What is an RCMC? Meaning, Benefits, and How to Get the Certificate

For any business looking to enter the world of international trade, a stack of crucial documents stands between them and the global market. Among these, the RCMC certificate is one of the most important for Indian exporters. It's a key to unlocking government incentives and establishing your credibility in the export ecosystem.

RCMC is a mandatory document that validates your business as a registered exporter and a member of a specific export promotion body.

This guide will demystify the RCMC meaning, explain its purpose, detail its benefits, and provide a clear, step-by-step process for obtaining and downloading your certificate from the DGFT portal.

What is RCMC? The Full Form and Meaning

The RCMC full form is Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate.

This name perfectly encapsulates its dual purpose:

• Registration: It registers your business with a government-authorized agency, certifying that you are a legitimate exporter.
• Membership: It grants you membership in a specific Export Promotion Council (EPC), Commodity Board, or Development Authority, which is responsible for promoting a particular product sector.

The RCMC is a legal requirement under India's Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) for any exporter who wishes to avail of benefits under various government schemes. It acts as a formal link between the exporter and the government, ensuring compliance and organized trade promotion.

For example, a company exporting leather goods would need to obtain its RCMC from the Council for Leather Exports (CLE). Similarly, a company exporting spices would register with the Spices Board of India.

The Purpose and Key Benefits of an RCMC Certificate

An RCMC certificate is more than just a piece of paper; it's a gateway to a host of advantages that can significantly boost an exporter's profitability and growth. Its primary purpose is to prove that you belong to a recognized export promotion body and are therefore eligible for the incentives offered by the government.

1. Access to Export Promotion Schemes

This is the most significant benefit of having an RCMC. It is a mandatory requirement to apply for and receive benefits under a range of schemes, including:

• RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products): A scheme that refunds the embedded duties and taxes on export goods.
• Duty Drawback Scheme: Allows for the refund of customs and excise duties paid on raw materials and components used in the manufacture of export products.
• Advance Authorization Scheme: Permits duty-free import of inputs required for the manufacture of export products.

Without a valid RCMC, an exporter cannot claim these crucial benefits, which can erode their profit margins.

2. Market Development and Support

As a member of an EPC, you get access to a valuable network and resources.

• Trade Fairs and Exhibitions: EPCs organize and subsidize participation in international trade fairs and exhibitions, providing a platform for exporters to showcase their products to global buyers.
• Market Intelligence: Members receive regular updates on international market trends, new trade policies, and potential business opportunities in various countries.
• Networking: It provides a platform for exporters to network with peers, share best practices, and address industry-specific challenges collectively.

3. Compliance and Credibility

An RCMC provides a layer of credibility.

• Authentication: It validates an exporter's business activity with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Customs authorities, simplifying the export process.
• Compliance: It ensures that the exporter operates within the legal framework of India's Foreign Trade Policy.

The Online Process: How to Get Your RCMC Certificate

Since 2022, the process for applying for an RCMC has become fully digital, integrated into the DGFT's online portal. This has made the process faster and more transparent.

Step 1: Obtain Your Import Export Code (IEC)

Before you can apply for an RCMC, you must have a valid IEC (Import Export Code). This 10-digit code is the fundamental requirement for any business that wants to import or export goods from India. If you don't have one, you'll need to apply for it on the DGFT portal first.

Step 2: Identify the Correct EPC

You must apply for your RCMC with the EPC, Commodity Board, or Development Authority that governs your primary line of business. The DGFT website provides a list of these authorities. If your product doesn't fall under any specific council, you can apply to the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO).

Step 3: Fill out the Online Application on the DGFT Portal

• Log in: Go to the DGFT website and log in using your IEC and the credentials linked to it (Digital Signature or Aadhaar e-sign).
• Navigate to e-RCMC: Under the 'Services' tab, select 'e-RCMC' and then 'Apply for e-RCMC.'
• Fill in Details: Complete the application form (ANF 2C) with all your business details, including your business name, address, products for export, and details of your exports over the last three financial years.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents and Pay Fees

You will need to upload digital copies of mandatory documents, which typically include:

• A copy of your IEC.
• GSTIN certificate.
• PAN card of the business.
• A certificate from a Chartered Accountant stating your export turnover for the past three years.
• Incorporation or registration documents of your business (e.g., Memorandum of Association, Partnership Deed).
• Proof of payment of the membership fee to the relevant EPC.

The membership fee varies based on the EPC and the size of your business. The payment is made online through the portal.

Step 5: Submission and Verification

After submitting the application, the concerned EPC will review your documents. If all is in order, they will issue your digital RCMC certificate. You can track the status of your application directly on the DGFT portal.

How to Check and Download the RCMC Certificate from DGFT

Once your RCMC has been approved and issued, you can easily access and download it.

Step-by-Step Process to View and Download

1. Log in to the DGFT Portal: Use your IEC and credentials to log in.
2. Go to the e-RCMC section: Navigate back to 'Services' -> 'e-RCMC.'
3. View RCMC Details: You will find an option to "View RCMC Details" or "Track your Application."
4. Download: Your approved RCMC certificate will be available for download as a PDF. It will contain all the relevant details, including your IEC number, firm name, the name of the issuing EPC, and the validity period.

RCMC Validity, Renewal, and Key Compliance

An RCMC certificate is typically issued for a period of five years, starting from April 1st of the financial year in which it was issued.

Annual Compliance

While the certificate is valid for five years, it is crucial to pay the annual membership fee to your EPC to keep your membership active. Failure to do so can result in the deactivation or cancellation of your RCMC.

Renewal

Before your RCMC certificate expires, you must apply for its renewal through the same DGFT online portal. The renewal process is similar to the initial application, requiring updated documents and payment of the renewal fee.

Key Compliance Rules

• Inform the EPC: You must inform your EPC about any major changes to your business, such as a change in your name, address, or ownership.
• File Annual Returns: All RCMC holders are required to submit an annual return of their exports to the concerned EPC by the specified deadline.

Conclusion

Understanding the RCMC meaning and its purpose is a vital first step for any aspiring Indian exporter. This certificate is the key that unlocks government benefits, ensures compliance, and provides access to valuable trade promotion resources. By following the digital application process on the DGFT portal, you can obtain your RCMC certificate and confidently navigate the export landscape, leveraging a strong support system to expand your global reach.

FAQs on RCMC Certificate

What is RCMC full form in export?

RCMC stands for Registration Cum Membership Certificate, a certificate issued by Export Promotion Councils in India.

Who issues the RCMC certificate?

RCMC is issued by Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), Commodity Boards, or FIEO.

Is RCMC mandatory for all exporters?

Yes, it is mandatory for exporters who wish to avail benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.

How can I apply for RCMC?

You can apply online via the DGFT portal by selecting the concerned Export Promotion Council.

What is the validity of RCMC?

RCMC is valid for 5 years and must be renewed thereafter.

Can one exporter register with multiple EPCs?

No, exporters should register with the council relevant to their main line of business. However, multi-product exporters can register with FIEO.

What documents are required for RCMC?

Common documents include PAN card, IEC, GST certificate, incorporation documents, and bank details.

How to download RCMC certificate from DGFT?

Login to the DGFT portal → RCMC section → Download issued certificate.

What is the difference between RCMC and IEC?

• IEC (Importer Exporter Code): Mandatory for any import-export business.
• RCMC: Membership proof with an Export Promotion Council, needed for export incentives.

Does RCMC apply to service exporters?

Yes, service exporters also need RCMC from the relevant council (e.g., ESC for IT services).