Types of Membership
The Export Promotion Council for Export Oriented Units and Special Economic Zones (EPCES) offers two main types of memberships:
- Ordinary Membership: For Export Oriented Units (EOUs) and units located within Special Economic Zones (SEZs). This membership allows companies to avail of various export promotion schemes and participate in EPCES activities.
- Associate Membership: For organizations not directly involved in exports but associated with the export industry. This includes service providers, consultants, or manufacturers supplying to EOUs and SEZs.
These memberships allow companies and organizations to participate in trade fairs, gain insights into export markets, and benefit from government schemes designed to promote export activities.
Who Can Apply for EEPC RCMC Certification?
The EEPC (Engineering Export Promotion Council) RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) Certification is applicable to the following entities engaged in engineering exports:
- Manufacturer Exporters: Firms or entities that produce engineering goods and export them to international markets.
- Merchant Exporters: Traders or firms that export engineering goods without directly being involved in the manufacturing process.
- Project Exporters: Companies that export turnkey projects or engineering services.
- Service Providers: Entities providing services related to engineering projects, such as consultancy, design, and technical services.
Any company or individual involved in the export of engineering goods or services can apply for EEPC RCMC Certification.
Documents Required for EPCES Registration
To register with EPCES (Export Promotion Council for EOUs and SEZs), the following documents are required:
- IEC (Import Export Code): A valid Import Export Code issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
- GST Registration: A copy of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration certificate.
- PAN Card: The company’s PAN card issued by the Income Tax Department.
- Certificate of Incorporation: Proof of business incorporation or registration, such as a Certificate of Incorporation or partnership deed.
- Lease Agreement: If the unit is in a Special Economic Zone, a copy of the lease or agreement with the SEZ authorities is required.
- Letter of Permission (LOP): A copy of the Letter of Permission issued by the Development Commissioner of SEZ for units in the SEZ.
Application Procedure for EPCES Registration
The application procedure for EPCES registration is straightforward and can be completed online or through the council’s office. Here’s how it works:
- Visit the EPCES Website: Go to the official EPCES website and download the membership application form.
- Fill the Application Form: Complete the membership application form with details such as company name, address, IEC, GST number, and business type.
- Attach Required Documents: Submit the necessary documents such as IEC, PAN, GST certificate, and business incorporation proof.
- Submit Application: Submit the filled form and attached documents either online or at the EPCES office.
- Membership Fees: Pay the applicable membership fees based on the type of membership (Ordinary or Associate) and the size of the business.
- Approval and Issuance of RCMC: After verification, EPCES issues the RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate), granting official membership to the exporter.
Benefits of EPCES Registration
There are numerous benefits to registering with EPCES, including:
- Access to Export Promotion Schemes: EPCES members can take advantage of government schemes such as Duty Drawback, Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) support, and others designed to boost export competitiveness.
- Market Access and Exposure: EPCES helps members participate in international trade fairs and buyer-seller meets, providing exposure to potential buyers and new markets.
- Policy Advocacy: EPCES represents the interests of EOUs and SEZ units, ensuring that their concerns are addressed at policy-making levels with the government.
- Market Intelligence: EPCES provides valuable insights into global market trends, regulations, and opportunities, enabling members to stay competitive.
- Networking Opportunities: Membership allows exporters to connect with peers, industry experts, and government bodies, enhancing business growth and collaborations.
Conclusion
Joining EPCES and obtaining membership opens the doors to a range of benefits, including participation in government schemes, access to trade fairs, and support in resolving export-related issues. Whether you are an Export Oriented Unit (EOU) or an SEZ-based business, EPCES registration enhances your ability to compete globally by providing access to critical resources and support. By ensuring compliance with regulations and availing of the benefits provided by EPCES, exporters can effectively grow their presence in international markets and maximize their business potential.