APEDA Registration: Procedure, Documents, Fees & Product List
APEDA Registration: Procedure, Documents, Fees & Product List
APEDA Registration is a crucial requirement for Indian exporters seeking to expand into global markets for agricultural and processed food products. APEDA is a government body established under the APEDA Act, 1985, with the objective of promoting and facilitating the export of Indian agricultural produce. It supports exporters through financial assistance, market development initiatives, quality standardization, and training programs that enhance global competitiveness and international market access. Through APEDA Registration, exporters can avail benefits such as financial incentives, access to international marketplaces, and quality certification, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations.
At BizCatalyst, we understand the complexities involved in the APEDA registration process. Get in touch with BizCatalyst for expert guidance and a seamless experience in taking your business to international markets with confidence.
What is APEDA Registration?
APEDA stands for the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority. It is a mandatory registration for Indian exporters dealing in scheduled agricultural and processed food products under the APEDA Act, 1985. By the end of the financial year 2023, India’s exports of organic products crossed 312 thousand metric tons. APEDA plays a key role in promoting such exports by supporting stakeholders and facilitating the growth of agricultural and processed food exports globally.
Importance of APEDA Registration
The importance of APEDA Registration can be summarized as follows:
Financial Assistance:
APEDA registration enables exporters to avail various financial incentives and subsidies for market expansion, infrastructure development, and improvement of product quality.
Market Development Support:
APEDA helps exporters identify new and untapped international markets and provides assistance for participation in global trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer–seller meets.
Compliance with Quality Standards:
APEDA ensures that registered exporters adhere to internationally accepted quality standards, thereby improving the credibility and acceptance of Indian agricultural products worldwide.
Enhanced Brand Recognition:
APEDA registration strengthens brand visibility and builds trust among international buyers, enhancing the exporter’s reputation in global markets.
Ongoing Government Support:
Registered exporters receive continuous guidance and updates from APEDA on the latest government policies, regulatory changes, and global market trends, helping them stay competitive.
Product List Covered in APEDA are follows:
Fresh & Processed Fruits and Vegetables
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Processed fruits and vegetables
- Organic fruits and vegetables
Animal & Dairy Products
- Meat and meat products (buffalo meat, sheep/goat meat, pork, poultry, and other processed meats)
- Poultry and poultry products (eggs and processed poultry items)
- Dairy products (milk and milk products, cheese, butter, ghee)
- Animal by-products (animal casings, gelatin, ossein)
Cereals & Cereal Goods
- Rice
- Wheat
- Maize and other grains
- Organic cereals
Processed Products & Beverages
- Confectionery, biscuits, and bakery products (chocolates, candies, biscuits, cakes)
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, juices, soft drinks)
- Processed foods (ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook foods, pickles, sauces, chutneys, snacks, namkeen)
- Honey and honey products
Miscellaneous Products
- Groundnuts, peanuts, and tree nuts
- Floriculture and floriculture products (cut flowers, seeds, bulbs, tubers)
- Herbal and medicinal plants
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Eligibility Criteria for APEDA Registration
The eligibility criteria for APEDA Registration include the following:
Exporters:
Any individual or entity engaged in the export of scheduled agricultural and processed food products to international markets.
Agricultural Producers:
Farmers or agricultural producers who are directly involved in exporting their agricultural produce globally.
Manufacturers:
Businesses involved in the manufacture and processing of food products covered under APEDA.
Processors:
Companies and enterprises engaged in processing agricultural products specifically for export purposes.
Required Documents for APEDA Registration
The complete list of documents required for APEDA Registration is as follows:
Import Export Code (IEC) certificate issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
Bank Certificate
Partnership Deed, where applicable
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Valid address proof of the business premises
MSME Registration Certificate, if available
Halal Certificate, if applicable
These documents ensure verification of the exporter’s identity, business credentials, and regulatory compliance for APEDA registration.
Procedure for APEDA Registration
The complete step-by-step procedure for APEDA Registration is outlined below:
Step 1: Seek Professional Guidance
APEDA registration can be a detailed and compliance-driven process. Seeking professional assistance helps ensure accuracy and adherence to APEDA norms. With expert guidance, all requirements are properly assessed, documentation is handled efficiently, and the entire registration process is made smooth and error-free, allowing businesses to focus on growth and expansion.
Step 2: Create an APEDA Account
After understanding the requirements, the next step is to create an account on the APEDA online portal. This account is used to initiate and manage the APEDA registration application.
Step 3: Application Filing
Once the APEDA account is created, the online application is filed with accurate business details such as company information, contact details, Import Export Code (IEC), product specifications, and the required supporting documents. Proper filing ensures compliance with APEDA guidelines and avoids delays.
Step 4: Submission of Application
After filing the application, all entered details and uploaded documents are carefully reviewed for accuracy and completeness. The applicable registration fee is then paid through the online payment gateway, and the application is formally submitted to APEDA.
Step 5: Verification and Issuance of Certificate
APEDA authorities verify the submitted application and documents. If any discrepancies are found, clarifications may be requested. Upon successful verification, APEDA issues the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), commonly referred to as the APEDA Certificate.
Note:
From July 17, 2023, APEDA issues Registration-Cum-Membership Certificates (RCMCs) through the DGFT portal. To complete APEDA registration and legally export goods from India, businesses must possess a valid Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT.
Time Taken for APEDA Registration
APEDA Registration is generally completed within 3 to 4 working days, provided all required documents are submitted correctly and there are no discrepancies during the verification process.
