Master Import & Export Compliance Import & Export

Start trading across borders with complete legal compliance and expert support.
Whether you’re a first-time exporter or an established import business, we help you get the right licenses and registrations to operate smoothly.
Our services include IEC registration and renewal, AD Code registration, LUT filing, and industry-specific registrations like APEDA, FIEO, CHIMPS, and Spice, Coffee & Tea Board. With our guidance, you can meet government requirements, access export incentives, and avoid shipment delays — while focusing on growing your business globally.

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Import Export Code (IEC)

What is IEC?

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique identification number issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to individuals or businesses looking to begin international trade in India. It is a mandatory requirement for any entity involved in import or export of goods and services.
While the IEC does not require renewal like most government licenses, the DGFT mandates yearly updates on the IEC portal to maintain active status.

Why IEC?

Expanding your business beyond national borders starts with trading internationally. An active IEC enables businesses to legally import and export goods and services across countries. It not only benefits individual businesses but also contributes to the country’s economic growth. To promote this, the government has streamlined procedures through its Foreign Trade Policy, focusing on trade facilitation, reduced transaction costs, and simplified compliance.

Benefits of IEC

  • Enables legal import and export of goods and services across international borders

  • Facilitates global business expansion and entry into foreign markets

  • Required for customs clearance of shipments at ports and airports

  • Mandatory for receiving or making payments in foreign currency

  • Allows access to various export promotion schemes and government subsidies

  • Helps in claiming duty drawbacks and tax exemptions on exports

  • Builds credibility with international suppliers and buyers

  • IEC registration is a one-time process with lifetime validity

  • Simplified online application process through the DGFT portal

  • Required to apply for registrations like APEDA, FIEO, and other export councils

  • Supports electronic fund transfer and seamless DGFT compliance

  • Enhances business growth opportunities in international trade markets

IEC Renewal

While the IEC itself doesn’t expire, businesses must update or confirm their IEC details every year on the DGFT portal. Failure to do so may result in the IEC becoming inactive or flagged, affecting customs clearance and other operations.

AD Code

What is AD Code?

To begin an import-export business in India, two key registrations are mandatory: IEC (Import Export Code) and AD Code Registration. While the IEC allows international trade, the AD (Authorized Dealer) Code is required for customs clearance of goods. This 14-digit code is issued by banks and ensures that all foreign currency transactions in an exporter’s account are processed through legal banking channels.
AD Code registration must be done separately for each port from where goods are imported or exported.

Why AD Code?

The AD Code is essential for any business engaged in exporting goods from India. It is required to generate a shipping bill — a key document for customs clearance — on the ICEGATE portal. Without AD Code registration, exports cannot be processed legally at Indian ports. It also ensures that all foreign exchange transactions are routed through authorized banking channels and enables the smooth credit of export-related benefits, such as duty rebates and tax refunds, directly to the exporter’s current account. Additionally, the AD Code must be registered separately at every port used for exports.

Benefits of AD Code

  • Allows legal clearance of goods through Indian customs

  • Helps in expanding international trade operations efficiently

  • One-time registration process with no renewal or return filing required

  • Lifetime validity — the code remains active as long as the entity exists

  • Facilitates access to government incentives such as duty rebates, subsidies, and export benefits

  • Ensures seamless credit of government benefits directly into the exporter’s current account

  • Required to apply for schemes and benefits from DGFT, Customs, and Export Promotion Councils

 

APEDA

What is APEDA?

APEDA stands for Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, established under the APEDA Act of 1985. It is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, responsible for promoting and developing the export of scheduled agricultural and food products from India. APEDA sets quality standards, offers training, and supports exporters in complying with global market requirements.

Why APEDA?

India’s agricultural sector is the backbone of its economy — contributing around 17% to the national GDP and employing more than 50% of the population. Agricultural exports make up 10% of India’s total exports, making it vital to have streamlined export systems. For exporters dealing with scheduled products, APEDA Registration (RCMC) is mandatory.

Benefits of APEDA

  • Lifetime Validity – RCMC is a one-time registration with lifelong validity.

  • Mandatory for Exporters – Required for exporting scheduled products from India.

  • Access to Financial Assistance – Eligibility to apply for APEDA’s export promotion schemes.

  • Training & Development – Registered members can participate in capacity-building programs organized by APEDA.

  • Export Promotion Support – Access to global buyer-seller meets, exhibitions, and market development activities.

Spice Board

What is Spice Board?

The Spices Board of India is a government agency established in 1987 through the merger of the Cardamom Board (1968) and the Spices Export Promotion Council (1960). It operates under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, with dual responsibilities  of Development and promotion of cardamom production, and Export promotion of 52 scheduled spices listed under the Spices Board Act.

Why Spice Board Registration?

The Spices Board of India is a government agency established in 1987 through the merger of the Cardamom Board (1968) and the Spices Export Promotion Council (1960). It operates under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, with dual responsibilities  of Development and promotion of cardamom production, and Export promotion of 52 scheduled spices listed under the Spices Board Act.

Benefits of Spice Board Registration

  • Facilitates connections between Indian exporters and global importers

  • Helps identify reliable supply sources based on importer requirements

  • Forwards international trade inquiries to trusted Indian exporters

  • Organizes Indian participation in global spice exhibitions & trade shows

  • Provides a platform for exporters to interact with international buyers

  • Handles importer complaints and ensures preventive actions

  • Drives quality enhancement programs for Indian spices

  • Maintains an updated export-import database for stakeholders

  • Builds strong networks among exporters, government, and global trade bodies

  • Promotes Indian spices in international food fairs and festivals

LUT

What is LUT?

LUT (Letter of Undertaking) is a declaration filed by exporters with the GST department, allowing them to export goods or services without paying Integrated GST (IGST). The Government introduced this provision to encourage exports and ease the financial burden on businesses by eliminating the need to pay tax upfront and then claim refunds.

Why choose LUT registration over Refund route?

Earlier, exporters were required to pay IGST on their outward supplies and then claim a refund. While legally permitted, the refund process was time-consuming, affecting small and medium businesses facing cash flow issues.

Now, with LUT registration, exporters can carry out exports without tax payment, simply by declaring their intent to export under LUT — making the process zero-rated and liquidity-friendly.

Benefits of Spice Board Registration

  • Mandatory for IGST-Free Exports
    Exporters must file an LUT to legally export without paying IGST under GST rules.

  • Boosts Export Promotion
    LUT encourages smoother and faster global trade by supporting tax-free exports.

  • Faster Processing, Fewer Delays
    Avoid lengthy refund procedures — export instantly without waiting months for IGST reimbursement.

  • Preserves Working Capital
    Eliminate the need to block funds in taxes, enabling better cash flow and reinvestment in business growth.

  • Simplified Customs Clearance
    With LUT in place, exporters can complete customs processes faster and access global opportunities more easily.

Tea Board

What is Tea Board?

Tea Board India is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, established under the Tea Act, 1953 to regulate and promote the cultivation, processing, trade, and export of tea. Headquartered in Kolkata, it operates under the direct control of the Government of India and plays a crucial role in licensing and supporting legitimate tea traders across the country.

Who needs Tea Board Registration?

All individuals or businesses involved in the export of tea—including bulk tea, packet tea, tea bags, and instant tea—must obtain a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) from Tea Board India. This is mandatory under the Foreign Trade Policy of India to avail of export entitlements, government incentives, and duty drawback schemes.

Types of Licenses issued by Tea Board

The type of registration/license required depends on your tea trading activity. Some common categories include:

  • Exporter License

  • Distributor or Retailer License

  • Auction Organizer License

  • Warehouse or Manufacturer License

CHIMS

What is CHIMS?

CHIMS (Chip Import Monitoring System) is an electronic registration system introduced by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for importers of specific electronic integrated circuits. Effective from May 2021, CHIMS aims to monitor and regulate imports of chips and related products to support domestic manufacturing.

Under this system, certain HS codes (such as 85423100, 85423900, 85423200, 85429000, and 85423300) previously classified under “free” import policy have now been re-categorized as “free, subject to compulsory registration” through CHIMS.

Why CHIMS registration mandatory?

  • Compulsory for Customs Clearance
    Imports under specified HS codes cannot proceed without a valid CHIMS registration number, which is required at the time of filing the Bill of Entry.

  • Avoid Penalties & Legal Issues
    Non-compliance may lead to import delays, customs holds, or financial penalties under DGFT regulations.

  • Supports Make-in-India Vision
    CHIMS helps the government track and optimize chip imports, encouraging domestic production and reducing over-reliance on foreign suppliers.

  • Streamlined Import Monitoring
    The digital platform ensures real-time tracking and generates a unique registration number after submission, simplifying compliance for importers.

FIEO

What is FIEO?

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) is the apex body representing Indian exporters and was established in 1965 by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry in collaboration with private trade and industry sectors. FIEO serves as a bridge between the government and exporters, working to promote and support India’s foreign trade.

Why FIEO membership?

  • Global Market Exposure
    Gain international visibility and guidance to explore new trade opportunities across global markets.

  • Online Expert Guidance
    Get real-time support through FIEO’s online chat feature on topics such as Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), export incentives, and corporate regulations.

  • Free E-commerce Storefronts
    Run a free online store on eBay for 6 months and Amazon for 3 months exclusively as a registered FIEO exporter.

  • Air Travel Subsidy
    Enjoy 10% discounts on domestic and international flights — easing your travel costs for business promotions and trade events.

  • Discounted Credit Rating
    CRISIL, a leading credit rating agency, offers 10% off on its rating services for FIEO members, helping improve your business credibility.

  • Export Promotion Programs
    Access to training workshops, export seminars, certification programs, and trade fairs designed to equip you for successful global trade.

Essentials Everything You’ll Need to Register

Import Export Code

  • Pan card of business
  • Registration/Certification Number
  • Bank account details of the entity with Cancelled Cheque
  • Identity proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter Id Card, Passport)
  • Passport size photograph

FIEO Registration

  • PAN Card
  • Aadhar Card or Voter ID
  • Passport Photograph
  • Bank Statement (not older than two months)
  • Valid address proof of office which can be the latest electricity or any other utility bill
  • If it is a rented office, then No Objection Certificate is required from the owner of the property

APEDA Registration

  • The signed certificate from the bank
  • Import-Export Code issued by the DGFT for export
  • Duly signed APEDA Registration FORM
  • Statement of Account of the last 2 months
  • Cancelled Cheque is required
  • GST registration certificate

Tea Board Registration

  • Name, Address, Contact No. of all Directors/Partners (with proof)
  • Import Export Code issued by DGFT
  • Proof of Business registration
  • GST registration certificate
  • Memorandum and Article of Association
  • Declaration & Authorization Letter

LUT Registration

  • GST Certificate
  • Details of Witness

CHIMS Registration

  • Import Export Code
  • Email and Mobile Number those mentioned in the IEC Code Database
  • Bank Account Details, Address Proof, and some other mandatory documents

AD Code Registration

  • Exporter’s letter on letterhead requesting/authorizing the registration of AD Code
  • Bank’s AD Code authorization letter in Annexure-A (original)
  • Customs broker’s letter on letterhead requesting AD Code registration
  • GST registration certificate
  • Import-Export Code License
  • PAN Card
  • Export House Certificate (if any)
  • PAN, Aadhaar and Voter ID/Passport of the owners
  • Manufacturing Licence (if any)

Cofee Board Registration

  • IEC Code issued by DGFT
  • PAN Card of the Company/Firm
  • Proof of Business registration
  • GST registration certificate
  • Details of all Directors/Partners with passport size photographs
  • PAN Card
  • Bank Performance Letter Authorized Signatory of Bank
  • FSSAI License or MSME Certificate (for the manufacturer exporter)
  • Memorandum and Article of Association

ISO & Registrations

FSSAI Registraion

FSSAI State & Central License

FSSAI Return & Renewal

MSME Registration

NSIC Registration

Startup India Certificate

Barcode Registration

Digital Signature Certificate

Business Startup

Private Limited Company

Limited Liability Company

One Person Company

Public Limited Company

Section 8 Company

Shop Establishment

Import & Export

IEC Registration

IEC Renewal

APEDA Registration

AD Code Registration

LUT Registration

CHIMPS Registration

FIEO Registration

Spice, Coffee, Tea Board Registration

Trademark & IP

Trademark Registration

Trademark Objection Reply

Trademark Opposition

Copyright Registraiton

Patent Registraiton

ISO Certificate

Tax & Compliances

GST Registration

GST Modification

GST Returns

ITR Returns

TDS Returns

Accounting & Bookkeeping

Annual Compliances

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