APEDA Registration – Unlock Global Opportunities for Your Agri-Business
If you’re in the business of exporting agricultural and processed food, APEDA registration isn’t just a formality—it’s a legal obligation.
With APEDA certification, you gain access to government incentives, market insights, and export support that can give your business the competitive edge it needs. Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or just getting started, this registration helps you meet international quality standards, enhance credibility, and tap into lucrative opportunities worldwide.
Why just grow locally when you can export globally?
🌍 What is APEDA?
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) was established under the APEDA Act of 1985 to promote and regulate agricultural and processed food exports from India. APEDA certification is mandatory for exporters dealing in scheduled food products, ensuring compliance with international trade standards.
With APEDA registration, exporters gain access to financial assistance, quality enhancement programs, trade fairs, and exclusive market insights—essential for competing in the global marketplace.
📜 What is APEDA Registration?
APEDA Registration, also known as Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), is issued to exporters dealing in scheduled food products under the APEDA Act. This certification is a legal prerequisite to begin exporting agri/45cultural and processed food items. Without it, businesses cannot officially engage in export activities for these products.
A valid RCMC certificate not only ensures compliance with government regulations but also opens doors to subsidies, market development support, and enhanced brand credibility.
Who Needs APEDA Registration?
If your business exports any scheduled products listed under the First or Second Schedule of the APEDA Act, you must obtain APEDA registration within one month of incorporation.
🚀 Eligible Entities:
✔️ Individual exporters
✔️ Proprietorships & partnerships
✔️ Private limited & public limited companies
✔️ Food manufacturers & processors
✔️ Farmer-producer organizations
📌 List of Scheduled Food Products Under APEDA
📦 First Schedule (Major Categories):
🍎 Fruits & Vegetables
🥩 Meat & Poultry Products
🍼 Dairy Products
🍫 Chocolates & Confectionery
🌾 Cereals & Cereal Products
🥜 Groundnuts & Walnuts
🥒 Pickles, Chutneys & Papads
🍯 Honey, Jaggery & Sugar Products
🌸 Floriculture & Medicinal Plants
🍶 Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Beverages
🌾 Second Schedule:
🍚 Basmati Rice
APEDA registration ensures compliance with export regulations and offers multiple incentives for businesses exporting these products.
🛠️ Why is APEDA Registration Important?
🔹 Legal Compliance
Mandatory for businesses exporting scheduled food products.
🔹 Market Access
Facilitates entry into international markets by ensuring regulatory approvals.
🔹 Financial Assistance
Eligibility for subsidies, grants, and promotional schemes covering branding, infrastructure, and technology upgrades.
🔹 Quality Assurance & Training
Guidelines, workshops, and certifications to enhance product quality and global competitiveness.
🔹 Global Promotion & Support
Participation in international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and business delegations.
🔹 Regulatory & Tax Benefits
Access to government incentives, tax exemptions, and streamlined export procedures.
🔹 Dispute Resolution
Acts as an intermediary for settling disputes between exporters and importers.
📝 Documents Required for APEDA Registration
📌 Mandatory Documents for All Exporters:
✔️ Import-Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT
✔️ Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque
✔️ GST Registration Certificate
✔️ Bank Statement (Last 2 Months)
✔️ Duly Signed APEDA RCMC Application
📌 Additional Documents for Manufacturers:
✔️ FSSAI Registration (Food Safety & Standards Authority of India)
✔️ DIC/SIA Certificate (if applicable)
✔️ Pollution Control Board NOC
✔️ MSME Certificate (if applicable)
✔️ Halal Certification (if required)
📅 APEDA Registration Validity & Renewal
🔹 APEDA RCMC is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.
🔹 Renewal is automatic upon payment of the prescribed fee—no additional paperwork required.
🚨 Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with APEDA regulations may result in:
❌ Hefty fines (₹1,000 for first offence, ₹50/day for repeated violations)
❌ Business restrictions (ban on exports of scheduled products)
❌ RCMC cancellation for false documentation or inactivity for 12 months
To avoid penalties, ensure timely registration and compliance with all APEDA guidelines.
⚡ Step-by-Step APEDA Registration Process
APEDA registration is now fully online through the APEDA portal. Here’s how it works:
📍 Step 1: Online Application
- Visit the APEDA Portal and click “Register as Member”
- Enter IEC, mobile number, and email ID for OTP verification
📍 Step 2: Upload Documents
- Fill in the RCMC registration form
- Upload all required documents
📍 Step 3: Pay the Registration Fee
- Submit the prescribed APEDA registration fee
- Generate your application number for tracking
📍 Step 4: Get Your APEDA Certificate
- Once approved, download the APEDA RCMC certificate within 10–15 days
📜 APEDA Registration Number – Why It Matters
Every APEDA RCMC certificate comes with a unique registration number, essential for:
✔️ Official documentation in export transactions
✔️ Verification & tracking of export activities
✔️ Accessing APEDA benefits & government schemes
🚀 Why Choose Compliance Monk for APEDA Registration?
Navigating export compliance, government filings, and documentation can be overwhelming. That’s where Compliance Monk comes in!
What We Offer:
✔️ Expert Guidance – End-to-end assistance from application to approval
✔️ Hassle-Free Process – We handle paperwork, so you focus on your business
✔️ Faster Approvals – Minimize delays and get your certificate quickly
✔️ Affordable & Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees!
📞 Get Started with Compliance Monk Today!
FAQs
1. What is APEDA Registration?
APEDA Registration is a mandatory certification for businesses exporting scheduled agricultural and processed food products from India. It ensures compliance with export regulations and provides access to various government incentives and support schemes.
2. Who needs APEDA Registration?
Any individual, company, or entity involved in the export of scheduled agricultural and processed food products under the APEDA Act must obtain registration within one month of starting their business.
3. What are the benefits of APEDA Registration?
- Legal authorization to export scheduled products
- Access to financial assistance and export incentives
- Participation in global trade fairs and promotional events
- Quality enhancement programs and training
- Market intelligence and trade-related updates
4. What documents are required for APEDA Registration?
Commonly required documents include:
- Import-Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT
- Bank certificate or cancelled cheque
- GST Registration Certificate
- Bank account statement (last two months)
- Duly signed APEDA RCMC application form
Additional documents may be required for manufacturer-exporters.
5. How long does it take to obtain APEDA Registration?
Typically, the APEDA registration process takes 10–15 days from the date of submission of a complete application and payment of the registration fee.
6. What is the validity period of APEDA Registration?
The APEDA Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is valid for five years and is automatically renewed upon payment of the renewal fee.
7. What happens if I fail to register with APEDA?
Failure to obtain APEDA Registration can result in legal restrictions on exports, financial penalties, and the inability to access government incentives and support schemes.
8. Can APEDA Registration be canceled?
Yes, APEDA registration may be canceled due to:
- Non-compliance with APEDA guidelines
- Inactivity in exports for 12 consecutive months
- Submission of false or misleading information
9. Is there a penalty for non-compliance with the APEDA Act?
Yes, penalties may include:
- Fines (starting from ₹1,000 with additional daily charges for repeated violations)
- Business restrictions, including suspension of export rights
- Legal action for severe violations
11. How do I track my APEDA Registration application status?
You can track your application status using the application number provided after submission on the official APEDA portal.
12. Can I modify my APEDA Registration details later?
Yes, registered exporters can update business details, such as contact information and product categories, by submitting a modification request on the APEDA portal.
13. What is the cost of APEDA Registration?
The registration fee varies based on business type and product category. Compliance Monk offers transparent pricing and guidance on applicable charges.