APEDA Registration: Procedure, Necessary Documents, and Benefits

Objective of APEDA
APEDA's primary goal is to promote the export of scheduled products. To achieve this, it carries out various functions under the supervision of the central government. The central government establishes rules and regulations, which are implemented by APEDA to ensure the effective administration of the APEDA Act.

Roles of APEDA Authorities
APEDA authorities are entrusted with the following roles:

• Promoting export-oriented production and development of scheduled products.

• Establishing standards and specifications for scheduled products.

• Registering exporters of scheduled products upon payment of the prescribed fees.

• Enhancing the packaging and marketing of scheduled products.

• Conducting inspections to ensure the quality of scheduled products.

• Providing training on various aspects related to industries dealing with scheduled products.

• Developing industries related to scheduled products and undertaking surveys, feasibility studies, etc.

• Collecting and publishing statistics from factory or establishment owners.

APEDA is responsible for promoting exports and developing scheduled products, including fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, dairy products, confectionery, biscuits, bakery products, honey, jaggery, sugar products, cocoa products, chocolates, floriculture products, pickles, papads, chutneys, and more.

Registration Process
To register under APEDA, applicants must submit the application form within one month of starting their business operations. If the exporter of scheduled products is unable to register within this timeframe due to valid reasons, the Authority may extend the deadline. Once the application is properly completed and the fee is paid, the Authority will issue the Registration-Cum-Membership-Certificate (RCMC). This is a one-time registration, and all registered members are bound by the rules and regulations of the APEDA Act.

Documents Required for Registration

• Duly signed application form

• Copy of Import-Export Code (IEC) issued by D.G.F.T.

• Bank Certificate signed by the appropriate authority

• Bank account statement of the firm (latest two months)

• Canceled cheque

Benefits of APEDA Registration

1. Mandatory for Export of Scheduled Products
   APEDA registration is essential for exporting scheduled products.

2. Access to Financial Assistance Schemes
   Exporters can benefit from APEDA's various financial support schemes.

3. Support in Brand Promotion
   APEDA assists exporters with brand promotion through advertising, packaging development, database updates, surveys, and more.

4. Export Guidelines
   It provides exporters with guidance on suitable products and countries for export.

5. Training Programs
   Registered exporters can participate in APEDA’s training programs to enhance their business knowledge for scheduled products.

Online Registration Process

To simplify procedures and improve ease of business, APEDA implemented an online system for issuing RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) effective from August 1, 2015. Exporters can register online by following these steps:

1. Access APEDA Website
   Visit the APEDA website and click on the "Register as Member" tab.

2. Enter Basic Details
   Provide your IE Code, email ID, and mobile number, then submit the details.

3. OTP Verification
   An OTP will be sent to your email and mobile number. Enter this OTP on the verification screen and click "Submit."

4. Fill the Application Form
   Complete the online application form and upload required documents in JPEG, PDF, or PNG formats.

5. Save and Edit Information
   The application can be completed in multiple sessions by revisiting the website using the assigned OTP. You can edit your details until the online payment is made.

6. Registration Fee
   The registration fee is ₹5000 (excluding taxes) and can be paid via:

• Credit Card (MasterCard/Visa)

• Debit Card (MasterCard/Visa)

• Demand Draft payable to “APEDA” in respective cities

7. Application Number
   After payment, an application number is generated for future reference.

8. Login Credentials
   Upon RCMC issuance, login credentials are sent to the registered email. Exporters can access their accounts through the “Exporter Login” link on the APEDA website.

9. Track Application Status
   The application status can be tracked using the “Track Application” link by providing the IE Code and application number.

10. Application Monitoring
    If any shortcomings are found, exporters must monitor and resubmit documents online.

11. RCMC Approval
    After approval by APEDA officials, the RCMC certificate can be downloaded through the “View RCMC Certificate” option under the RCMC menu.

For more details, visit APEDA's official website.