Exporting from India can open doors to global opportunities — but only if you meet international standards and compliance. Certifications play a vital role in building trust with overseas buyers, clearing customs smoothly, and ensuring your products are legally accepted in foreign markets.
Here are the top certifications every Indian exporter should know about:
1.Importer Exporter Code (IEC) – Mandatory
This is the first and most essential license for starting any export activity from India.
- Issued by: DGFT (Director General of Foreign Trade)
- Required for: Sending shipments, receiving payments in foreign currency
- One-time registration, lifetime validity
Without an IEC, you cannot legally export from India.
2. RCMC – Registration-cum-Membership Certificate
RCMC is needed to become a registered exporter under any Export Promotion Council (EPC), like:
- FIEO (for all sectors)
- APEDA (agriculture products)
- EEPC (engineering goods)
- CEPC (handicrafts)
Helps you access government export benefits, schemes, and incentives.
3. FSSAI License – For Food Exporters
If you’re exporting processed foods, beverages, or raw agro products, you must have an FSSAI registration.
- Required by Indian law and many importing countries
- Ensures safety, hygiene, and labeling standards
Also helps in APEDA registration and food packaging approvals.
4. Phytosanitary Certificate (PSC) – For Plants & Agro Products
This certificate confirms that your agricultural or plant-based product is free from pests and diseases.
- Issued by: Plant Quarantine Department
- Mandatory for fruits, vegetables, spices, etc.
Required in most countries to comply with WTO-SPS agreements.
5. BIS Certification – For Certain Products
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) issues mandatory certifications for selected products like:
- Electrical items
- Helmets
- Chemicals
- Cement, etc.
Some countries also require your products to match BIS or equivalent ISO standards.
6. 🌍 ISO Certification – For Quality Assurance
ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certifications like:
- ISO 9001 (Quality)
- ISO 14001 (Environmental)
- ISO 22000 (Food Safety)
…help your business build credibility and trust globally — though not always mandatory.
✅ Highly recommended to gain buyer confidence in B2B deals.
7. 🛃 Certificate of Origin (CoO)
This certificate states which country the goods are manufactured in.
- Required for availing import duty benefits in buyer’s country (under trade agreements)
- Issued by: Indian Chamber of Commerce, EPCs, DGFT portals
✅ Must-have for smooth customs clearance in many countries.
🧾 Other Certificates (As per product & destination):
- GOTS (for organic textiles)
- HALAL (for meat & pharma)
- CE Marking (for EU markets)
- FDA (for exporting to the U.S.)
- REACH (for chemicals in EU)
📌 Final Thoughts:
“A well-prepared exporter is a trusted exporter.”
Getting the right certifications not only avoids legal delays but also increases your product’s value, credibility, and acceptance in international markets.