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APEDA Registration

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is an organization established by the Indian government under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Act of 1985. Its primary goal is to promote and develop the export of scheduled agricultural and processed food products from India.

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Products under APEDA's purview include

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables

  • Meat and poultry products

  • Dairy products

  • Processed foods (including confectionery, bakery products, etc.)

  • Floriculture and seeds

  • Cereal and cereal products

  • Pickles, papads, and chutneys

  • Honey, jaggery, and sugar products

  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

  • Herbal and medicinal plants

  • And many more

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Benefits of APEDA Registration

  • Mandatory for Export: APEDA registration, also known as the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), is mandatory for exporting the products listed under the APEDA Act.

  • Access to Financial Assistance: Registered exporters can access various financial assistance schemes and subsidies offered by APEDA for infrastructure development, quality improvement, and market development.

  • Market Intelligence: APEDA provides valuable market information, trade data, and analysis to help exporters make informed decisions.

  • Training and Guidance: APEDA organizes training programs and workshops for exporters to enhance their skills and knowledge of export procedures and quality standards.

  • Participation in Trade Events: RCMC holders get opportunities to participate in international trade fairs and exhibitions, facilitating business networking and market expansion.

  • Brand Promotion: APEDA assists exporters in marketing and branding their products in the international market.

  • Quality Assurance: APEDA sets standards and guidelines to ensure the quality of exported products, enhancing their global acceptance.

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Registration Procedure for APEDA (RCMC)

The registration process is primarily online through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) portal, as APEDA has integrated its RCMC issuance with the DGFT system. Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. Obtain Import-Export Code (IEC): A valid IEC from DGFT is the first requirement.

  2. Register on the DGFT Portal: If you are a new user, register on the DGFT website (https://www.dgft.gov.in/). Existing users can log in.

  3. Navigate to 'e-RCMC': Under the 'Services' tab, click on 'e-RCMC'.

  4. Apply for New RCMC: Select the option to apply for a new RCMC.

  5. Choose APEDA: From the list of Export Promotion Councils, select "Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)".

  6. Fill in the Application Form: Provide all the required details, including your IEC, company information, address, and main export products.

  7. Upload Documents: You will need to upload scanned copies of the following documents:

    • Copy of IEC certificate.

    • PAN Card of the company/firm.

    • Bank Certificate (in the prescribed format).

    • Cancelled cheque of your bank account.

    • GST Registration Certificate.

    • Company Registration Certificate/Partnership Deed/Memorandum and Articles of Association (as applicable).

    • Address proof of the business premises.

    • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the authorized person is usually required for online submission.

  8. Pay the Registration Fee: The registration fee for APEDA is typically ₹5,900 (including GST), though professional fees might be extra if you are using an intermediary. Payment can be made online through the available options.

  9. Submit the Application: After completing the form, uploading documents, and paying the fee, submit your application online.

  10. Verification and Issuance: APEDA authorities will verify the submitted information and documents. Upon successful verification, the RCMC will be issued electronically, and you can download it from the DGFT portal. The RCMC issued by APEDA is generally valid for five years.

Renewal: The RCMC needs to be renewed every five years. The renewal process is also done online through the DGFT portal with the payment of the applicable renewal fee.

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Validity of APEDA Registration:

  • Valid for lifetime, subject to periodic updates

  • Exporters must update profile details (if any change occurs) and comply with APEDA guidelines

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Additional Benefits of APEDA Registration:

  • Training programs and technical guidance

  • Branding and marketing support for products

  • Export promotion through fairs, expos, and buyer meets

  • Assistance with barcoding, packaging, HACCP, BRC, ISO certifications, etc.

  • Eligibility to avail financial assistance schemes

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Renewal?

  • APEDA registration is now valid for life—no renewal required

  • However, businesses must keep their IEC, bank, and contact details updated

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