CEPC Registration - Get Carpet Export Promotion Council Certificate

The Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC) is India’s apex body responsible for promoting the export of handmade carpets and floor coverings. The Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, established CEPC in 1982 as a non-profit organization. Since its establishment, CEPC has worked to assist exporters and represent the Indian carpet industry across various platforms.

CEPC represents over 2,000 members across the country, including manufacturers, merchant exporters, and allied trade businesses. Its head office is located in Jasola, New Delhi, and it has a registered office in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The council also maintains regional offices in Bhadohi (Uttar Pradesh) and Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir), which are two of India's most important carpet-producing regions.

India currently holds around 35% of the total world import share of handmade carpets, showing strong international demand. The CEPC plays an important role in maintaining and strengthening this position over time. CEPC facilitates connections between Indian exporters and international buyers through structured trade events and verified business networking platforms globally. It also provides trade intelligence, organizes international exhibitions, and guides exporters on government policies and compliance requirements.

CEPC registration is the process of becoming an official member of the Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC). When you complete the registration, CEPC issues the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) for your business operations. This certificate serves as official proof that your business is a registered member under CEPC India.

RCMC Registration is mandatory for individuals or companies planning to export handmade carpets, rugs, dhurries, and other floor coverings. The certificate is valid for five years, but you must renew the annual subscription every year to keep your membership active. Without a valid RCMC, you cannot claim export benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) of India. Banks, customs authorities, and government departments accept the RCMC certificate as valid proof during export and financial processes.

Objectives of CEPC Registration

The CEPC registration process serves several important objectives that support both exporters and the overall industry growth. It:

• Promotes Indian carpets in global markets by supporting exporters with structured promotional activities and events.
• Ensures exporters follow quality standards and maintain consistency in production and delivery processes.
• Provides a platform for exporters to connect with international buyers and expand their business opportunities.
• Facilitates access to government export incentives and schemes designed to support exporters financially.
• Strengthens India's position as a leading exporter of handmade carpets in the international market.

CEPC registration provides several practical advantages for businesses engaged in carpet exports from India to international markets. The key benefits of obtaining CEPC registration are:

a. Access to Government Export Schemes

Once you hold an RCMC from CEPC, you become eligible for major government export incentives. These include the Duty Drawback scheme, the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP), and the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme. These schemes help you reduce costs and improve profit margins on every export shipment.

b. Participation in International Trade Fairs

CEPC regularly organizes and facilitates participation in leading international trade fairs and exhibitions across the world. As a registered member, you get the opportunity to showcase your carpets to global buyers in markets like Europe, the USA, and the Middle East. This kind of exposure is extremely valuable for any exporter looking to grow internationally.

c. Market Information and Export Intelligence

CEPC shares regular updates on global market trends, buyer demand, export policies, and price benchmarks with its members. This information helps you make smarter decisions about which markets to target and how to price your products competitively.

d. Visa Recommendation Letters

The Carpet Export Promotion Council issues recommendation letters to members who need to travel abroad for business purposes. This support simplifies the visa application process for exporters attending meetings, exhibitions, or trade events.

e. Legal and Trade Issue Support

CEPC India works with government authorities to address trade-related challenges, including duties and non-tariff barriers affecting exports. This support helps protect the interests of registered exporters in international markets.

f. Credibility with International Buyers

Being a CEPC-registered member instantly adds credibility to your business profile. International buyers prefer dealing with exporters who are officially recognized by a government-backed body, as it signals reliability and compliance.

The Carpet Export Promotion Council recognizes two primary categories of members under its RCMC registration framework. The category assigned depends on the nature of the business and the documents submitted during the registration process. The categories are as follows:

• Manufacturer Exporter: This category is for businesses that manufacture carpets, rugs, floor coverings, or allied products on their own premises and then export them directly. To register under this category, you must provide proof of your manufacturing facility, such as an MSME registration, DIC registration, or Udyog Aadhaar.
• Merchant Exporter: This category covers businesses that do not manufacture carpets themselves but purchase them from manufacturers and then export them. Merchant exporters act as trading intermediaries between domestic producers and international buyers.

Both categories of members have equal access to CEPC's schemes, trade fairs, market information, and government benefits. The distinction only affects which supporting documents you need to submit at the time of application.

Before you apply for CEPC registration online, you must make sure your business meets the basic eligibility requirements. The eligibility criteria for CEPC registration include the following key conditions for applicants:

• The business must be engaged in manufacturing or exporting handmade carpets, rugs, dhurries, knotted carpets, or other floor covering products.
• A valid Import Export Code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is required for all applicants.
• The business must be registered under GST and must hold a valid Goods and Services Tax Identification Number.
• The applicant must operate through a legally recognized business structure, such as a proprietorship, partnership firm, LLP, or company.
• Manufacturer exporters must provide proof of a manufacturing unit, such as an MSME registration certificate or factory registration document.
• The applicant must not be blacklisted by any government authority and must submit an affidavit confirming the same.

Failure to meet these conditions may result in delays or rejection of the application by the Carpet Export Promotion Council.

The following documents are required when businesses apply for CEPC RCMC registration:

Note: Make sure all documents are self-attested and accurate before submission to avoid delays.

Applications are submitted through the DGFT e-RCMC portal and approved by CEPC. The step-by-step procedure for CEPC registration is outlined below:

• Create or Log In to Your DGFT Account: Visit the official DGFT portal at dgft.gov.in. If you already have an account, log in using your IEC code and credentials. If you are a new user, register on the portal by providing your IEC and basic business details.
• Navigate to the e-RCMC Section: Once logged in, go to the "Services" section and look for the "Apply for e-RCMC" option. Click on it to start a fresh application.
• Confirm Profile Details: The portal will display your basic business details linked to your IEC. Confirm that all information is accurate and up to date. If any details need correction, update your profile before proceeding.
• Select CEPC as the Registering Authority: In the Export Promotion Council selection field, choose "Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC)" from the dropdown list. This confirms that you are applying for CEPC RCMC specifically.
• Select Your Export Products: Select the product categories that your business exports, such as handmade carpets, rugs, dhurries, knotted carpets, or other floor coverings. Click "Add" to save your product details.
• Upload Required Documents: Upload all required documents in the specified format. Ensure that each document is clear, properly scanned, and self-attested where required.
• Pay the Membership Fee: Pay the applicable membership fee online through the portal. Payment can also be made via NEFT, RTGS, or UPI directly to CEPC's bank account.
• Submit and Track Your Application: Review all the information, accept the terms and conditions, and submit your application. You will receive a confirmation with your application reference number. Use the reference number to track the status of your RCMC certificate.
• Receive Your CEPC RCMC Certificate: Once CEPC verifies your documents and approves the application, the RCMC certificate will be issued and sent to your registered email address. You can also download it directly from the DGFT portal.

Once you complete the CEPC registration process, you can focus on growing your carpet export business. For expert guidance, accurate document preparation, and end-to-end support, contact us for a simplified and efficient CEPC registration.

The CEPC membership fee structure is based on your annual export turnover. For new members with exports below ₹50 lakhs, the total fee is ₹4,720 (including an entrance fee of ₹2,360 and a membership subscription of ₹2,360, both inclusive of 18% GST).

For businesses with exports above ₹50 lakhs, the annual membership subscription varies as follows:

Note: New members also pay a one-time entrance fee of ₹2,360 (inclusive of GST) in addition to the annual subscription. A late fee of ₹500 + GST applies if membership fees are paid after the due date.

The CEPC RCMC certificate is valid for a period of 5 years from the date of issue. However, membership must be renewed annually by paying the applicable membership subscription fee. If you do not renew your membership on time, your certificate may become inactive, and you may lose access to government export benefits.

For each financial year, CEPC issues a circular specifying the annual membership subscription, renewal deadlines, and any applicable late fees. For the year 2025–26, the Ministry of Commerce approved revised subscription amounts, effective from June 2025. For the financial year 2025–26, the annual renewal fee is ₹7,080, which includes:

• Membership fee: ₹6,000
• GST (18%): ₹1,080

Payments must be made exclusively through the DGFT portal, as other payment modes such as cheque, demand drafts, or bank gateways are not accepted.

Tip: It is essential to refer to the latest CEPC circular or the DGFT portal for the current year's fee structure and renewal deadlines.

CEPC RCMC Certificate Renewal Process

Renewing your CEPC RCMC certificate is simple and can be done online through the DGFT portal. Follow these steps for renewal:

• Log in to the DGFT portal using your IEC credentials.
• Navigate to the "e-RCMC" section and select the renewal option.
• Submit an export turnover certificate from a Chartered Accountant for the previous financial year, certifying the FOB (Free on Board) value of your handmade carpet exports.
• Pay the applicable annual membership subscription based on your export turnover category.
• Submit the renewal application and download the updated RCMC once approved.

It is advisable to complete the renewal process well before the deadline to avoid the late fee and any interruption in your export benefits.

Once your CEPC RCMC registration is approved, you can download your certificate directly from the DGFT portal. Log in with your IEC credentials, go to the "e-RCMC" section, and download the certificate in PDF format. The certificate will also be sent to your registered email address after successful verification by CEPC.

Keep a digital and physical copy of the certificate safely, as you will need it for customs clearance, bank transactions, and government scheme applications.

After you complete CEPC registration and obtain your RCMC, you become eligible for several important government schemes designed to support Indian exporters. Here are the key schemes available for CEPC members:

• Duty Drawback Scheme: This scheme allows carpet exporters to claim a refund of customs and central excise duties paid on raw materials used in the production of exported goods. CEPC provides its members with the latest drawback rates and guides them through the claim process.
• RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products): Under RoDTEP, exporters receive a refund of embedded central, state, and local taxes that are not refunded through any other scheme. CEPC members can access the applicable RoDTEP rates for carpet products and claim this benefit to reduce their export costs.
• EPCG (Export Promotion Capital Goods) Scheme: This scheme allows carpet exporters to import capital goods required for production at zero customs duty. In return, you must fulfill a specified export obligation over a defined period. CEPC assists members in understanding and complying with EPCG conditions.
• Market Access Initiative (MAI) Scheme: CEPC uses the MAI scheme to fund participation in international trade fairs and exhibitions. As a registered member, you can benefit from subsidized stall space and participation costs at global events, reducing the financial burden of international marketing.
• Buyer-Seller Meets and Trade Delegations: CEPC organizes and facilitates buyer-seller meets both in India and abroad. Registered members get priority access to these events, where they can meet international buyers, negotiate deals, and build long-term business relationships.

For any queries related to CEPC registration, membership, or export assistance, the council can be contacted directly through the following offices:

Working Office (New Delhi): The Carpet Export Promotion Council operates from 507, Copia Corporate Suites, Jasola, New Delhi – 110025.

• Phone: +91-11-45089420
• Email: info@cepc[dot]co[dot]in

Registered Office (Noida, U.P.): The council maintains its registered office at Shree Jee Complex, Shop No. T3, Sharma Market, Harola, Noida, Distt. Gautam Budh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Regional Office – Bhadohi (U.P.): The Bhadohi regional office functions from Bhadohi Carpet Expo Mart, Carpet City, Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh – 221401, India.

• Phone: +91-5414-225975
• Email: bhadohi@cepc[dot]co[dot]in

Regional Office – Srinagar (J&K): The Srinagar regional office operates from IICT Campus, Bhaghi Ali Mardan Khan, Nowshera, Srinagar – 190011 (J&K), India.

• Phone: +91-194-2420001
• Email: srinagar@cepc[dot]co[dot]in

For queries specifically related to RCMC registration, the council can be reached at: registration@cepc[dot]co[dot]in.