INDIA

Export business services registration and certification compliances

## Services for Export Businesses in India  

India provides a range of services to assist businesses in exporting goods and services worldwide. These services aim to simplify the export process and ensure compliance with domestic and international regulations. Below is a categorized overview of key services, certifications, and registrations required for exporters and manufacturers.  

### **I. Essential Registrations and Certifications**  

1. **Import Export Code (IEC):**  

   - Mandatory registration for all exporters and importers in India.  

   - Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).  

2. **Goods and Services Tax (GST) Registration:**  

   - Exporters must register for GST to claim refunds on input taxes.  

3. **RCMC (Registration Cum Membership Certificate):**  

   - Issued by Export Promotion Councils (EPCs).  

   - Required for availing benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.  

4. **FSSAI License:**  

   - For exporters of food products.  

   - Ensures compliance with food safety standards.  

5. **BIS Certification (Bureau of Indian Standards):**  

   - Ensures product quality standards for specific goods.  

6. **APEDA Registration:**  

   - Required for exporting agricultural and processed food products.  

   - Facilitates market access and promotional support.  

7. **SEZ Registration:**  

   - For businesses operating in Special Economic Zones (SEZs).  

   - Offers tax exemptions and relaxed compliance requirements.  

### **II. Financial and Credit Services**  

1. **Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC):**  

   - Provides credit insurance to protect exporters against payment risks.  

2. **Banking Services for Exporters:**  

   - Pre-shipment and post-shipment finance.  

   - Foreign currency accounts and letters of credit.  

3. **Duty Drawback Scheme:**  

   - Refunds customs duty paid on imported inputs used for export production.  

4. **Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme:**  

   - Allows import of capital goods for export production with duty exemption.  

5. **Interest Equalization Scheme (IES):**  

   - Offers interest rate subsidies on pre- and post-shipment export credit.  

### **III. Compliance and Trade Facilitation**  

1. **DGFT Services:**  

   - Easing compliance with the Foreign Trade Policy.  

   - Issuance of export licenses and certificates.  

2. **Customs Clearance:**  

   - Assistance with Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) for quick clearance.  

   - Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status for faster processing.  

3. **Country-Specific Certifications:**  

   - Certificates of origin, phytosanitary certificates, and halal certifications.  

4. **Quality Testing and Inspection:**  

   - Conducted by agencies like NABL-accredited labs.  

### **IV. Market Access and Promotion**  

1. **Export Promotion Councils (EPCs):**  

   - Sector-specific councils that support exporters with market intelligence, trade fairs, and buyer-seller meets.  

2. **India Trade Portal:**  

   - A comprehensive platform for export opportunities and market analysis.  

3. **Market Development Assistance (MDA):**  

   - Financial support for marketing activities abroad.  

4. **Trade Agreements and Benefits:**  

   - Leveraging Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) for tariff reductions.  

### **V. Technology and Support Services**  

1. **Digital Export Platforms:**  

   - Support for selling through online marketplaces like Amazon Global and Alibaba.  

2. **E-Sanchit:**  

   - Paperless trade documentation system for exporters.  

3. **Training and Skill Development:**  

   - Provided by institutions like the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT).  

### **Actionable Recommendations for Exporters and Manufacturers**  

1. Obtain **IEC and RCMC** as initial steps.  

2. Explore specific schemes like **EPCG** and **duty drawback** for cost reduction.  

3. Maintain compliance with **sector-specific certifications** such as FSSAI or BIS.  

4. Use **digital tools** like E-Sanchit and DGFT's online services for smooth operations.  

5. Engage with **Export Promotion Councils** for insights and networking opportunities.  

### **Key Limitations**  

- **High compliance costs:** Small businesses may face challenges due to initial costs.  

- **Complex procedures:** Navigating multiple agencies can be time-consuming.  

- **Trade barriers:** Exporters need to be aware of country-specific regulations and tariffs.  

By addressing these challenges and utilizing the available services, exporters and manufacturers can efficiently expand their global presence.