Exporting products from India presents a vast growth opportunity, especially for mid-size enterprises aiming to expand their reach beyond domestic markets. However, to fully tap into global trade channels, businesses must first align with the requirements set by various Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. One of the most crucial compliance aspects is obtaining and renewing the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC). This guide will help you understand the procedural and strategic aspects of dealing with export council obligations.
Understanding Export Promotion Councils (EPCs)
Export Promotion Councils are authorized bodies set up to promote and support the export of specific categories of goods and services. Each EPC represents a particular sector, such as APEDA for agricultural products, CAPEXIL for chemical and allied products, and FIEO for general merchandise exporters. Membership in these councils is often mandatory to avail benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy and to legally participate in international trade fairs, access duty drawbacks, and claim various government incentives.
Why RCMC Matters for Mid-Size Exporters
For mid-size businesses that are scaling operations, the RCMC acts as a credibility certificate. It affirms that the exporter is recognized by the government and is committed to following the rules of international trade. Additionally, having a valid RCMC is essential for claiming export-related benefits like MEIS, SEIS, RoDTEP, and participation in export schemes or financial support initiatives.
How to Obtain and Renew RCMC
The process of obtaining RCMC typically involves:
Identifying the relevant EPC based on your product line
Filing an application with the council (usually online)
Submitting essential documents like IEC code, GST certificate, PAN, and MSME/Udyam certificate (if applicable)
Paying the membership and registration fee
Renewing the RCMC is just as important. Most certificates are valid for five years, and a lapse can result in suspension of export-related privileges. Renewal requires submission of updated documents and payment of renewal fees. It's advisable to start the renewal process at least one to two months before the expiry date.
Common Challenges Faced by Mid-Sized Businesses
Lack of awareness about which council to register with
Missing renewal timelines resulting in export delays
Inconsistent documentation, especially post-GST implementation
Manual errors in application forms and digital signatures
To avoid these issues, exporters must keep a compliance calendar, maintain a central record of trade-related documents, and regularly monitor policy updates from the DGFT and concerned EPCs.
How Agile Regulatory Can Help
At Agile Regulatory, we specialize in assisting mid-size and emerging exporters with end-to-end support for RCMC registration and renewal. With our expert team and up-to-date regulatory knowledge, we ensure your business remains compliant with the latest export council requirements. Whether you're registering with APEDA, FIEO, CAPEXIL, or any other EPC, we streamline the entire process—from documentation to approval—so you can focus on growing your exports. Connect with us today for a seamless, time-bound RCMC service tailored to your sector.