How to get ESC Membership Registration - Process, Fees & Benefits

The ESC registration documents required for RCMC registration include the following essential records to verify the applicant's business details, export activities, and eligibility for membership.

Note: All documents must be uploaded in PDF format in the Attachments section of the application.

The membership fee for the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) depends on the export turnover of the applicant. For ESC membership, Professional Utilities charges ₹7,499 + 18% GST for registration assistance, subject to eligibility.

Note

• Service provider fees remain the same across all applicant categories
• The online verification line (₹10 + GST) applies only when the membership fee has already been paid offline.
• Professional charges are exclusive of GST

Any manufacturer or merchant exporters dealing in electronics, computer software, or IT-enabled services in India are eligible to apply for ESC Registration:

• Manufacturer Exporters: Businesses involved in manufacturing and exporting electronics hardware, telecommunications equipment, computer software, and other products covered under ESC are eligible to apply for ESC membership certificate.
• Merchant Exporters: Traders involved in export and sourcing of eligible electronics, computer hardware, software, and telecommunication products can apply for ESC RCMC Certificate.
• Merchant-cum-Manufacturer Exporters: Entities engaged in manufacturing and export of eligible electronics and computer software products.
• Service Providers: Businesses providing eligible computer software, IT-enabled, and other services covered by ESC.

Membership Tiers

• Ordinary Member: Direct exporters of eligible electronics hardware, computer software, and related products or services who meet ESC's applicable membership criteria.
• Associate Member: Eligible service providers and other stakeholders associated with the electronics and computer software sectors, subject to ESC's membership criteria.

Note: A valid Importer Exporter Code (IEC) issued by DGFT is mandatory for ESC Membership Registration Process.

The Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) offers membership in two categories, based on whether the applicant exports directly or supports the sector. The table below compares them so electronics and IT/software exporters can identify the right category before applying for the RCMC.

The Registration cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) is a crucial document for businesses involved in import-export activities in India. Obtaining the RCMC is a mandatory requirement, as it verifies the legal standing and eligibility of the business to participate in international trade.The RCMC is issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) after a rigorous verification process, which includes the submission of various forms and supporting documents.

The RCMC grants businesses access to trade-related facilities and benefits, including government incentives and subsidies, and the ability to participate in trade fairs and exhibitions. Having an RCMC can also improve a business's credibility and reputation, making it easier to attract customers and partners in foreign markets.

Electronics & Computer Software Export Promotion Council RCMC is valid for five years, from 1 April of the year of issue to 31 March of the fifth year, under the Foreign Trade Policy 2023. However, membership subscription fees must be paid annually, with each subscription year ending on 31 March. Failure to renew the membership subscription within the prescribed period may result in the cessation of membership and affect access to applicable government benefits, including RoDTEP.

Applicants can manage ESC renewal and membership-related requirements through the DGFT Common Digital RCMC Portal with updated documents and the applicable fee. Any amendments to RCMC details must also be completed through the prescribed procedure.

Electronics and Computer Software EPC Registration covers exports across electronics hardware, telecommunications, computer software, and IT-enabled services (ITeS):

Members of the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) are entitled to a range of benefits that support and promote their export activities, including:

• RoDTEP Scheme: Enables eligible exporters to claim remission of specified duties, taxes, and levies embedded in exported products.
• Advance Authorization: Helps eligible exporters to import specified inputs duty-free for export production, subject to applicable conditions.
• Duty Drawback: Claim refunds of specified duties on exported goods under applicable customs provisions.
• Export Credit Insurance: Exporters can explore credit insurance facilities offered by the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India (ECGC) to manage risks associated with non-payment by overseas buyers.
• Trade Fairs and Exhibitions: Provides opportunities to participate in domestic and international trade events to promote eligible products and services.
• Buyer–Seller Meetings: Creates opportunities to connect with international buyers and develop export business relationships.
• EPCG Scheme : Import of eligible capital goods at zero customs duty, subject to scheme requirements.

Note: RCMC registration does not guarantee subsidies, financial assistance, or approval under any government scheme. Eligibility depends on the applicable guidelines and scheme specific requirements.