The Indian government has exempted exporters from obtaining a registration-cum-membership certificate (RCMC) for consignments with a free-on-board (FOB) value up to ₹3 lakh, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) announced on Wednesday. This amendment to the Foreign Trade Policy aims to ease compliance for small-value exports, allowing exporters to test overseas markets without upfront registration.
The DGFT amended Para 2.32 of the Foreign Trade Policy to waive the mandatory RCMC or certificate of registration for consignments valued up to ₹3 lakh. This move reduces the paperwork and regulatory burden on small exporters, enabling them to participate more easily in international trade. The exemption applies specifically to shipments with an FOB value not exceeding ₹3 lakh, facilitating smoother export processes for micro and small businesses.
This policy change is significant as it lowers barriers for small exporters, who often face challenges due to complex registration requirements. By removing the RCMC mandate for low-value exports, the government aims to boost export volumes from smaller players and encourage market exploration. The exemption aligns with broader efforts to promote ease of doing business and expand India’s export base, particularly among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The DGFT’s notification on September 16, 2026, officially implements this amendment, marking a step toward simplifying export procedures. Exporters can now ship consignments up to ₹3 lakh without the RCMC, potentially increasing participation in global trade from smaller Indian businesses.