The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has given a major compliance relief. Through Notification No. 36/2026-27 dated 15 September 2026, DGFT has introduced an RCMC exemption. This change amends paragraph 2.57 of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023. It takes effect immediately. In addition, it is designed to help small, new, and occasional exporters.
What Is the New RCMC Exemption for Exports?
Earlier, exporters usually needed a valid Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) or Certificate of Registration from the concerned Export Promotion Council or Commodity Board. However, the new rule adds sub-paragraph (c) to para 2.57. It clearly states that the RCMC or Certificate of Registration requirement does not apply to any export consignment where the Free-on-Board (FOB) value does not exceed ₹3,00,000.
Simple summary of the RCMC exemption for exports:
- FOB value up to ₹3 lakh per consignment → No RCMC needed
- FOB value above ₹3 lakh → RCMC still required where the FTP asks for it
The notification is issued under Section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, read with paragraph 1.02 of FTP 2023.
Why the RCMC Exemption for Exports Matters
- The government wants to promote small-value exports and cut unnecessary paperwork.
- Low-value consignments make up a large share of shipping bills but only a tiny share of total export value.
- This RCMC exemption for exports removes one barrier for businesses testing overseas markets with smaller shipments.
How the RCMC Scheme Works After This Change
The RCMC Scheme is the system under which exporters obtain membership certificates from Export Promotion Councils or Commodity Boards. The new exemption does not cancel the entire RCMC Scheme. It only relaxes the requirement for low-value consignments.
For consignments above ₹3 lakh, the normal RCMC rules under the FTP continue to apply.
IEC Registration Still Required for All Exporters
The RCMC exemption for exports does not remove the need for IEC Registration. Every commercial exporter still needs a valid Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) issued by DGFT. IEC Registration remains a basic and mandatory requirement. The RCMC relief is separate from the IEC.
Other rules that stay the same:
- Customs clearance and documentation
- Product-specific restrictions (if any)
- Banking and RBI formalities for foreign exchange
- Export incentives such as RoDTEP and Duty Drawback (these generally do not require RCMC)a
Who Gains from the RCMC Exemption for Exports
- First-time and occasional exporters
- MSMEs, artisans, and small manufacturers
- Sellers using India Post, courier services, or e-commerce export channels
- Businesses sending trial or low-volume shipments
Exporters handling larger consignments should continue to hold a valid RCMC under the normal RCMC Scheme rules.
Simple Steps After the RCMC Exemption for Exports
- Check the FOB value of each consignment. If it is ₹3 lakh or less, you do not need RCMC.
- Make sure your IEC Registration is active.
- Complete regular export documents and customs procedures.
- For any consignment above ₹3 lakh, obtain or renew the required RCMC if the product category needs it.
- Keep clear records of FOB values for each shipment.
In conclusion, this RCMC exemption for exports is a practical step. It lowers the entry barrier for small-value shipments while keeping the rest of the export rules intact. For more information, feel free to talk to our experts at 8881-069-069.
Moreover, if you want any other guidance relating to RCMC exemption for exports, please feel free to talk to our business advisors at 8881-069-069.
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