- You can apply for APEDA RCMC yourself through the DGFT e-RCMC portal. A consultant can save time by helping with document preparation, product selection and application follow-up.
- Government fee: ₹5,900 (₹5,000 + 18% GST), as stated in APEDA’s circular. Consultant fees are charged separately.
- 2026 update: From 15 September 2026, consignments up to ₹3 lakh FOB are stated to be exempt from the RCMC requirement. Verify the latest official notification to confirm eligibility and conditions.
- Before hiring a consultant: Request a written scope of work and fee quote. Keep control of your DGFT login credentials and digital signature.
Introduction
An APEDA RCMC consultant in India helps prepare and file your Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) application through the DGFT e-RCMC portal. They check your IEC details and product coverage, review documents, assist with filing and payment, and follow up on application queries.
The stated government fee is ₹5,900 (₹5,000 plus 18% GST), as per APEDA’s circular, and the certificate is valid for 5 years, subject to applicable rules. The claimed exemption for shipments up to ₹3 lakh FOB, effective from 15 September 2026, should be verified against the latest official notification.
Silvereye Certifications offers APEDA RCMC consultant support, from document review to certificate download, with a written fee quote before work begins.
What Does an APEDA RCMC Consultant in India Do?
APEDA, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, registers exporters of its scheduled products and issues a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC). Since 17 July 2023, applications have been processed through the DGFT e-RCMC portal, following DGFT Trade Notice 35/2021-22. An APEDA RCMC consultant in India helps prepare and submit the application or guides exporters through the process.
The term “consultant” can refer to an individual filing agent or a compliance firm that also assists with FSSAI, IEC and export documentation. Before hiring one, check the exact scope of work: who verifies product coverage, prepares documents, submits the application, handles queries from the registering authority and provides the final certificate.
APEDA RCMC at a Glance
| Point | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Certificate | Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) for APEDA-scheduled products |
| Application portal | DGFT e-RCMC portal |
| Prerequisite | Valid Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT |
| Government fee | ₹5,900 (₹5,000 + ₹900 GST at 18%), as stated in APEDA’s circular; verify the current fee before applying |
| Validity | 5 years, subject to the applicable rules and the certificate’s terms |
| Exporter categories | Merchant exporter, manufacturer exporter and manufacturer-cum-merchant exporter |
| Is a consultant mandatory? | No. Eligible exporters can apply directly; a consultant is optional |
Do You Need an APEDA RCMC Consultant in India?
Many exporters can apply independently. APEDA provides a route to apply through the DGFT e-RCMC portal once the exporter has a valid IEC. Whether you need an APEDA RCMC consultant in India depends on your product range, documents, available time and familiarity with the portal.
| Factor | Applying Yourself | Using an APEDA RCMC Consultant |
|---|---|---|
| Single-product exporter with complete records | Manageable if the documents are ready | May be useful for a final review |
| Multiple product groups or unclear coverage | You must identify the correct products and authority | Helps review product coverage before filing |
| Manufacturer requiring manufacturing proof | You must identify the appropriate supporting documents | Helps identify the documents applicable to each product group |
| Incorrect or outdated IEC details | You must correct the profile before proceeding | Can review the IEC profile before filing |
| Queries from the registering authority | You handle the responses yourself | Can help track and respond to queries |
| Cost | Government fee, if applicable | Government fee plus professional charges |
| Login and digital signature control | Remain under your control | Should remain under your control |
If your application is straightforward and your documents are ready, you may not need a consultant. If your product coverage is unclear, your manufacturing documents need review or you expect difficulties with the portal, professional assistance may help reduce errors and rework.
Who Is Eligible for an APEDA RCMC?
Businesses exporting APEDA-scheduled products can apply for an RCMC, subject to the applicable eligibility requirements and a valid IEC. Exporter categories include merchant exporters, manufacturers and manufacturer-cum-merchant exporters. The relevant registering authority generally depends on the exporter's main line of business and the products involved.
APEDA's scheduled product categories include:
| Scheduled Products — Part 1 | Scheduled Products — Part 2 | Scheduled Products — Part 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Fruits, vegetables and their products | Cocoa, cocoa products and chocolates | Floriculture and floriculture products |
| Meat and meat products | Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages | Herbal and medicinal plants |
| Poultry and poultry products | Cereal and cereal products | De-oiled rice bran |
| Dairy products | Groundnuts, peanuts and walnuts | Green pepper in brine |
| Confectionery, biscuits and bakery products | Pickles, papads and chutneys | Cashew nuts and their products |
| Honey, jaggery and sugar products | Guar gum | Basmati rice, as covered by the APEDA Act |
Products administered by other authorities, such as the Spices Board or a relevant commodity-specific council, may require registration with that authority. An APEDA RCMC does not automatically cover products regulated by other bodies.
What Is New for APEDA RCMC in 2026?
Before hiring an APEDA RCMC consultant, review relevant policy changes and programme requirements. The following updates should be checked against the latest official APEDA and DGFT publications before relying on them.
Is There an RCMC Exemption for Shipments up to ₹3 Lakh?
The draft information refers to DGFT Notification 36/2026-27, dated 15 September 2026, which reportedly amended paragraph 2.57 of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023. It states that export consignments with an FOB value of up to ₹3,00,000 are exempt from the RCMC or Certificate of Registration requirement where that requirement would otherwise apply.
The reported exemption is based on the value of an individual consignment, not annual turnover. Confirm the notification's wording, scope and effective date through an official DGFT source before publishing or making a registration decision. Product-specific requirements and programme conditions may still apply separately.
| Your Situation | What to Check | Could a Consultant Help? |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional small consignments up to ₹3 lakh FOB | Confirm whether the exemption applies to your product and shipment | Can help interpret the applicable requirements |
| Regular consignments above ₹3 lakh FOB | Check whether an RCMC is required for your export activity | Can help with application preparation |
| Applying for APEDA programmes | Review each programme's eligibility conditions | Can help check category and documentation requirements |
| Product-specific requirements, such as traceability or packhouse recognition | Check the relevant scheme and authority separately | Can help identify additional requirements |
A reliable APEDA RCMC consultant should assess your export activity and explain whether registration is required before recommending a paid application service.
How Does APEDA RCMC Relate to the BHARATI Programme?
APEDA's BHARATI programme has its own membership and eligibility conditions. The draft information indicates that non-APEDA members may need to obtain an APEDA RCMC in the appropriate category before progressing to the acceleration phase. Check the latest official programme guidelines to confirm the current requirements for your applicant category.
What Is the Bharat Krishi Niryat Yojana Update for 2026–2031?
The draft information states that APEDA published a request for proposals on 20 July 2026 to hire a Project Management Unit for the Bharat Krishi Niryat Yojana, covering the 2026–27 to 2030–31 period. A request for proposals does not, by itself, establish final eligibility requirements for exporters. Check APEDA's official notices for confirmed scheme guidelines before relying on them.
What Are the Benefits of Having an APEDA RCMC?
Before hiring an APEDA RCMC consultant, understand what the certificate offers. The following benefits relate to registration, programme eligibility and the application process.
- Recognised registration: The APEDA RCMC confirms that your business is registered with APEDA for its scheduled products.
- Export compliance: An RCMC may be required where applicable under the Foreign Trade Policy. Verify the reported ₹3 lakh FOB exemption against the latest official DGFT notification.
- Access to APEDA programmes: Some programmes, including BHARATI, may require eligible applicants to hold a valid APEDA RCMC.
- Five-year validity: The certificate has a stated validity of five years, subject to the applicable rules and certificate conditions.
- Online application: The DGFT e-RCMC portal provides an electronic application process, with issuance procedures described in DGFT's help documentation.
What Services Should an APEDA RCMC Consultant in India Provide?
Before hiring an APEDA RCMC consultant, request a written scope of work. The following table outlines the services to discuss and your responsibilities during the process.
| Service | What It Involves | Your Role |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility and product coverage check | Confirming whether your products fall under APEDA and identifying the appropriate exporter category | Share your product list and HS codes |
| IEC profile review | Checking IEC details, PAN and address information against supporting documents | Provide accurate business details |
| Document review | Reviewing signed and sealed copies and the applicable manufacturing proof | Provide clear, complete documents |
| Application preparation and filing | Completing the e-RCMC form and uploading attachments | Review the application and complete required declarations and signatures |
| Query handling | Tracking the application and assisting with responses to the registering authority | Answer business-specific questions |
| Certificate delivery | Downloading the issued RCMC and sharing its validity details | Store the certificate safely |
| Post-registration support | Assisting with amendments and renewal reminders | Inform the consultant when business details change |
What Documents Are Required for APEDA RCMC Registration?
APEDA's published instructions specify documents according to the exporter category. An APEDA RCMC consultant can help review these documents before submission.
| Exporter Type | Documents Listed in APEDA's Instructions |
|---|---|
| Merchant exporter | Signed and sealed copy of the Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT |
| Manufacturer or manufacturer-cum-merchant exporter | Signed and sealed copy of the IEC, plus signed and sealed manufacturing proof applicable to the product |
Which Manufacturing Proof Is Required for Each Product Group?
The supporting documents may vary by product category. Confirm the current requirements with APEDA before filing.
| Product Group | Certifying Agency or Document Mentioned in the Draft Requirements |
|---|---|
| Floriculture and seeds | Department of Horticulture |
| Fresh fruits and vegetables | FSSAI, Udyam registration, Department of Horticulture or MSME certificate, as applicable |
| Groundnuts, pulses and guar gum | FSSAI or Udyam registration certificate, as applicable |
| Processed fruits and vegetables, processed food, meat products, cereal preparations and miscellaneous preparations | FSSAI or Udyam registration certificate, as applicable |
| Meat, dairy, poultry and honey | FSSAI or Udyam registration certificate, as applicable |
| Cereals and cereal products | FSSAI or Udyam registration certificate, as applicable |
| Alcoholic beverages | Relevant excise authority documentation, as applicable |
Also keep your digital signature or Aadhaar e-Sign access, authorised signatory details, export product list and destination countries ready where required by the portal.
How Does an APEDA RCMC Consultant Complete the Registration Process?
The following steps are based on the described DGFT e-RCMC workflow. An APEDA RCMC consultant can guide you through the application, but you should review the details before submission.
- Confirm product coverage and exporter category: Identify whether you are applying as a merchant exporter, manufacturer exporter or manufacturer-cum-merchant exporter.
- Check your IEC and DGFT profile: Ensure your IEC is valid and your business details are up to date.
- Log in to DGFT: Visit dgft.gov.in and navigate to Services → e-RCMC → Apply for e-RCMC.
- Start the application: Select APEDA as the registering authority and enter the required details.
- Review product and office details: Check the applicable fee, select the relevant office where required and add your export products.
- Enter business information: Add authorised representatives, contact details, destination countries, firm information and website details where requested.
- Upload documents: Attach the required signed and sealed IEC copy and applicable manufacturing proof.
- Review and sign: Check the application summary, accept the declaration and complete the required digital signing process.
- Pay the applicable fee: Use the payment gateway and save the payment receipt.
- Track the application: Check the application status through the dashboard, respond to any queries and download the RCMC once it is issued.
Portal labels and workflows may change. Follow the instructions displayed in your current DGFT account.
What Are the APEDA RCMC Consultant Fees?
An APEDA RCMC consultant fee quote may include the government registration payment and the consultant's professional charges. Ask for these amounts to be listed separately.
| Cost | Amount or Basis | Who Receives It? |
|---|---|---|
| APEDA RCMC registration fee before GST | ₹5,000, as stated in APEDA's circular | Government |
| GST at 18% | ₹900, calculated on ₹5,000 | Government |
| Total stated government payment | ₹5,900 | Paid through the portal |
| Amendment or modification after issue | Stated as no fee under the cited APEDA instructions; verify current rules | Not applicable if no fee applies |
| Consultant's professional fee | Varies by provider and scope of work | Consultant |
Professional charges vary, so request a written quotation that clearly explains the services included, additional charges and payment terms. The government fee should match the amount displayed on the official DGFT payment page. Always confirm the latest fee and applicable rules before paying.
What Is the APEDA RCMC Validity and Renewal Timeline?
APEDA’s circular states that the APEDA RCMC is valid for 5 years. DGFT’s e-RCMC help file explains that the certificate is issued for five financial years, deemed valid from 1 April of the licensing year of issue to 31 March, unless otherwise specified. Always check the validity dates printed on your certificate.
| Stage | Suggested Timeline | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| Gather documents and confirm product coverage | 2–5 working days | Planning estimate; depends on document readiness |
| Submit the application through DGFT | Same day, if documents are ready | Includes digital signing and payment |
| Application review and issuance | Commonly reported as 7–15 working days | This is an estimate, not an official turnaround time |
| Set a renewal reminder | Around 60 days before expiry | The stated renewal fee is ₹5,900; confirm the current fee |
| Submit the renewal application | When the option is available for your certificate | Older DGFT help documentation says renewal may appear for expired certificates; check your current portal account |
Ask your APEDA RCMC consultant whether renewal reminders and expiry tracking are included in the service. Since the certificate can remain valid for several years, it is easy to overlook the renewal date.
How to Choose the Right APEDA RCMC Consultant in India
Before paying an advance to an APEDA RCMC consultant in India, use this checklist to assess the provider.
- Written scope and fee: Get a written quotation explaining what is included and which services cost extra.
- Separate government and professional fees: The stated ₹5,900 government fee should be verifiable through the official portal and listed separately from the consultant's charges.
- Clear product-category advice: Ask which APEDA product category and exporter type will be selected and why.
- Protection of your credentials: Keep control of your DGFT login and digital signature. Share only the information and access required for the filing.
- Realistic timelines: Be cautious of guaranteed issuance dates because an official turnaround time has not been established in the information cited here.
- Post-registration support: Confirm whether the service includes help with amendments, expiry tracking and renewal reminders.
- Honest eligibility advice: A reliable consultant should explain whether an RCMC is required for your specific export activity before recommending registration. If you plan to rely on the reported 2026 small-consignment exemption, verify its applicability through the latest official DGFT notification.
What Common APEDA RCMC Registration Mistakes Can a Consultant Help You Avoid?
An APEDA RCMC consultant can help identify common application errors before submission and reduce avoidable delays.
- Choosing the wrong authority: An APEDA RCMC covers APEDA-scheduled products only. Products regulated by another authority may require a different RCMC.
- Selecting the wrong exporter category: Merchant, manufacturer and manufacturer-cum-merchant exporters may have different document requirements.
- Submitting unsigned or unsealed copies: Check the applicable APEDA instructions for document authentication requirements.
- Incorrect IEC details: The application uses information from your IEC profile, so mismatched or outdated details may cause problems.
- Expired manufacturing proof: Check the validity of supporting documents, such as an FSSAI licence, where applicable.
- Incomplete product details: Review the product list and destination-country information before submitting the application.
- Duplicate or incorrect payments: Verify the official payment route and receipt before paying a consultant or intermediary to avoid paying the same fee twice.
Why Choose Silvereye Certifications as Your APEDA RCMC Consultant?
Silvereye Certifications supports manufacturers, importers, exporters and brand owners with Indian regulatory registrations. For APEDA RCMC registration, our support includes reviewing your IEC profile and product coverage, checking documents before upload, preparing and filing the application through the DGFT e-RCMC portal, and tracking its progress until the certificate is available for download. We can also assist with amendments and renewal when required.
- Written scope and fee: Receive a clear quotation before work begins.
- Transparent government payment: The stated ₹5,900 government fee is paid through the official portal, subject to the amount displayed at checkout.
- Clear, practical guidance: Understand your registration requirements, including whether an RCMC is necessary for your export activity.
- Control over your credentials: You retain control of your DGFT login and digital signature.
- Ongoing support: Get assistance with amendments, expiry tracking and renewal after registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an APEDA RCMC consultant do?
An APEDA RCMC consultant checks your product coverage and IEC, reviews documents, files your e-RCMC application on the DGFT portal, tracks queries and delivers the issued certificate.
Is it mandatory to use an APEDA RCMC consultant?
No. APEDA’s circular invites exporters to apply through the DGFT portal themselves once they hold an IEC. A consultant is optional and mainly saves time and rework.
How much does an APEDA RCMC cost?
APEDA’s circular lists ₹5,900 for online registration, made up of ₹5,000 plus ₹900 GST. A consultant’s professional fee is separate and varies by provider.
How long is an APEDA RCMC valid?
APEDA’s circular says 5 years. DGFT’s help file describes five financial years from 1 April of the licensing year of issue to 31 March, unless otherwise specified. Read the date on your certificate.
Which documents are needed for APEDA RCMC registration?
A signed and sealed IEC copy for merchant exporters. Manufacturers also need signed and sealed manufacturing proof such as FSSAI or Udyam registration, depending on the product group.
How long does APEDA RCMC registration take?
Neither APEDA nor DGFT publishes an official turnaround time. Consultancies commonly report about 7 to 15 working days after a clean filing. Treat any exact promise with caution.
Do I need an APEDA RCMC for exports up to ₹3 lakh?
Under DGFT Notification 36/2026-27 of 15 September 2026, consignments up to ₹3 lakh FOB do not need an RCMC where the Foreign Trade Policy would otherwise require one. Above that value the requirement continues where applicable.
Can I apply for an APEDA RCMC without an IEC?
No. The e-RCMC application depends on a valid IEC issued by DGFT, and the portal pulls your details from it.
Where do I apply for an APEDA RCMC?
On the DGFT portal at dgft.gov.in, under Services > e-RCMC > Apply for e-RCMC. APEDA has issued RCMCs through this route since 17 July 2023.
Can a consultant renew my APEDA RCMC?
Yes. Renewal is filed on the same portal and APEDA’s circular lists the renewal fee at ₹5,900. Check what your login offers, since DGFT’s help file says renewal appears for expired certificates.
Does an APEDA RCMC cover Spices Board products?
No. An APEDA RCMC covers APEDA scheduled products. Products handled by other boards need the RCMC from that authority.
Should I share my DGFT password with a consultant?
Share only what the APEDA RCMC filing needs and keep control of your login and digital signature. Be cautious with anyone who asks you to hand credentials over permanently.
What should I ask before hiring an APEDA RCMC consultant?
Ask for the scope in writing, the split between government and professional fee, which exporter category they will select, who answers queries, and whether amendment and renewal support is included.
