Free Sale & Commerce Certificate - Fees, Documents & Process

Updated on June 19, 2025 02:53:20 PM

A free sale certificate is a crucial document that facilitates the export of non-restricted items across borders. It serves as a binding guarantee that the product in question can be freely bought and sold within the issuing country. Notably, the issuance of a free sale certificate does not necessarily imply that the product has undergone a thorough assessment for safety and efficacy.

The free sale certificate plays a pivotal role in export of medical devices and equipment which are not covered under drug and cosmetic act. It provides importing countries with the assurance that the exported product has met the necessary requirements and can be safely distributed and used within their jurisdiction. This document helps to streamline the import process, reduce potential barriers, and foster trust between trading partners.

The issuance of a free sale certificate is overseen by regional authority under DGFT. It enables exporters to access new markets, expand their customer base, and increase their sales potential. By presenting this document, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to quality and compliance, enhancing their credibility and reputation in the global marketplace.

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Objectives of Free Sale & Commerce Certificate

A Free Sale Certificate (FSC) serves as a crucial document that provides an assurance from an external agency. It guarantees that the products listed in the certificate have been legally and openly traded and manufactured within the borders of the country seeking to export a specific item. Essentially, the FSC acts as a form of verification, assuring importing countries that the exported goods are compliant with all relevant regulations and standards.

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Important Note Free Sale & Commerce Certificate

In specific nations, a free sale certificate is a necessary document for commodities like medical devices, food items, cosmetics, and biological substances. This certificate, which is also known as a Certificate of Export or Certificate to Foreign Governments, is issued by the national regulatory authority of the exporting country. It serves as an official statement attesting to the fact that the products mentioned in the certificates are freely and commonly sold and consumed in their native country and are permitted for export.

In India, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is responsible for issuing the free sale certificate, which affirms that the products specified on the document can be freely manufactured and distributed in unrestricted markets within the exporting nation.

Eligibility for Free Sale Certificate

Any manufacturer or merchant exporter who deals in items not covered under drug and cosmetic act or falls under preview of drug license registration is eligible to appear to obtain a free sale certificate for their business.

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Documents Required for Free Sale & Commerce Certificate

The following are the documents that must be submitted during the registration for Anti Riot Shoes :-

  • Details of applicants
  • Details of firm/company
  • Digital Signature Certificate
  • FSSAI Certificate (if required)
  • Import Export Code Certificate
  • Details of item for such FSC is required
  • Registration cum Membership Certificate
  • Manufacturing License for free sale certificate
  • Product permission letters for the requested products
  • A letter from the concerned authority-demanding certificate

Aforementioned list of documents that are required by the authorities prior to approving "Free sale and commerce certificate" to the respective applicants.

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Fee for Free Sale Certificate

The Govt fee for free sale and commerce certificate (FCS) is INR 1,000 which is needed to be paid during application on DGFT portal itself.

The aforementioned Fees is exclusive of GST.

Validity of Free Sale Certificate

The free sale and commerce certificate is valid upto the time period of 2 years from the day of its issuance.

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Process for Obtaining Free Sale Certificate

The process of obtaining a Free Sale Certificate (FSC) typically involves the following steps:

Step 1: Determine the Need for an FSC

Determine whether an FSC is required for the specific product and the target export market. Check the import regulations and requirements of the importing country to ascertain if an FSC is necessary.

Step 2: Documentation for Application

Gather the necessary documents and information, such as:

  • Details of the applicant (individual or company)
  • Details of the firm or company
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
  • FSSAI Certificate (if applicable)
  • Import Export Code (IEC) Certificate
  • Details of the item for which the FSC is required
  • Registration cum Membership Certificate
  • Manufacturing License (if applicable)
  • Product permission letters for the requested products
  • A letter from the concerned authority requesting the certificate

All the documents are required to be attached with application during the time of filling of form.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Submit the completed application form along with the required documents and fees to the designated issuing authority. In India, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is responsible for issuing FSCs.

Step 4: Verification and Assessment

The issuing authority will verify the submitted documents and may conduct an assessment to ensure that the product meets the necessary requirements and standards. This may involve reviewing product specifications, quality control measures, and compliance with relevant regulations.

Step 5: Issuance of the FSC

Upon successful verification and assessment, the issuing authority will grant the FSC. The certificate will typically specify the product name, description, quantity, and other relevant details. It will also include a statement confirming that the product can be freely manufactured and distributed in the exporting country.

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Benefits of Free Sale and Commerce Certificate

A Free Sale and Commerce Certificate (FSC) offers numerous benefits to businesses engaged in international trade, including:

  1. Facilitates Export: An FSC serves as a crucial document that enables businesses to export non-restricted items across borders. It provides importing countries with the assurance that the exported products have met the necessary requirements and can be safely distributed and used within their jurisdiction.
  2. Reduces Trade Barriers: By presenting a free sale certificate "FSC", businesses can reduce potential barriers and streamline the import process. The certificate acts as a form of verification, assuring importing countries that the exported goods comply with relevant regulations and standards, thereby facilitating smoother trade transactions.
  3. Enhances Credibility and Reputation: An FSC demonstrates a business's commitment to quality and compliance. By meeting the requirements for obtaining an FSC, businesses enhance their credibility and reputation in the global marketplace. This can build trust among trading partners and increase sales potential.
  4. Access New Markets: Obtaining a free sale certificate can open up new market opportunities for businesses. By presenting this document, exporters can demonstrate that their products are legally and openly traded in their home country, making them more attractive to potential buyers in foreign markets.
  5. Ensures Compliance: An FSC provides assurance to importing countries that the exported products have met the necessary requirements and standards. This helps businesses comply with international trade regulations and avoid potential legal issues or penalties.
  6. Simplifies Documentation Process: A free sale certificate consolidates essential information about the exported products, including their legality, safety, and quality. This simplifies the documentation process for businesses and helps expedite customs clearance procedures.
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Conclusion

Obtaining a free sale certificate provides numerous advantages for businesses engaged in international trade. It facilitates the export process, reduces the risk of delays or rejections at customs, and enhances the credibility of the exporter. By presenting an FSC to importing authorities, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to quality and compliance, thereby fostering trust and opening doors to new markets and opportunities.

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FAQs

What is the fee for the free sale certificate "FSC"?

The Govt Fee for free sale Certificate is INR 1,000/- only. However our consultation chargers are negotiable.

What is the validity period of a free sale certificate?

The validity of the free sale certificate is upto 2 years.

How to get a free sale certificate for medical devices?

You can get your free sale certificate with Professional Utilities in just 3 steps

  1. Contact us
  2. Provide Documentation
  3. Issuance of certificate
How to get a free sale certificate from CDSCO?

The free sale certificate is issued by DGFT only. Therefore applicants are required to obtain their certificate from regional authority (RA) only.

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