Import Export Code (IEC)

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a compulsory 10-digit business identification code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992. It serves as the primary trade passport for any Indian entrepreneur or business wishing to import goods and services into India or export merchandise globally.

Why is IEC Mandatory?

1. Port & Customs Clearance: Customs authorities at Indian seaports, air cargo complexes, and inland container depots will legally impound and refuse entry to any commercial shipment arriving without a valid IEC.
2. International Wire Remittances: Authorized Dealer (AD) Category banks cannot process foreign outward remittances (paying overseas suppliers) or credit inward foreign currency remittances (receiving export revenues from international clients) without linking your IEC.
3. Lifetime Validity with Zero Renewal Charges: Once issued by the DGFT, an IEC remains valid for the entire lifetime of your entity. There are no periodic renewal fees; only a mandatory free annual online status confirmation between April and June.
4. Unlocking Government Export Incentives: Holding an active IEC allows exporters to claim lucrative export incentive schemes such as:

• RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products)
• RoSCTL (Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies)
• Duty Drawback on customs duties paid for imported raw materials
• Advance Authorization & EPCG (Export Promotion Capital Goods) schemes allowing duty-free import of manufacturing machinery.

Documents Required for IEC:

• Business PAN Card
• Bank Certificate / Cancelled Cheque bearing account holder name, account number, and IFSC
• Valid Address Proof of Business Premises (Electricity bill, rent deed, or property tax receipt)
• Valid Aadhaar / PAN and mobile details of the applicant.

Anudipti Foreign Trade Support:

We guide you through the DGFT digital platform, link your digital signature/Aadhaar OTP, validate bank AD codes, and secure your electronic IEC within 24 to 48 hours.