As a small enterprise, you can have access to priority sector lending, tax exemptions & capital investment and power tariff subsidies.

An Importer Exporter Code is a unique 10-digit code, which is requisite for every import/export business owner in India. The code is issued by the Director-General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and needs no filing or renewal. IEC is required by importers to clear customs and shipment, and to transfer money to foreign banks. Exporters require IEC to send shipments and receive money from foreign banks. In short, no importer/exporter can operate in India without getting the IEC.

Eligibility :
Any type of business registration: Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Private Limited and Charitable organization dealing with the export and import of goods should register for Importer Exporter Goods.

Any type of business registration: sole proprietorship, partnership, private limited companies, charitable organizations dealing with import and exports of goods can register for import-export code, irrespective of the size. However, IE code is not required for Import/export of goods for personal use, which is not connected with trade, manufacture or agriculture. There is no need for a business set up.

VALIDITY OF IE CODE :
Once registered the Import Export Code is permanent and becomes valid for lifetime. Hence, there is absolutely no need for renewal or update. It lasts until the business ceases to exist or the registration is surrendered. Also, the business does not have to do any monthly or annual filings like GST, PF, etc.

Can Export /Import be made without having an Importer Exporter Code ?

No. IEC is a mandatory document for recognition by of India as Exporter / Importer of goods and services. However, if the value of goods is too low, the customs authorities may permit first export by imposing nominal charges which is highly unlikely to happen.