APEDA Registration for Indian Exporters

For businesses looking to export agricultural or processed food products from India, obtaining APEDA Registration is a mandatory and crucial step for ensuring legal compliance and accessing global markets.

The full form of APEDA is the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority. It is a government organization under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, established by the Indian Parliament through the APEDA Act of 1985, which came into force on 1st March 1986.

The main goal of APEDA is to promote agricultural exports and ensure the quality of products leaving India. It acts as your passport to the global market, providing you with the credibility and support needed to succeed internationally.

Objectives and Functions of APEDA

APEDA's work is vital for India's agricultural export sector. Its key objectives and functions include:

• Promoting Exports: APEDA helps exporters find new markets and buyers abroad. It also participates in international trade shows to promote Indian products. To get started, businesses must obtain a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), which is essential for exporting scheduled products.
• Setting Standards: A key function is to set internationally recognized standards and specifications for agricultural products, ensuring Indian goods meet global quality requirements.
• Offering Financial Assistance: APEDA offers financial assistance to registered exporters for activities such as improving product quality, packaging, and upgrading infrastructure to meet global demands.
• Collecting Data: It collects and analyzes market data. This information is shared with exporters to help them make smart business decisions.
• Protecting Geographical Indications: APEDA helps protect products with unique geographical identities, like Basmati rice. This gives Indian products a special place in the global market.
• Access to Organic Export Certification: APEDA also facilitates organic certification for exporters looking to enter the growing global market for organic agricultural products, ensuring compliance with international organic standards.

APEDA oversees a wide range of products. These are categorized into two schedules. If you export any of these items, you must get APEDA registration.

First Schedule

The First Schedule includes a wide array of agricultural and processed food items. This list is comprehensive and covers many of India's most important export commodities.

• Fruits, Vegetables, and their Products: This includes fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as their processed forms like canned fruits, vegetable juices, pickles, and chutneys.
• Meat and Meat Products: The category covers a variety of meat and meat products from different animals.
• Poultry and Poultry Products: This includes fresh and processed poultry, such as chicken, eggs, and other related products.
• Dairy Products: This category includes a range of dairy items like milk, butter, cheese, and milk powders.
• Confectionery, Biscuits, and Bakery Products: This includes all types of candies, chocolates, biscuits, cakes, and other baked goods.
• Honey, Jaggery, and Sugar Products: This covers natural honey, jaggery, and various sugar-based products.
• Cocoa and its Products: All types of cocoa and chocolate products are included in this schedule.
• Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: This covers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Cereals and Cereal Products: It includes different types of cereals like rice, wheat, and maize, as well as their products.
• Groundnuts, Peanuts, and Walnuts: This category covers these specific nuts and their processed forms.
• Pickles, Papads, and Chutneys: These traditional Indian food items are also part of the schedule.
• Guar Gum: This is a significant agricultural export product covered by APEDA.
• Floriculture and Floriculture Products: This includes fresh flowers, plants, and other related floriculture items.
• Herbal and Medicinal Plants: The export of certain herbal and medicinal plants is also regulated under APEDA.

Second Schedule (Special Product)

Basmati rice is a product of great importance for Indian exports, and it has been specifically included in the Second Schedule of the APEDA Act. This separate classification highlights its strategic significance in India's agricultural export basket. Additionally, APEDA has been given the responsibility of monitoring the import of sugar, which is a crucial role for the authority in managing India's trade policies.

APEDA registration is more than just a legal requirement. It gives a business many advantages in the global market. Here is a look at the most important benefits.

• Legal Compliance

APEDA registration is a legal requirement for exporting scheduled products under the APEDA Act of 1985, which makes it mandatory. Without a valid registration, you cannot legally export these goods. This registration ensures your business complies with all government regulations, helping you avoid potential penalties and legal complications.

• Enhanced Global Credibility

Having an APEDA registration certificate, known as an RCMC, shows that you are a genuine and reliable exporter. International buyers trust the APEDA name. It reassures them that your products meet strict quality and safety standards. This increased credibility makes it easier to build partnerships with foreign companies. Since 17 July 2023, APEDA has issued the RCMC through the DGFT's e-RCMC portal, and hence streamlining the registration process for exporters.

• Facilitated Market Access

APEDA helps registered exporters gain access to new global markets. It signs agreements with various countries to make trade smoother. This reduces barriers and simplifies the export process. APEDA also helps exporters participate in international trade fairs and exhibitions. This is a great way to meet potential buyers. Through the AgriExchange portal (agriexchange.apeda.gov.in), exporters gain access to valuable trade leads, market trends, and a digital platform to connect directly with global buyers, further enhancing their market reach.

• Gateway to Financial Assistance and Schemes

Registered exporters can apply for financial help from APEDA. These schemes help businesses in many ways. They offer assistance for upgrading packaging, improving quality control, and building better infrastructure. This support can be very helpful for small and medium-sized exporters.

• Quality Assurance and Standards

APEDA is focused on maintaining high-quality standards. It helps exporters get important international certifications. These include standards like HACCP and ISO 22000. Meeting these standards is key to getting your products accepted in developed countries. APEDA also supports the use of modern technology to ensure product quality.

• Strategic Data Collection

APEDA gathers valuable market intelligence. It provides data on international trade, market trends, and new opportunities. This information helps registered businesses make informed choices. It helps you decide what products to export and where to sell them.

• Protection of Geographical Indications (GI)

APEDA helps protect the identity of specific Indian products. It registers them as Geographical Indications. This prevents other countries from selling products with the same name. This protection helps to maintain the value and reputation of unique Indian goods like Basmati rice.

• Promotion of Sustainable Practices

APEDA promotes the use of sustainable farming methods. It encourages organic farming and good agricultural practices. This helps to protect the environment and meet the growing global demand for organic products. It also enhances the reputation of Indian exports.

Not every business can register with APEDA. There are some specific requirements that you must meet.

General Eligibility for Exporters

To be eligible for APEDA registration, you must:

• Be an exporter of one or more of the scheduled products.
• Have a valid Import-Export Code (IEC) issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). This is a basic requirement for all exporters in India.
• Be a legally registered entity in India. This could be a Sole Proprietorship, a Partnership Firm, or a company.
• Have a bank account in the name of your business.

Special Considerations for Manufacturer-Exporters

If you are a manufacturer of food products, you must meet some extra conditions. You will need:

• A valid FSSAI Registration Certificate. This ensures your food products meet all safety standards.
• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pollution Control Board if your manufacturing unit produces pollutants.

Note: Registration must be applied for within 1 month from the date you begin exporting scheduled products.

To successfully apply for APEDA registration, you will need to prepare a specific set of documents. Having everything ready beforehand makes the process much smoother.

Pre-Application Checklist

Before you begin the application, make sure you have the following:

• Mandatory Import-Export Code (IEC): This is a 10-digit number. The DGFT issues it to all businesses involved in import and export.
• PAN Card of the Business Entity: This is needed for tax purposes and to verify the identity of your business.
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): A DSC is needed to sign the online application form securely.
• Active Contact Details: You need a valid email address and mobile number for OTP verification and communication.

Business Registration Documents

You must provide proof of your business's legal status. The required documents depend on your business type:

• Certificate of Incorporation: For a Private or Public Limited Company.
• Partnership Deed: This legal document (Partnership Deed) is required for Partnership Firms to establish the terms and conditions between partners.
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA): For a company.
• Board Resolution: This is required for a company. It authorizes a specific person to apply for APEDA registration.

Bank Details

You need to provide your business's bank information. This is for all financial transactions. The documents needed are:

• Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque: A bank certificate proves your account details. A cancelled cheque can also be used for verification.
• Bank Statement: A recent bank statement, often for the last two months, is also needed.

Other Important Documents

• GST Registration Certificate: A copy of your GST registration. This is a must for all businesses with a turnover above the specified limit.
• Address Proof of the Business: You need a valid document to prove your business address. This can be a utility bill or a rental agreement.
• List of Directors/Partners/Proprietor: A list of all key people in the business on your company's letterhead.

The entire APEDA registration is now conducted online, allowing exporters to apply directly through the APEDA interface. The process is simple and user-friendly.

Step 1: Access the Online Portal

First, visit the portal (dgft.gov.in/CP/?opt=e-rcmc).

Step 2: Initiate Registration

Enter your crucial details, including First name, Last name, email address, mobile number, etc. Make sure all the information is correct.

Step 3: OTP Verification

An OTP will be sent to your email and mobile phone. Enter these OTPs on the website to verify your contact details.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

After verification, you will be directed to the online application form. Fill in all the required details about your business. You can save your form and return to it later if needed.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Upload the scanned copies of all the documents we discussed earlier (refer to the "Documentation and Other Required Details for APEDA Registration" section). Ensure that the documents are in the correct format, such as PDF or JPEG.

Step 6: Submit Registration Fee

Pay the mandatory government registration fee online, which is currently ₹5,900 + GST. If you are using a professional service like RegisterKaro for assistance, their fee (e.g., ₹3,500, subject to variation) would be separate.

Step 7: Generate Application Number

Once the fee is paid, an application number will be generated. This number is very important. You can use it to track the status of your application.

Step 8: Application Processing and Verification

The APEDA authorities will now review your application and documents. They will check if all the information is correct and complete. This process usually takes about 7 to 10 working days.

Step 9: Issuance of RCMC

Upon successful verification, APEDA will issue the Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC). You will be notified by email once it is ready.

Step 10: Download Certificate

You can download your RCMC from the APEDA portal. You will need your login details to access and print the certificate.

Did You Know? APEDA's AgriExchange platform allows exporters to network with buyers, access trade enquiries, and stay updated with market intelligence, further supporting your global trade efforts.

The registration fee is a one-time government charge.

• Current government fee: ₹5,900 + GST.
• Additional professional fee: ₹3,500 (may vary).
• Payment can be made online through the APEDA portal. Accepted payment methods are Net banking, credit cards, and debit cards.

Understanding the validity and renewal process is important for a smooth export business.

Validity of Your RCMC and Its Renewal Process

The APEDA Registration-cum-Membership Certificate is valid for 5 financial years. For example, a certificate issued in the 2025-2026 financial year would be valid until March 31, 2030. You must renew it before it expires to continue exporting without any interruptions. The renewal process is straightforward; you only need to pay the renewal fee online, and in most cases, you won't have to submit any new documents.

APEDA Return Filing

As a registered exporter, you must file a monthly return with APEDA. You have to submit your export details for the month. This includes the quantity and value of your exports. You must file this return even if you did not export anything in a given month (nil return). The due date is the end of the month following the reporting month.

Example: If your exports for March are completed, the return must be filed by April 30. If you did not make any exports in March, you would file a "nil return" by the same deadline.

Non-compliance with APEDA's regulations can lead to significant consequences for your business.

• Penalties: Failing to follow the rules can result in penalties. You might face fines or other punishments.
• Suspension or Cancellation: APEDA has the authority to suspend or cancel your RCMC if you:

• • Fail to file your monthly returns.
  • Misuse of the benefits granted under APEDA schemes.
  • Violate the APEDA Act in any way.

• Loss of Benefits: If your certificate is canceled, you will lose all the benefits of APEDA registration. You will no longer be eligible for financial assistance or government schemes.
• Inability to Export: With a canceled certificate, you cannot legally export any scheduled products. This will stop your business operations completely.

Once your RCMC is approved, you can track and download it online. This certificate is essential for exporting scheduled products under APEDA.

You can manage your certificate through the DGFT e-RCMC portal (dgft.gov.in/CP/?opt=e-rcmc) and also find relevant details on APEDA’s official RCMC page (apeda.gov.in/RCMC).

How to Track Your Certificate Status?

1. Visit the DGFT e-RCMC portal.
2. Log in using your IEC and registered credentials.
3. Navigate to ‘Submitted Applications’ under the e-RCMC section.
4. Check the status of your APEDA RCMC application.

How to Download Your Certificate?

1. Go to the DGFT e-RCMC portal.
2. Click on the ‘Certification’ tab in the top menu.
3. Select ‘Download Certificate’.
4. Enter your APEDA registration number and certificate number.
5. Choose the certificate type (e.g., RCMC).
6. Download the PDF version of your certificate.