Learn the complete RCMC registration process, fees, renewal steps, and how to apply online through the RCMC portal. Full form, certificate, and guidelines covered.
For any business to enter into an export market, they need to comply with certain rules and regulations. It is important for them to get an RCMC certificate. The RCMC full form is the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate. It is issued by Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) or Commodity Boards. Having this certificate means that a company is a recognized member of an EPC tied to its product category. Those businesses that wish to seek government incentives, international trade opportunities, and industry-specific support must complete RCMC registration as part of their export readiness process. This article will help you understand how and where Godamwale fits in this role.
There are three types of RCMC certificates: manufacturer exporters, merchant exporters, and service exporters. The EPC categorizes and issues the certificate based on the nature of the business. These categories are textiles, engineering goods, spices, chemicals, agricultural products, and more.
To avoid unnecessary delays in acquiring the certificate, the company must correctly choose in which of the categories their business falls. At times, the company may not fall in a certain category stated by EPC but may fall under the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO). Although, FIEO is the apex body that represents Indian exporters, while the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Thus, it is necessary for the company to understand in which category their business falls.
As everything has become digitized, you, as a business head, can apply for RCMC registration online. There are some mandatory documents that you need before you apply for the certificate. Documents like the IEC (Import Export Code), GST certificate, PAN card, company incorporation documents, product details, and, if applicable, even the proof of manufacturing.
Depending upon the type of industry, you may even need to produce declarations or quality certifications. To minimize the chances of delay or rejection during the verification stage, it is advisable that you make sure that all the documents are accurate and updated.
The government of India has streamlined the entire registration process, making it easier for those who wish to apply for an RCMC certificate. Follow these easy steps mentioned below:
Below is a simplified comparative table with a view to help exporters understand typical fee structures and validity periods across major EPCs. Remember the actual value of the fee structure will vary from EPC policies, membership type, and MSME status.
| Export Promotion Council (EPC) | Approx. Registration Fees (โน) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| FIEO (Federation of Indian Export Organisations) | โน7,000โโน12,000 | 5 Years |
| APEDA (Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) | โน5,900โโน10,000 | 5 Years |
| Spices Board | โน5,000โโน7,500 | 3โ5 Years |
| EEPC India (Engineering Export Promotion Council) | โน7,000โโน15,000 | 5 Years |
| CHEMEXCIL (Basic Chemicals, Cosmetics & Dyes) | โน5,900โโน12,000 | 5 Years |
| TEXPROCIL (The Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council) | โน7,000โโน10,000 | 5 Years |
Source: https://capexil.org/
There are several factors responsible for the RCMC registration fees. These include the selected EPC and the nature of the exporter, such as if you are a merchant or manufacturer. While in some cases the fees will also depend upon the turnover or MSME status. Some EPCs may also charge annual or biennial renewal fees. To avoid underpayment or miscalculation, it is advisable that you review the fee guidelines on the respective councilโs official website. You can avoid unnecessary delays and allow for a smoother application handling if you are well aware of the fee structure.
Generally, the RCMC certificate is valid for five years; however, there are a few councils that offer three years' validity. Before the certificate expires, you must apply for RCMC renewal. During renewal, you must submit updated documents, pay the renewal fees, and confirm that you wish to continue compliance with industry guidelines.
Renewal of the certificate is important so that you avoid losing your access to EPC services, export incentives, and eligibility for government schemes. It is important to apply for the renewal of the certificate before the expiry date, as it avoids the disruption in export operations, and you can participate in international trade programs.
As an exporter, you may face challenges while storing your inventories and delivering to the intended destination. Thus, you not only have challenges while applying for the RCMC certificate, but you also need to think about warehouse management and logistics support to deliver your goods.
This is where you can partner with Godamwale as you get your RCMC certificate. India is a vast country, and you need a third-party logistics partner having a vast network throughout the country to sustain your business.
Godamwale offers the necessary services that allow you to compete against your competitor in the market. The company offers real-time inventory tracking, value-added services, and export-specific storage facilities, allowing you to operate in the market smoothly.
You can trust the company, as it offers its services from first-mile pickup to the delivery to the desired ports. As a result, your goods move smoothly, reducing delay, and you can commit with RCMC commitment.
Once you get your company registered, you are guaranteed multiple benefits under the respective EPCs. These benefits include export incentive schemes, participation in trade fairs, buyer-seller meetings, training programs, and industry-specific market intelligence.
EPCs will keep you updated with global demand, compliance regulations, and product-specific standards as and when they get revised. The RCMC certification serves as official recognition, thereby boosting your companyโs credibility while dealing with international buyers and government agencies.
Although the entire portal system has been made easy, you, as an exporter, may still face challenges. Generally, these challenges are portal login failures, document mismatches, incorrect fee payments, or delays in verification. It has been observed that most of these challenges include incomplete documents or errors in application data.
Thus, it is advisable that you double-check uploaded files, ensure accurate product categorization, and verify fee payment receipts. If you happen to face any challenges, it is best that you contact the respective EPC support team or visit their regional office for a quick resolution.
If you wish to enter into an international market, then it is necessary for you to apply for an RCMC certificate. These certifications are necessary, as they provide the necessary confidence with the international market that the government has verified that you are a genuine trader. This certificate also allows you to reap benefits, and the government will also safeguard your business interest as long as you remain compliant with both domestic and international market guidelines.
Q.1) How do I start the RCMC registration process?
You can start your RCMC registration process by applying to the respective RCMC portal of your EPC.
Q.2) What documents are required for RCMC registration?
You need to produce IEC, GST certificate, PAN, incorporation documents, and product details.
Q.3) How long does it take to get an RCMC certificate?
Generally, it takes three to seven working days to get an RCMC certificate after verifying all the submitted documents.
Q.4) Is RCMC renewal compulsory?
Yes, you are required to renew your RCMC certificate every 5 years.
Q.5) Is physical document submission required?
No, the government has made the entire process for applying for RCMC easy. All you need to do is visit the portal online and submit these documents to the respective EPCs.
