RCMC registration is essential for exporters. It serves as proof that a business is recognized as a legitimate exporter for a specific product category, such as medical devices. Exporters seeking formal recognition and government assistance within India’s export environment, obtaining a RCMC registration for medical devices is mandatory.

What is RCMC Registration?

The Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is an official registration granted to exporters by an authorized Export Promotion Council (EPC) or Commodity Board under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) of India.

It serves as proof that a business is recognized as a legitimate exporter for a specific product category, such as medical devices. Holding an RCMC allows companies to participate in export promotion activities and avail policy benefits.

RCMC registration also helps exporters align with trade compliance standards, improve credibility in foreign markets, and gain access to various government support schemes and global trade opportunities.

Why RCMC Registration is Important?  

RCMC registration is essential for exporters. It provides official recognition, gives access to government export benefits, ensures compliance with trade rules, and builds credibility in global medical device markets.  

• Access to Export Benefits: Exporters with a valid RCMC can claim financial benefits and duty refunds through government programs like RoDTEP and EPC-linked incentives. These programs aim to improve product competitiveness in global markets. 
• Recognition by DGFT and EPC: It offers official recognition from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the relevant EPC. This enhances an exporter’s trade identity and eligibility for support related to policy. 
• Market Credibility Enhancement: Having RCMC assures buyers and trade authorities that the exporter follows Indian trade regulations. This boosts brand credibility and increases global buyer confidence in transactions.   
• Participation in Trade Events: EPCs only allow registered members to take part in international exhibitions, trade fairs, buyer-seller meetings, and export promotion delegations. This helps exporters grow their business presence abroad.  
• Smooth Customs and Documentation: RCMC streamlines customs clearance and helps exporters get necessary approvals for export shipments through recognized trade channels and industry groups.
• Access to Industry Insights: Registered members receive regular trade circulars, policy updates, and export data analysis from EPCs. This information supports better decision-making and enhances understanding of international markets.  

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What is the Export Promotion Council for Medical Devices (EPC)?

The Export Promotion Council for Medical Devices (EPCMD) has been introduced by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India, to exclusively encourage exports of medical devices and diagnostics from India.

The EPCMD acts as a sector-specific body committed to supporting medical device manufacturers, traders and exporters by enabling global outreach and policy support.

After completely integrated into DFGT’s Appendix 2T, EPCMD will grant RCMCs for all exporters dealing in medical devices, guaranteeing sectoral focus and simplify export registration under the Foreign Trade Policy.

Why You Need an RCMC for Medical Devices

Exporters seeking formal recognition and government assistance within India’s export environment, obtaining a RCMC registration for medical devices is mandatory. It ensures exporter’s business credibility, regulatory compliance, and eligibility for International trade participation under India’s trade policy framework.

• Government-Authorized Export Status: An RCMC formally defines a company as an authorized exporter of medical devices, confirming compliance with trade standards and facilitating transparent, legal participation in global trade marketplace.
• Eligibility for Incentive Schemes: The medical device exporters with RCMC can get themselves of export- related benefits, tax reimbursements, and the participation issues under government export promotion and trade facilitation schemes.
• Improved Global Market Reach: With RCMC from EPCMD, exporters gain easier access to international buyers, distributors, and importers who rely on certification for verifying supplier authenticity and compliance credibility.
• Ease of Participation in EPC Programs: EPCMD organizes export promotion activities, training, and global trade events. RCMC is mandatory to take part in these programs and access sector-specific export support.
• Compliance with DGFT and Trade Policy: DGFT mandates RCMC for exporters under Appendix 2T of the Foreign Trade Policy. For medical device exporters, EPCMD is the designated council authorized to issue RCMCs.

List of Export Promotion Councils Providing RCMC

India has many Export Promotion Councils (EPCs). Each one focuses on specific sectors. These councils issue RCMCs and help exporters with various trade support measures. Medical device exporters currently depend on relevant EPCs until EPCMD is fully operational. Some key EPCs include:  

• EEPC India (Engineering Export Promotion Council): Focuses on exporters of engineering goods, machinery, and related products. This includes certain categories of medical devices until EPCMD integration is complete within DGFT’s digital system.
• Pharmexcil (Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council): Covers pharmaceutical and healthcare products. Before EPCMD was formed, medical devices were partly under its responsibility for RCMC issuance.  
• FIEO (Federation of Indian Export Organisations): A general body for exporters of various products. It provides RCMC to those not included in specific EPCs, including certain hybrid categories of healthcare or device accessories.  
• EPC for Medical Devices (EPCMD): Created to simplify RCMC issuance for the medical device sector. It ensures focused export support, market research, and trade promotion for device manufacturers.
• Chemexcil (Basic Chemicals, Cosmetics & Dyes Export Promotion Council): Although not device-specific, some allied chemical and diagnostic exporters fall under its scope depending on product classification and HS codes.

Eligibility Criteria for RCMC Registration

RCMC registration is open to businesses involved in manufacturing or exporting goods listed under the respective EPC’s jurisdiction. To qualify for RCMC with EPCMD or any other council, exporters must meet the following requirements:

• Must have a valid Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) issued by DGFT.  
• Be involved in the manufacture or export of products within the EPC’s area.  
• Secure a valid business registration, such as Udyam, MSME, or company incorporation.  
• Follow sector-specific licensing or quality standards as needed.  
• Submit all essential documents, such as GST certificate, PAN, and company profile.
• Ensure no pending violation or debarment under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act.

Also Read: How to Get RCMC from Pharmexcil

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for RCMC via EPCMD

The process of obtaining RCMC through the Export Promotion Council for Medical Devices is simple and digital. The following is a step-by-step outline of how to complete registration and approval:

• Access the Official EPCMD Portal: Visit the EPCMD website and create a user account using your IEC and company credentials. Ensure your product category falls under medical devices as defined by DGFT Appendix 2T.
• Fill in the RCMC Application Form: Provide accurate business information, exporter details, manufacturing site addresses, and product classifications as per the HS code list for medical devices.
• Upload Required Documents: Attach scanned copies of IEC, PAN, GST, incorporation certificate, manufacturing license (if applicable), and proof of business address for document verification by EPCMD authorities.
• Payment of Prescribed Fees: Pay the registration or renewal fee online through EPCMD’s secure payment gateway. Keep the transaction acknowledgment for records and audit purposes.
• Verification by EPCMD Officials: The EPC scrutinizes documents and verifies the applicant’s export credentials. Any discrepancies must be resolved before certificate issuance to ensure smooth approval.
• Issuance and Validity of RCMC: Once approved, EPCMD issues the digital RCMC certificate, usually valid for one to three years. Exporters must renew before expiry to maintain continuous membership benefits.

Conclusion

RCMC registration is a key requirement for Indian exporters, particularly in regulated sectors like medical devices. It boosts global market reliability, ensures eligibility for export profits, and keeps businesses in line with India’s trade rules.  

The Export Promotion Council for Medical Devices (EPCMD) is the official body responsible for these registrations. This focused approach supports the fast-growing medical device export industry. Well-timed RCMC registration through EPCMD or authorized councils helps exporters stay compliant with policies and competitive in the global market.