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Maximising Export Success with FIEO and RCMC

The Ministry of Commerce, the Government of India, and the private trade and industry segment set up the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) in 1965. It represents and assists Indian entrepreneurs and exporters in foreign markets. FIEO, the premier body of all export promotion councils, commodity boards, and export development authorities in India, serves as the crucial interface between the international trading community of India and the central and state governments, financial institutions, ports, railways, surface transport, and all others engaged in export trade facilitation. It serves the interests of approximately 200,000 exporters in the goods and services sector of the country, both directly and indirectly. Its prime function is to promote international trade, representing and assisting entrepreneurs and exporters in foreign markets.

Consequently, FIEO actively works to expand and enhance the Indian market and exports. The organisation represents the interests of government-recognised exporting firms, such as Export House, Star Export House, and Trading House. FIEO is not just involved in promoting the export of merchandise but also in promoting the export of services. 

Apply for FIEO Registration

FIEO is an indicator for all Indian businesses involved in the export-import market. It regulates all export-related organisations in India, acting as a partner for the Government of India in promoting exports through FIEO registration. FIEO registration provides businesses with multiple benefits, including global exposure and comprehensive guidance on key areas of foreign trade like the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), with various concessions to MSMEs.

As an ISO 9001:2015 certified organisation, FIEO ensures high-quality service to its members, associates, and stakeholders, who contribute to more than 70 per cent of Indian exports.

As a close partner of the international trading community, FIEO:

• Facilitates the resolution of exporters' problems by addressing them with the relevant authorities.
• Provides exporters with opportunities to engage with FIEO experts to discuss international trade matters, seek policy clarifications, and more.
• FIEO offers access to updated trade policies, connections to global trade promotion organisations, and other resources.
• They manage open house meetings with top government authorities to highlight important trade issues and expedite their resolution.
• FIEO collaborates with various academic institutions nationwide to foster better academia-industry understanding, aiming to cultivate quality human resources aligned with international trade. It conducts specialised training, awareness programmes, seminars, and workshops for export executives and entrepreneurs to promote entrepreneurship in foreign business. 
• The FIEO website features an updated and searchable directory of exporters, providing easy access to vital information about exporting companies.

Additionally, it allows professionals and freshers to upload their resumes on the FIEO website, granting members free access to this niche database for recruitment purposes, with the option for members to post job vacancies on the FIEO website at no cost.

What is RCMC in export, and who issues it?

RCMC stands for Registration-cum-Membership Certificate. Export promotion councils (EPCs) or commodity boards in India issue RCMC, which stands for Registration-cum-Membership Certificate, a crucial document for exporters. Here is what it entails:

• RCMC signifies registration and membership in a specific export promotion council or board.
• It serves as proof of registration with the relevant council or board for exporters.
• It is essential for availing various benefits, incentives, and concessions available to exporters from the government.
• Exporters must obtain RCMC before exporting goods from India.
• It is an integral part of the export documentation process, demonstrating compliance with export regulations.
• The Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) or Commodity Boards in India issue RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) for exports.

Why register for RCMC?

Registering for RCMC serves several purposes:

• Firstly, it grants authorisation for importing or exporting products under the restricted category, per the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP).
• Secondly, it is proof of an exporter's membership or registration with a specific EPC, commodity board, or export development authority.
• Thirdly, it is essential for accessing FTP concessions on restricted goods. 

What are the benefits of RCMC?

Benefits of RCMC

Acquiring a Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) provides numerous advantages to exporters:

• Access to export promotion schemes and benefits: RCMC is mandatory for accessing export promotion schemes like Duty Drawback, MEIS, and MAI.
• Facilitates import and export: RCMC streamlines the import/export process for restricted goods by validating the exporter's authenticity and product legitimacy.
• Smoother customs clearance: RCMC reduces time and effort for customs clearance by confirming the exporter's membership and compliance with regulations.
• Enhanced credibility: RCMC boosts the exporter's credibility by demonstrating adherence to government regulations and standards.
• Access to market information: RCMC allows exporters to stay informed about market trends through activities organised by Export Promotion Councils and Commodity Boards.

Who are the registering authorities of the RCMC?

RCMC Registering Authorities

• The DGFT empowers registering authorities to issue the RCMC certificate. These include export promotion councils, commodity boards, and export development authorities.
• Their vital role is to foster the growth of the Indian export industry, each focusing on promoting specific product groups.
• Currently, the DGFT authorises 35 organisations to issue RCMC certificates. These comprise 27 Export Promotion Councils, six commodity boards, and two development authorities dedicated to promoting the import and export of restricted items.

What are export promotion councils?

Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) are non-profit organisations established by the Government of India to promote and facilitate exports from the country. 

Here is what they entail:

• EPCs are industry-specific bodies formed to promote and develop the export of particular products or product groups.
• They serve as platforms for exporters within specific industries to collaborate, share information, and address common challenges.
• EPCs undertake various activities to boost exports, such as organising trade fairs, exhibitions, buyer-seller meets, and seminars.
• They also provide market intelligence, guidance on export procedures, and assistance in resolving trade-related issues.
• EPCs work closely with government agencies, policymakers, and trade bodies to advocate for export-friendly policies and initiatives.

Overall, EPCs play a crucial role in enhancing the competitiveness of Indian exports and expanding market opportunities for exporters.

What are some significant EPC projects, and where can I find more information about them?

1. Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is a regulatory body overseeing the export of agricultural and processed food products.
2. Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC)
3. Basic Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics Export Promotion Council (CHEMEXCIL) is an organisation dedicated to promoting the export of basic chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
4. Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC)
5. Chemicals and Allied Products Export Promotion Council (CAPEXIL)
6. Council for Leather Exports (CLE)
7. The Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) is committed to fostering the export of electronics and computer software.
8. Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC)
9. Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC)
10. Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (PHARMEXCIL)
11. Wool and Woollens Export Promotion Council (WWEPC)

In conclusion, partnering with FIEO for RCMC (Registration Cum Membership Certificate) simplification significantly boosts export confidence. By streamlining bureaucratic processes, FIEO empowers businesses to focus on their core competencies and expand their global footprint. This collaboration enhances efficiency, promotes competitiveness, and fosters growth in the international trade arena. Through simplified RCMC procedures, FIEO enables exporters to navigate regulatory complexities seamlessly, ultimately contributing to the advancement of India's export sector on a global scale.