APEDA Registration is mandatory for exporters dealing in scheduled agricultural and processed food products from India. Registration enables exporters to legally export products, access government incentives, and expand into global markets.
In this guide, Saving Mantra explains the step-by-step APEDA registration process in India, including documents, fees, benefits, and timelines.
What is APEDA Registration?
Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India.
APEDA registration (also called RCMC – Registration Cum Membership Certificate) is required for exporters dealing in notified agricultural and processed food products.
Products Covered Under APEDA
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat and meat products
- Poultry and dairy products
- Basmati rice
- Processed foods
- Organic products
- Cereals and pulses
Benefits of APEDA Registration
- Mandatory compliance for APEDA-listed exports
- Eligibility for export incentives and subsidies
- Access to international trade fairs and buyer-seller meets
- Export promotion support and market intelligence
- Brand credibility and global market access
Who Needs APEDA Registration?
- Exporters of agricultural and processed food products
- Manufacturers exporting own products
- Merchant exporters
- Proprietorships, partnerships, LLPs, companies, and societies
Step-by-Step Process for APEDA Registration in India
Step 1: Obtain IEC Code
Ensure you have a valid Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT.
Step 2: Create APEDA Account
Register on the official APEDA online portal using IEC details and business information.
Step 3: Fill Application Form
Enter exporter details such as:
- Business name and address
- Bank details
- Product category
- Contact details
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload self-attested scanned copies of all required documents.
Step 5: Pay Registration Fee
Pay the one-time APEDA registration fee online.
Step 6: Application Verification
APEDA authorities verify the submitted application and documents.
Step 7: Issue of APEDA Certificate
Upon approval, the APEDA Registration Certificate (RCMC) is issued digitally.
Documents Required for APEDA Registration
- Import Export Code (IEC)
- PAN Card of business/entity
- Aadhaar of applicant
- Bank Certificate or cancelled cheque
- Address proof of business
- Digital signature (optional but recommended)
APEDA Registration Fees
- One-time registration fee: ₹5,000 + GST
- No annual renewal fee
Validity of APEDA Registration
- APEDA Registration is valid for a lifetime
- No renewal required unless business details change
Timeline for APEDA Registration
- Registration process: 3 to 7 working days
- Subject to document verification and portal status
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect IEC or PAN details
- Mismatch in bank information
- Uploading unclear or unsigned documents
- Selecting incorrect product categories
How Saving Mantra Can Help
Saving Mantra provides end-to-end support for:
- APEDA registration filing
- Document verification
- Error-free application submission
- Export compliance guidance
- Post-registration assistance
Conclusion
APEDA Registration is a crucial compliance for exporters in the agriculture and processed food sector. With proper documentation and expert assistance, exporters can easily obtain APEDA registration and expand their business globally.
Saving Mantra ensures a smooth, fast, and compliant APEDA registration process for exporters across India.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only. APEDA rules, fees, and procedures may change as per government notifications. Readers are advised to consult official APEDA guidelines or professional consultants before applying.