Government Exempts Small Exporters From RCMC Mandate For Consignments Up To ₹3 Lakh
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), has amended the Foreign Trade Policy 2023 to grant a de minimis exemption from Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) requirements for low-value export consignments. Under the new rule, export shipments with a Free-on-Board (FOB) value up to ₹3 lakh will no longer require an RCMC or Certificate of Registration.
The policy change addresses long-standing compliance challenges faced by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), artisanal businesses, and first-time exporters, particularly those utilizing e-commerce, postal, and international courier channels. Prior to this notification, small-value exporters had to secure memberships with Export Promotion Councils or Commodity Boards, creating administrative friction and costs for minor shipments. Government data indicates that low-value consignments account for over 40% of total shipping bills, making this procedural simplification impactful for small-scale international trade. By easing market access and streamlining export documentation, the government aims to encourage grassroots participation in India's global trade ecosystem and boost overall merchandise exports.
