What is a Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC)?

The Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) is a certificate issued by Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) or Commodity Boards in India. It is mandatory for exporters to avail benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and to establish themselves as a registered exporter.

Who Needs an RCMC?

✔️ Exporters applying for incentives, duty drawbacks, or exemptions under FTP.
✔️ Exporters dealing in specific commodities that fall under an EPC or Commodity Board.
✔️ Manufacturers and Merchant Exporters seeking official recognition.

📌 RCMC is valid for 5 years from the date of issue.

Issuing Authorities for RCMC

RCMC is issued by Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) or Commodity Boards based on the product being exported. Below are some key authorities:

1. Agriculture & Processed Food

• APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) – For cereals, fruits, vegetables, processed foods, etc.

• MPEDA (Marine Products Export Development Authority) – For seafood and fishery products.

• Spices Board – For exporting spices.

2. Textiles & Handicrafts

• Textile Export Promotion Councils (Various based on fabric type)

• EPCH (Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts) – For handmade products and handicrafts.

3. Engineering & Electronics

• EEPC India (Engineering Export Promotion Council) – For machinery, industrial products, and engineering goods.

• ESC (Electronics and Computer Software EPC) – For IT products and software exports.

4. Pharmaceuticals & Chemicals

• CHEMEXCIL – For chemicals, dyes, and cosmetics.

• PHARMEXCIL – For pharmaceutical and healthcare products.

5. Other Sectors

• Gems and Jewellery EPC (GJEPC) – For gold, diamonds, and gemstones.

• FIEO (Federation of Indian Export Organizations) – For exporters dealing in multiple products or those not covered under a specific EPC.

Documents Required for RCMC Application

📌 IEC (Import Export Code) issued by DGFT.
📌 Business Registration Certificate (GST, PAN, Incorporation Certificate).
📌 Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque.
📌 Self-certified Product Details related to exports.
📌 Past Export Performance Details (if applicable).

How to Apply for RCMC?

1️⃣ Choose the Relevant EPC based on your product.
2️⃣ Register on the EPC Website or visit their office.
3️⃣ Fill Out the Application Form and attach the required documents.
4️⃣ Pay the Applicable Fee (Varies by EPC).
5️⃣ Receive the RCMC (Usually within a few days).

Benefits of RCMC

✅ Access to Export Incentives under FTP.
✅ Helps in Government Recognition as an authorized exporter.
✅ Participation in EPC-organized trade fairs and exhibitions.
✅ Assistance in resolving export-related issues.