Export essentials
Posted on May 15, 2025
If you plan to export from India, you've likely encountered the term RCMC registration. But what exactly is it—and why does it matter?
In simple terms, RCMC stands for Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate. It's a mandatory document for exporters in many sectors, helping them access trade benefits and support from recognised Export Promotion Councils (EPCs).
Whether you're a first-time exporter or expanding into new markets, understanding how RCMC works can smooth your global trade journey.
Let's uncover everything about RCMC in this blog.
What is RCMC?
RCMC stands for Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate. It’s a government-recognised certificate issued by an Export Promotion Council (EPC) or a commodity board in India. This certificate validates that your business is registered as an exporter and a council member promoting your product or service.
If you want to grow your exports or claim benefits under India’s Foreign Trade Policy, RCMC registration is essential. Without it, you could miss several government incentives and schemes to support exporters.
Full Form of RCMC
As mentioned earlier, the full form of RCMC is Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate. It may sound bureaucratic, but this document opens doors for smoother export operations, access to EPC resources, and financial support schemes.
The Role of the Export Promotion Council (EPC)
The Export Promotion Council (EPC) is a government-backed organisation that promotes exporting specific goods or services. When you register for an RCMC, you do it through the EPC that aligns with your product category.
Each EPC:
Represents a sector (e.g., textiles, spices, engineering goods)
Offers guidance on export strategies
Provides updates on global demand, pricing, and quality standards
Helps members attend trade fairs and international exhibitions
Being part of an EPC is more than a compliance step—it’s a gateway to networking, knowledge, and credibility in global markets.
How RCMC Supports Exporters in Getting Financial Incentives?
One of the biggest reasons to complete your RCMC registration is to become eligible for various financial incentives under schemes like:
RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products)
Advance Authorization Scheme
Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme
Only businesses with a valid RCMC certificate can apply for these benefits. This certificate proves that you're an authorized exporter and a member of the recognized EPC, which is required for most incentive programs offered by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade).
RCMC Registration Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let us understand how you can register for RCMC online and offline and what documents you need to complete the process.
How to Register for RCMC and Ensure You’re Complying with the Requirements?
The RCMC registration process is fairly straightforward if you know the right steps. Here's how you can get started:
Identify the correct EPC for your product category.
Collect the required documents.
Choose the mode of application—online via the DGFT portal or offline via the council.
Apply and pay the required fees.
Once verified, you’ll receive your RCMC certificate, typically valid for five years.
Documents Required for RCMC Registration
To complete the process smoothly, keep the following documents ready:
GST registration certificate
PAN card of the firm or proprietor
Company incorporation or partnership deed
Bank certificate or canceled cheque
Digital signature certificate (for online application)
Application form (filled and signed)
Some EPCs might ask for product details or export performance history. Always check their official checklist to avoid delays.
How to Apply for RCMC Online and Offline?
Let's understand how to apply for RCMC:
Online Application
Visit the DGFT website
Log in with your IEC and password
Fill in the RCMC application form
Upload documents and pay the fee
Track your application status online
Offline Application
The RCMC application process is now completely paperless. Hence, you can only apply through the DGFT website and complete the process online. Moreover, the online method is faster and preferred by most businesses.
Registration with the Relevant Export Promotion Council (EPC)
Choosing the right EPC is crucial. Your product must fall under the scope of that council’s category. For example:
Spices Board for spice exports
EEPC India for engineering products
GJEPC for gems and jewellery
APEDA for agricultural and processed food products
If your product doesn't fall under any specific EPC, you can register with FIEO (Federation of Indian Export Organisations), which covers various general categories.
Is RCMC Mandatory for Exporters?
The next question that every business owner might have is whether RCMC is mandatory. Let's understand here.
Why Does Every Indian Exporter Need to Have RCMC?
RCMC registration is mandatory for many Indian exporters, especially if you wish to claim benefits under India’s Foreign Trade Policy. It’s not just a formality; rather, it’s a gateway to accessing financial assistance, subsidies, and EPC support.
Even if you’re new to exports, securing an RCMC certificate early can help you stay compliant and competitive.
Legal and Financial Benefits of RCMC
RCMC registration aligns your business with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the relevant Export Promotion Council. Without this, you may not be eligible for:
Import/export-related licenses
Participation in government-backed trade fairs
Policy updates and industry insights
Financially, an RCMC certificate lets you apply for export-linked schemes and incentives that directly boost profit margins.
Tax Exemptions and Incentives with RCMC Registration
With an RCMC certificate, your business can claim:
Benefits under RoDTEP and MEIS (if applicable)
Duty exemptions through schemes like Advance Authorization or EPCG
Who Needs RCMC and When It’s Required?
You need RCMC registration if:
You’re exporting goods or services listed under any Export Promotion Council
Do you want to claim export benefits or financial incentives
You’re applying for EPCG licenses, SEIS benefits, or RoDTEP refunds
RCMC in Export Compliance with Government Rules
RCMC plays a key role in staying compliant with DGFT guidelines. Without it, your export applications may be rejected, or you may face delays in receiving benefits.
It also helps report exports accurately, attend EPC-approved trade shows, and maintain transparency with customs and taxation departments.
RCMC Certificate: Benefits for Exporters
An RCMC certificate is not just a document. Instead, it’s a revenue growth engine. It provides you access to India’s expansive export marketplace and several direct and indirect perks for scaling your operations globally. Here are the benefits:
Access to Export Subsidies and Schemes
Once your RCMC registration is complete, you become eligible for:
RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products)
EPCG (Export Promotion Capital Goods)
Advance Authorization Scheme
Market Access Initiative (MAI) support
These schemes reduce your tax burden and operating costs, allowing you to price your exports more competitively.
Easy Access to Foreign Markets
Through EPC support, you’ll get:
Invitations to international trade fairs
Market intelligence reports on demand, trends, and pricing
Buyer-seller meetups to connect with global clients
An RCMC certificate often acts as a pre-qualification for participation in these events.
Increased Credibility with International Buyers
Foreign buyers look for verified, government-registered exporters. Having an RCMC boosts your legitimacy and makes your business appear trustworthy.
When you're EPC-certified, it shows that you meet quality standards and are backed by a recognised body.
How to Download RCMC Certificate and What to Expect?
Once your RCMC registration is approved by the Export Promotion Council (EPC), you will receive a digital RCMC certificate. This document proves your business is officially recognised as an exporter in India. It contains details like your IEC code, business type, and EPC membership number.
You can download the certificate online from the official EPC or DGFT portal.
Process for Verifying and Using the Certificate
To download and verify your certificate:
Log in with your credentials and IEC number.
Go to the RCMC section and click “Download.”
Verify the certificate details like issue date, validity, and EPC name.
Save the PDF copy for future reference or use.
You’ll need this certificate when applying for:
DGFT benefits
Customs clearance
Trade finance and bank documentation
How to Renew Your RCMC Certificate?
An RCMC certificate is typically valid for five financial years. Renewal is required before expiry to avoid lapses in benefits.
Steps to renew:
Submit updated business documents (GST, IEC, PAN)
Pay the renewal fee to your EPC
Fill out the renewal form online/offline
Receive the renewed certificate in your portal
Make sure to renew at least one month before expiration to avoid interruptions.
Common Mistakes When Downloading the Certificate
Exporters often make these errors:
Using the wrong EPC portal
Entering incorrect IEC details
Forgetting to check certificate validity
Ignoring digital signatures or document security
Always cross-check the certificate before using it for legal or trade documentation.
RCMC Full Form in Banking: Understanding Its Importance in International Trade
The RCMC is very important for international banking as it enables smooth operations for trade finance. Most banks ask for an RCMC certificate as evidence that you are an authorized exporter under India’s Foreign Trade Policy.
Link Between RCMC and Forex Transactions
When dealing with foreign exchange (forex) transactions, banks verify your RCMC registration to:
Approve Letter of Credit
Process foreign currency inward remittances
Support export invoice financing
An RCMC certificate ensures your exports are legitimate, traceable, and eligible for financial services.
Impact on International Payments and Trade Finance
Without RCMC registration, banks may delay:
Releasing foreign payments
Sanctioning trade finance loans
Validating export documentation
With it, you get faster clearances, less paperwork, and access to preferential loan terms under trade finance programs.
How to Link RCMC to Your Bank Accounts for Smooth Exports?
To link your RCMC certificate to your export bank account:
Share a copy of your certificate with your export account manager.
Update your bank’s KYC profile with your RCMC number.
Request your bank to map the certificate with your IEC number.
This linkage ensures you face no issues while receiving export payments, claiming rebates, or applying for export credit.
RCMC Registration with EPCs: Choosing the Right Export Promotion Council
There are several Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) in India. Each EPC focuses on a specific sector like textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, gems, and jewelry. Choosing the correct EPC is crucial for smooth RCMC registration and access to relevant export benefits.
How to Decide Which EPC Is the Best Fit for Your Export Business
Your EPC depends on the main product or service you export. For instance:
Exporting textiles or garments? Register with AEPC.
Selling agricultural products? Choose APEDA.
Involved in handicrafts? Go for EPCH.
Your EPC is based on the HS code and nature of goods, so always check with the DGFT or EPC helpdesk for clarity.
Key EPCs for Popular Export Sectors
Here are some top EPCs and what they cover:
S.NO EXPORT PROMOTION ORGANISATIONS ABBREVIATION
1 Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
2 Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC)
3 Basic Chemicals, Cosmetics and Dyes Export Promotion Council (CHEMEXCI)
4 Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC)
5 Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI)
7 Council for Leather Exports (CLE)
8 EEPC India
9 Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH)
10 Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC)
11 Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC)
12 Indian Oil Seeds and Produce Export Promotion Council (IOPEPC)
What is RCMC in Export?
RCMC registration is governed by India’s Foreign Trade Policy (FTP). It’s issued by the concerned Export Promotion Council, recogniSed by the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade).
RCMC certifies that your business is a legitimate exporter eligible for trade benefits.
Role in Mitigating Customs Issues and Facilitating Hassle-Free Shipping
Having an RCMC certificate helps:
Avoid customs delays
Reduce documentation issues
Ensure smooth export clearance
Customs officials often require RCMC to verify your export eligibility.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During RCMC Registration
Incorrect Documentation
Many exporters submit outdated or mismatched documents (PAN, GST, IEC). Always double-check document accuracy and ensure they match your company’s legal info.
Failure to Register with the Correct EPC
Registering with the wrong EPC can lead to application rejection or loss of sector-specific benefits. Verify your sector with DGFT or consult a trade expert before applying.
Missing Out on Tax Exemptions
Without a valid RCMC certificate, you can’t claim:
GST refunds on exports
Duty drawback benefits
Subsidy schemes
Stay compliant to avoid missing out.
Delays Due to Incomplete Applications
Incorrect forms or failure to pay required fees often leads to rejection. All fields are absolutely mandatory and must be filled in. Before submission, please make sure that you are firmly in line with the conditions laid out.
Conclusion: How RCMC Helps Boost Your Export Business
RCMC registration is more than just a legal formality. It’s a gateway to India’s vast network of export incentives, global trade access, and credibility in foreign markets.
From smoother customs processes to eligibility for government schemes, RCMC empowers your export journey.
Apply for RCMC through the relevant Export Promotion Council today and unlock global growth for your business.
At Infinity, we understand the importance of being compliant and staying export-ready all the time. That is why at Infinity, we provide you with the service of receiving international payments seamlessly by staying compliant all the time.
FAQs: RCMC Registration for Indian Exporters
1. What is RCMC in export?
RCMC stands for Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate. An Export Promotion Council issues it and proves you are a recognized exporter in India.
2. Is RCMC registration mandatory for exporters?
Yes. RCMC registration is mandatory if you want to claim export benefits, tax exemptions, and incentives offered by the Indian government.
3. How can I download my RCMC certificate?
Log in to the respective EPC portal, go to the RCMC section, and download your certificate in PDF format. Make sure your IEC and documents are updated.
