e-commerce creditActive
Direct E-Commerce Credit Facility: up to 90% guarantee cover, cap ₹50 lakh
Full details - EPM new-market risk sharingActive
Risk-sharing 10% to 90% of transaction value as per risk model
Full details - EPM TRACE certification supportActive
Positive List (e.g.
Full details - EPM LIFT freight supportActive
Up to 30% of actual cost of eligible transport services
Full details - EPM INSIGHTActive
Up to 50% of approved project cost (government entities up to 100%) for modules, training, district facilitation, research, trade intelligence
Full details - EPM FLOWActive
Overseas warehousing: lower of ₹10 crore or 30% of project cost
Full details - EPM MAS (trade fairs, BSMs)Active
Up to ₹5 crore per event for BSMs, trade fairs, delegations; up to ₹10 crore per event for Reverse BSMs; airfare support to MSMEs; preferential…
Full details
Foreign Trade Policy 2023
Duty exemptions and export tools
- FTP 2023ActiveUmbrella policy for Advance Authorisation, DFIA, EPCG, RoDTEP, RoSCTL, Status Holder recognition, Districts as Export Hubs, e-commerce exports and…
- Advance AuthorisationActiveDuty-free import of inputs: exemption from Basic Customs Duty, additional duties, anti-dumping, countervailing and safeguard duties where applicable;…
- EPCGActiveZero customs duty on import of capital goods; IGST and Compensation Cess also exempt for physical exports (FTP 5.01(a))
- RoDTEPActiveRebate at notified % of FOB value, with per-unit value cap where notified, issued as transferable e-scrip in CBIC electronic ledger
- RoSCTLActiveRebate of embedded state and central taxes as transferable duty credit e-scrips
- Status HolderActiveSelf-ratification of input-output norms for Two Star and above (FTP 2023 presentation)
- Districts as Export HubsActiveIdentification of export products per district
- E-commerce exports / DNKActiveNo value limit per consignment for courier exports (FTP 2023 Chapter 9, current version)
- IESClosedWas 3% for MSME manufacturer exporters and 2% for 410 tariff lines (per secondary summary)
- APEDA FASUnclearInfrastructure (pack house, reefer transport, cable system, missing gaps, upgradation): up to 40% subject to ₹200 lakh per activity
- Niryat BandhuUnclearMentoring, outreach sessions, IIFT online course 'Niryat Bandhu @ Your Desktop' (2015)
Trade agreements
Countries where you can sell at lower duty
You get the benefit only when you take a preferential Certificate of Origin and meet the rules of origin.
| Agreement | In force | For a small exporter | How to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
| India–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) | 1 May 2022 | Use it for gems & jewellery, textiles, food and engineering to the Gulf; claim zero/low duty with CoO. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) | 29 December 2022 | All Indian goods enter Australia duty free with a valid CoO. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) — Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein | 1 October 2025 | Non-agricultural exports to Switzerland/Norway get duty-free entry; some processed agri items too. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) | 15 July 2026 | Big gain for garment, leather, footwear, jewellery and food MSMEs selling to UK. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–Oman CEPA | 1 June 2026 | Almost all exports to Oman duty free from day one. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–New Zealand FTA | 20 October 2026 | Check on 20 Oct 2026 that DGFT has notified the CoO module before shipping. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–Mauritius Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) | in force | Small market; useful for Africa gateway trade. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| ASEAN–India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) | in force | Covers 10 ASEAN countries; check product-specific rules of origin. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–Japan CEPA | in force | Japan buyers demand strict quality; CoO gives duty edge. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–Korea CEPA | in force | Check tariff schedule before quoting. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–EU FTA | not in force | Not usable yet. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
| India–US Bilateral Trade Agreement (first tranche) | not in force | Not usable yet; US tariffs on Indian goods per US executive orders. | Get preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) online via DGFT e-CoO platform and meet rules of origin; fee ₹200 per CoO where applicable (HBP 2.90–2.93) |
Export Promotion Councils
30 councils — choose the council for your product
You get the RCMC (registration-cum-membership certificate) from this council — it is needed for export benefits.
Export councilApparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Readymade garments
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilBasic Chemicals, Cosmetics & Dyes Export Promotion Council (CHEMEXCIL)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Dyes, dye intermediates, coal tar chemicals; basic inorganic/organic chemicals incl. agrochemicals; cosmetics, toiletries, essential oils (except AYUSHEXCIL items); castor oil
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilCarpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Handmade/hand-knotted woollen, silk, synthetic carpets, rugs, durries, tufted carpets, namdas, other floor coverings
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilCAPEXIL (Chemicals & Allied Products EPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Animal by-products, granite and stones, graphite electrodes, ossein/gelatine, paints, paper and board, plywood, processed minerals, rubber manufactured products and other listed items
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilCotton Textiles Export Promotion Council (TEXPROCIL)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Cotton yarn, sewing thread, cotton fabrics, made-ups, raw cotton
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilCouncil for Leather Exports (CLE)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Leather and leather products
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilEEPC India (Engineering Export Promotion Council)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Machinery, motor vehicles, auto components, bicycles, two/three-wheelers, engines, pumps, electrical and home appliances, tools, iron and steel products, non-ferrous metals, railway rolling stock, builders hardware, mica, misc engineering
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilElectronics & Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Electronics hardware, consumer electronics, electronic instruments incl. medical/lab equipment, components, computer hardware, software, IT/ITeS, BPO/KPO
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilExport Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Handicrafts: art metal ware, wood ware, hand-printed textiles, embroidered goods, shawls, artistic jewellery, lace, stone art, jute handicrafts, papier mache, agarbatti and attars
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilExport Promotion Council for EOUs & SEZs (EPCES)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: All products and services of EOUs (spices EOUs must also register with Spices Board) and SEZ units
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilFederation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Apex body; issues RCMC for products not covered by any EPC and for multi-product exporters whose main line is not settled
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilGem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Pearls, cut and polished diamonds and coloured gemstones, gold/silver/platinum jewellery, synthetic stones, costume jewellery, silver filigree, rough diamonds
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilHandloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: All handloom products: fabrics, home furnishings, carpets, floor coverings
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilIndian Oilseeds & Produce Export Promotion Council (IOPEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Sesame, niger seed, oilseeds and oils (except de-oiled cake, rice bran oil, soya oil, soya DOC and SHEFEXIL items)
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilIndian Silk Export Promotion Council (ISEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Natural silk and silk blends and products incl. garments and carpets
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilJute Products Development & Export Promotion Council (JPDEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Jute, jute-blended and jute union products
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilPharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (PHARMEXCIL)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Bulk drugs and intermediates, formulations, biotech and biologicals, diagnostics, surgicals, nutraceuticals
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilPlastics Export Promotion Council (PLEXCONCIL)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: All plastic raw materials, intermediates, films, sheets, packaging, woven sacks, FIBCs and plastic products
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilPowerloom Development & Export Promotion Council (PDEXCIL)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Powerloom products
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilProject Exports Promotion Council of India (PEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Project exports
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilServices Export Promotion Council (SEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Services: accounting, advertising, architecture, consultancy, distribution, education, entertainment/audio-visual, environmental, healthcare, hotel and tourism, legal, maritime transport, market research, printing/publishing, others
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilShellac & Forest Products Export Promotion Council (SHEFEXIL)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Shellac and lac products, guar gum, herbs, vegetable saps and extracts, oil cakes, minor forest produce, nutraceuticals; also multi-product exporters from North East
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilSports Goods Export Promotion Council (SGEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Sports goods
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilSynthetic & Rayon Textiles EPC (SRTEPC) — listed by others as MATEXIL (Man-made and Technical Textiles EPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Synthetic and rayon (man-made) textiles
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilTelecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Telecom equipment and services
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilWool Industry Export Promotion Council (WOOLTEXPRO)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Wool industry products
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilWool & Woollens Export Promotion Council (WWEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Wool and woollens
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilMobile and Electronic Devices Export Promotion Council (MEDEPC)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Smartphones, other mobile phones, smart watches, monitors, projectors, TVs, multifunction devices/printers, ADP machines
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilExport Promotion Council for Medical Devices (EPCMD)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Medical devices: dressings, bandages, sterile surgical items, instruments, implants etc. (long list in Appendix 2T)
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Export councilAYUSH Export Promotion Council (AYUSHEXCIL)
Issues RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for: Medicants and medicaments of Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Homoeopathy, Biochemic systems; certain cosmetics such as eye make-up, face creams, moisturising lotion
What it does for you
- Trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, market intelligence for members
What you get
- RCMC valid 5 years from 1 April of issue year (HBP 2.81)
Merits
- RCMC is mandatory to claim most FTP benefits (AA, EPCG, EPM via EPCs)
Demerits
- Membership fee varies by council and was not confirmed
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
Boards & institutions
DGFT, ECGC, EXIM Bank, APEDA and boards
DepartmentDirectorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
Issues IEC (one PAN, one IEC; permanent validity)
What it does for you
- Issues Advance Authorisation, EPCG, Status Holder certificates
- Implements Export Promotion Mission
- Runs Trade Connect e-Platform (trade.gov.in)
What you get
- IEC online in ANF-2A with cancelled cheque/bank certificate and address proof (HBP 2.08)
- Regional Authorities across India
Merits
- Most services online with DSC
- IEC auto-generated online
Demerits
- Frequent notifications to track
Source: Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT) · DGFT presentation: Foreign Trade Policy 2023 (31.03.2023)
PortalTrade Connect e-Platform (trade.gov.in)
Trade information for current and aspiring exporters
What it does for you
- Links DGFT, Indian Missions, EPCs, Commodity Boards
- Filing point for EPM Niryat Disha claims (LIFT, TRACE, FLOW, INSIGHT, MAS)
What you get
- Ask-an-expert style connection with Missions and EPCs (per DoC release)
Merits
- Single window for EPM non-finance claims
Demerits
- Newer platform; Hindi and other languages promised in v2.0 (per report)
Source: Department of Commerce (PIB 2149736): Government initiatives enhance transparency and ease of compliance in export system · PIB backgrounder: Export Promotion Mission — Integrated Pathway for MSMEs (24 Feb 2026)
Development bankECGC Ltd (Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India)
Insures exporters against buyer non-payment (commercial risk) and political risk
What it does for you
- Insures banks that give export credit (ECIB products)
What you get
- Small Exporters Policy (SEP): for exporters with anticipated annual export turnover up to ₹500 lakh; minimum premium ₹5,000 vs ₹10,000 standard; waiting period half of standard 4 months; 5% no-claim bonus
- Shipments Comprehensive Risks Policy (SCR): for turnover above ₹500 lakh; covers commercial/buyer risk, political risk and LC-opening-bank risk; 90% cover; minimum premium ₹10,000
- Specific Shipment Policy (short term), Services Policy, Export Turnover Policy, Buyer-wise Policy
- ECIB products for banks
Merits
- 90% cover on SCR protects working capital against buyer default
- Cheaper entry policy for small exporters
Demerits
- Monthly shipment declarations and overdue reporting (by 15th) are mandatory or claim can fail
- Premium payable in advance
Source: ECGC home page · ECGC — Small Exporters Policy (SEP) · ECGC — Shipments Comprehensive Risks Policy (SCR)
Development bankExport-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank)
Export credit and support for SME exporters
What it does for you
- Implements EPM e-commerce credit facility
What you get
- Ubharte Sitaare Programme: equity, debt and technical assistance for firms with differentiated products, turnover up to approx. ₹500 crore
- Trade Assistance Programme (trade finance gaps)
- Pre- and post-shipment credit, project export finance, buyer's credit
- Exim Finserve (GIFT City) factoring
Merits
- Equity plus debt plus TA in one programme for growth-stage exporters
Demerits
- Ubharte Sitaare is selective; micro exporters rarely qualify
Source: EXIM Bank — Ubharte Sitaare Programme · EXIM Bank Annual Report 2025-26 · PIB backgrounder: Export Promotion Mission — Integrated Pathway for MSMEs (24 Feb 2026)
BoardAgricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
Registering authority (RCMC) for: Fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, dairy, bakery, honey, cocoa, beverages, cereals, groundnuts, pickles, guar gum, floriculture, herbal plants, cashew kernels and cashew shell liquid
What it does for you
- Commodity-specific export promotion
Merits
- RCMC from this body is required to claim FTP benefits for these products (HBP 2.80)
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
BoardMarine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)
Registering authority (RCMC) for: All fishery products: shrimp, prawn, lobster, crab, fish, shellfish, other aquatic animals or plants
What it does for you
- Commodity-specific export promotion
Merits
- RCMC from this body is required to claim FTP benefits for these products (HBP 2.80)
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
BoardSpices Board
Registering authority (RCMC) for: Spices (EOUs exporting spices must also register here)
What it does for you
- Commodity-specific export promotion
Merits
- RCMC from this body is required to claim FTP benefits for these products (HBP 2.80)
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
BoardTea Board
Registering authority (RCMC) for: Tea
What it does for you
- Commodity-specific export promotion
Merits
- RCMC from this body is required to claim FTP benefits for these products (HBP 2.80)
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
BoardCoffee Board
Registering authority (RCMC) for: Coffee
What it does for you
- Commodity-specific export promotion
Merits
- RCMC from this body is required to claim FTP benefits for these products (HBP 2.80)
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
BoardRubber Board
Registering authority (RCMC) for: Natural rubber
What it does for you
- Commodity-specific export promotion
Merits
- RCMC from this body is required to claim FTP benefits for these products (HBP 2.80)
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
BoardTobacco Board
Registering authority (RCMC) for: Unmanufactured (FCV, burley, bidi, chewing, cigar) and manufactured tobacco (cigarettes, cigars, beedis, snuff, hookah paste)
What it does for you
- Commodity-specific export promotion
Merits
- RCMC from this body is required to claim FTP benefits for these products (HBP 2.80)
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
BoardCoir Board
Registering authority (RCMC) for: Coir and coir products
What it does for you
- Commodity-specific export promotion
Merits
- RCMC from this body is required to claim FTP benefits for these products (HBP 2.80)
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)
BoardCoconut Development Board
Registering authority (RCMC) for: All coconut products other than those made from husk and fibre
What it does for you
- Commodity-specific export promotion
Merits
- RCMC from this body is required to claim FTP benefits for these products (HBP 2.80)
Source: HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards / EDAs (as on 31.07.2023, DGFT) · Handbook of Procedures 2023 Chapter 2 (version 07/2026, DGFT)