New Delhi: The Government has introduced an RCMC exemption for export consignments worth up to ₹3 lakh. The move aims to cut compliance for small and new exporters.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade amended Para 2.57 of the Foreign Trade Policy, 2023. Under the change, exporters will not need an RCMC or Certificate of Registration for eligible consignments.
The exemption applies where such a certificate would otherwise be required under the Foreign Trade Policy. However, consignments above ₹3 lakh will still require the relevant certificate wherever applicable.
The Government said the RCMC exemption would make it easier for businesses to start exporting. It will also support exports through Postal, Courier and other emerging channels.
Data from 2021-22 to 2025-26 showed the importance of small-value exports. Consignments worth up to USD 3,000 accounted for 43 percent of shipping bills.
However, those consignments represented only 0.86 percent of India’s total merchandise export value. Therefore, the exemption can cover many transactions while having a limited effect on overall export value.
RCMC exemption opens a simpler route for new exporters
Previously, exporters generally had to obtain an RCMC or Certificate of Registration from the relevant Export Promotion Council or Commodity Board. The requirement applied wherever the Foreign Trade Policy prescribed it.
For new and occasional exporters, the process added another compliance step. They had to identify the correct registering body, submit documents and complete registration before exporting.
The RCMC exemption removes that initial requirement for eligible small-value consignments. As a result, MSMEs, artisans, entrepreneurs and small businesses can explore overseas markets with fewer initial formalities.
The change will also help first-time exporters build an export record. In addition, it can support businesses using e-commerce, Postal, Courier and other emerging export channels.
As businesses expand, their consignments may cross the ₹3 lakh limit. At that stage, exporters can obtain membership of the relevant Export Promotion Council or Commodity Board.
They can then access export promotion programmes, market access initiatives and other institutional support. The Government said the measure could also encourage wider participation in these bodies.
The existing framework for larger exports remains unchanged. The RCMC or Certificate of Registration requirement will continue for consignments above ₹3 lakh wherever it otherwise applies.
The Government said the policy would help broaden India’s export base. It also aims to reduce compliance costs and make international markets more accessible to emerging businesses.
