DGFT – Directorate General of Foreign Trade

The DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) is an agency under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, responsible for overseeing and regulating India’s foreign trade. The DGFT plays a crucial role in promoting exports and imports, issuing licenses and permits, and ensuring compliance with the Export-Import Policy (EXIM Policy).

Services Offered by DGFT

  1. Import and Export Code (IEC):

    • Every business or individual engaged in export or import activities in India must obtain an IEC number from DGFT. This unique code acts as a universal identifier for your business when conducting international trade.
    • IEC Registration: You can apply for IEC online via the DGFT portal, and it is issued instantly upon approval.
    • IEC Renewal: IEC must be renewed periodically as per the regulations of the DGFT.

  2. Export Incentives and Schemes:
    The DGFT provides various export incentives, schemes, and subsidies to encourage and support Indian exporters. Some of these incentives include the Merchandise Export Incentive Scheme (MEIS), Service Export Incentive Scheme (SEIS), Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme, and more. These incentives aim to boost exports, enhance competitiveness, and promote economic growth.

  3. Export Licenses:
    The DGFT issues various export licenses and permits for products requiring specific permission, like restricted or prohibited items, sensitive goods, or items under export control regulations.

  4. Import Licensing:
    Import licenses or permissions may be required for certain products or commodities, depending on their classification under the EXIM policy. The DGFT provides the necessary import licenses and permits for such goods.

  5. Special Advance Authorization Scheme:
    This scheme allows duty-free imports of inputs used in the manufacture of export goods, enabling exporters to enhance their competitiveness in the international market.

  6. DGFT Online Services:
    The DGFT provides a seamless and efficient online platform for traders, exporters, and importers to apply for various licenses, track the status of their applications, and access information about DGFT policies and regulations.

Application Process for DGFT Services

  1. IEC Application:

    • Register on the DGFT website (https://www.dgft.gov.in/).
    • Fill in the required details and upload necessary documents (identity proof, business address proof, PAN card, etc.).
    • Submit the application and pay the applicable fee.
    • After review and verification, the DGFT will issue your IEC number.

  2. Export Incentives:

    • Apply online for schemes like MEIS, SEIS, or EPCG through the DGFT portal.
    • Submit the required documents, like proof of exports, invoices, shipping bills, etc.
    • DGFT will process your application and grant the incentives, which can be availed as rewards, refunds, or subsidies.

  3. Export and Import Licensing:

    • Apply for export or import licenses through the DGFT online portal.
    • Upload the necessary documents, such as product details, technical specifications, compliance certificates, etc.
    • After review, the DGFT will grant the required licenses or permissions.

  4. DGFT Support for Compliance:

    • The DGFT ensures compliance with the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Export Promotion Scheme, and other trade regulations.
    • Businesses can seek support and guidance from DGFT for any clarification or help related to foreign trade operations.

Documents Required for DGFT Services

  • For IEC Application:

    • PAN Card of the business or applicant.
    • Proof of Business Address (e.g., electricity bill, lease agreement).
    • Passport-size photographs of the applicant.
    • Cancelled cheque or bank details.
    • Identity proof (Aadhar card, Voter ID, etc.).

  • For Export Incentives:

    • Shipping Bills, Export Invoices, and GST Returns.
    • Export Order or Agreement.
    • Certificate of Origin (if applicable).
    • Any other documents as per the scheme requirements.

  • For Export or Import Licensing:

    • Product specifications, HS Code, technical certificates, permits or approvals from other regulatory bodies, etc.

Importance of DGFT Services

  1. Facilitates International Trade:
    The DGFT plays a key role in regulating and promoting international trade for India, making it easier for businesses to engage in export and import activities.

  2. Promotes Export Growth:
    By providing various export incentives, licenses, and support, the DGFT encourages Indian businesses to export their goods and services, helping boost the country’s economy.

  3. Ensures Compliance:
    The DGFT ensures that businesses and traders comply with the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and related regulations, thus promoting fair and transparent trade practices.

  4. Enhances Business Competitiveness:
    Through the DGFT’s various schemes and incentives, Indian exporters can improve their competitiveness in the global market, increasing their exports.

  5. Simplifies Processes:
    The DGFT has an online portal that streamlines various processes related to foreign trade, from applying for licenses to tracking incentives or licenses’ status.

Why Choose AK Mehta & Associates for DGFT Services?

  1. Expert Guidance:
    Our team of experienced professionals provides comprehensive support and guidance to help you navigate through the DGFT procedures, from IEC registration to export incentives or licenses.

  2. Seamless Application Process:
    We assist you in preparing and submitting all necessary documents, ensuring accuracy and quick approval of your applications.

  3. Compliance Assurance:
    Our experts will help you stay compliant with the latest foreign trade policies and regulations, minimizing risks and potential penalties.

  4. Timely Processing:
    We work efficiently to ensure your applications and licenses are processed quickly, so your business operations can continue without delays.

Contact Us Today

If you need expert assistance with DGFT services, whether it’s for IEC registration, applying for export incentives, or any other DGFT-related activities, AK Mehta & Associates is here to help. Contact us for quick, reliable, and expert services to support your foreign trade operations!

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