Introduction
India is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of tea, known globally for its quality, variety, and rich heritage. From Assam and Darjeeling to Nilgiri and Kangra, Indian tea enjoys strong demand in international markets. However, to legally export tea from India and avail government benefits, exporters must comply with regulatory requirements. One of the most important registrations in this process is the Tea Board RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate).
The Tea Board of India, functioning under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, regulates and promotes the Indian tea industry. Any individual or business involved in exporting tea must obtain RCMC from the Tea Board. This certificate not only authorizes exporters to trade internationally but also enables them to access export incentives, financial assistance, and market development schemes offered by the government.
This article provides a detailed, structure-wise explanation of Tea Board RCMC, including its advantages, eligibility, required documents, application process, fees, validity, timelines, and compliance assistance.
What is Tea Board RCMC?
RCMC stands for Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate. It is a mandatory registration for exporters issued by the relevant Export Promotion Council (EPC). For tea exporters, the concerned authority is the Tea Board of India.
Tea Board RCMC serves as official proof that the exporter is registered with the Tea Board and is eligible to export tea products from India. Without this registration, exporters cannot claim benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) or participate in export promotion schemes.
Advantages of Tea Board RCMC
Obtaining Tea Board RCMC offers multiple benefits to exporters, both regulatory and commercial. Some key advantages include:
1. Legal Authorization for Tea Exports
RCMC is mandatory for exporting tea from India. It ensures compliance with export laws and avoids penalties or shipment delays.
2. Access to Export Incentives
RCMC holders can claim benefits under government schemes such as duty drawback, export promotion incentives, and financial assistance programs announced under the Foreign Trade Policy.
3. Market Development Support
The Tea Board provides support for participation in international trade fairs, exhibitions, buyer-seller meets, and promotional events.
4. Recognition and Credibility
RCMC enhances the exporter’s credibility in global markets and builds trust with overseas buyers and importers.
5. Policy Updates and Industry Guidance
Registered exporters receive regular updates on export-import policies, quality standards, and international trade regulations.
6. Financial Assistance Schemes
RCMC holders may be eligible for subsidies, reimbursement of certification costs, and marketing assistance for exports.
Who Needs Tea Board RCMC?
Tea Board RCMC is required by all entities involved in exporting tea products from India. This includes:
Proprietorship firms exporting tea
Partnership firms and LLPs
Private limited and public limited companies
Tea manufacturers exporting directly
Merchant exporters dealing in tea
Startups entering the tea export business
Whether exporting bulk tea, packaged tea, specialty tea, or value-added tea products, RCMC registration with the Tea Board is compulsory.
Documents Required for Tea Board RCMC
To apply for Tea Board RCMC, exporters must submit a set of basic business and export-related documents. The commonly required documents include:
Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT
PAN card of the business or applicant
Certificate of incorporation or business registration proof
Address proof of the business premises
Bank certificate or cancelled cheque
Digital signature certificate (DSC)
Details of tea products proposed for export
Self-declaration or undertaking as required
All documents should be valid, accurate, and consistent with IEC and DGFT records to avoid rejection or delays.
Application Process for Tea Board RCMC
The process of obtaining Tea Board RCMC is systematic and can be completed online. Below is a step-by-step overview:
Step 1: Obtain Import Export Code (IEC)
Before applying for RCMC, the exporter must have a valid IEC issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
Step 2: Online Registration
The exporter needs to register on the Tea Board portal and fill out the RCMC application form with business and export details.
Step 3: Upload Documents
All required documents must be uploaded in the prescribed format. Care should be taken to ensure clarity and correctness.
Step 4: Payment of Fees
The applicable registration fee must be paid online as per Tea Board guidelines.
Step 5: Application Review
The Tea Board verifies the submitted details and documents. In case of discrepancies, clarification may be requested.
Step 6: Issuance of RCMC
Once approved, the Tea Board issues the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate electronically.
Fee for Tea Board RCMC
The fee for Tea Board RCMC is generally nominal and may vary based on the exporter category and Tea Board notifications. The cost usually includes:
Registration fee
Membership charges (if applicable)
Renewal fee (for future renewals)
The exact fee structure should be checked at the time of application, as it may be updated periodically.
Timeline for Tea Board RCMC
The processing time for Tea Board RCMC is typically:
7 to 15 working days, provided all documents are correctly submitted
Delays may occur if there are discrepancies, incomplete documents, or verification issues. Professional assistance can help ensure faster approval.
Validity of Tea Board RCMC
Tea Board RCMC is generally valid for five years from the date of issuance, unless otherwise specified. Exporters must ensure timely renewal before expiry to continue availing export benefits and maintain compliance.
Failure to renew RCMC may result in loss of export incentives and regulatory issues.
PSR Compliance Assistance for Tea Board RCMC
Applying for Tea Board RCMC involves documentation accuracy, procedural compliance, and coordination with government authorities. Many exporters, especially first-time applicants, face challenges due to technical requirements or frequent policy updates.
Professional compliance assistance helps exporters by:
Ensuring error-free application filing
Verifying documents before submission
Tracking application status
Handling queries or objections raised by authorities
Providing end-to-end support for registration and renewal
Such assistance reduces delays, minimizes rejections, and allows exporters to focus on business growth rather than regulatory complexities.
For detailed guidance and assistance with Tea Board RCMC registration, you may refer to:
https://www.psrcompliance.com/tea-board-registration
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