Exporters' Relief: No Mandatory RCMC for Key Benefits

The DGFT announced that exporters are no longer required to hold a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate to claim benefits under duty drawback and remission-based schemes. The move simplifies the process, allowing exporters to seek benefits without the certificate, though customs and excise advantages may still require it.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has simplified procedural requirements for exporters seeking benefits under schemes like duty drawback and remission of state levies. According to a recent announcement, the Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is no longer mandatory to access these benefits.

Previously, exporters needed an RCMC, issued by export promotion councils and commodity boards, to avail benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy. This certificate facilitated ease in claiming customs and excise advantages. However, the DGFT clarified that for remission-based schemes such as duty drawback, RoSCTL, and RoDTEP, this requirement does not apply.

In additional guidance, the DGFT stated that imports and re-imports of samples for exhibitions or demonstrations will not need import authorization, provided other compliance checks are met. This regulatory change aims to ease the business operations of exporters, particularly those engaging in international trade fairs.

(With inputs from agencies.)