What is APEDA

What is APEDA ?

APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) registration is essential for Indian exporters dealing with scheduled agricultural and processed food products. It enables exporters to obtain the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), which is mandatory for availing benefits under APEDA’s export promotion schemes.

Documents Required for APEDA Registration

To register with APEDA, exporters need to submit the following documents:

1. Import-Export Code (IEC): Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
2. Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque: A certificate from the bank confirming account details or a cancelled cheque from the business’s account.
3. Bank Account Statement: Latest two months’ statement to verify financial stability.
4. GST Registration Certificate: Proof of Goods and Services Tax registration.
5. Business Registration Proof: Depending on the business structure:
A. Companies: Certificate of Incorporation.
B.  Partnerships: Partnership deed.
C. Sole Proprietorships: Business registration proof such as GST registration or trade license.6. FSSAI Registration FSSAI

6. Registration Certificate: For businesses dealing with food products, to ensure food safety standards.
7. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): For online submission and verification.
8. Identity and Address Proof: PAN card and address proof for the applicant or the exporting entity.
9. List of Products to be Exported: Details of the products intended for export.
Note: Additional documents may be required based on the specific products being exported, such as certifications from relevant authorities for meat, dairy, or alcoholic beverages.

APEDA Registration Process

The APEDA registration process has been streamlined and is now conducted online. Here are the steps:

1. Access the DGFT Portal: Visit the DGFT e-RCMC portal as APEDA has integrated RCMC issuance with the DGFT platform.
2. Login with IEC Credentials: Use your Import-Export Code and associated credentials to log in.
3. Fill in the Application Form: Provide necessary business details, including contact information and product categories.
4. Upload Required Documents: Submit scanned copies of the aforementioned documents.
5. Pay the Registration Fee: The registration fee is ₹5,000 (excluding GST). Payment can be made online through the portal.
6. Application Verification: APEDA will verify the submitted information and documents.
7. Issuance of RCMC: Upon successful verification, the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate will be issued, which can be downloaded from the portal.

Benefits of APEDA Registration

• Mandatory Compliance: Registration is compulsory for exporting scheduled products.
• Financial Assistance: Access to APEDA’s financial assistance schemes for exporters.
• Market Development Support: Participation in trade fairs and buyer-seller meets organized by APEDA.
• Quality Assurance: Guidance on maintaining international quality standards.
• Training and Workshops: Opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills related to export activities.