International trade consulting services help businesses navigate the complex world of cross-border commerce, including import-export regulations, customs procedures, trade finance, and foreign exchange management. Our expert team provides comprehensive guidance on DGFT policies, trade agreements, export incentives, and compliance requirements to help Indian businesses expand globally. We assist with documentation, licensing, and strategic planning to maximize your international trade potential while minimizing regulatory risks.
"Successful international trade requires deep understanding of regulations, strategic planning, and meticulous compliance - we guide businesses through every step of their global expansion journey."
From obtaining Import Export Code (IEC) to navigating complex customs procedures, FEMA regulations, and trade finance options, our international trade services cover the entire spectrum of cross-border business needs. We help businesses leverage free trade agreements, special economic zones, export promotion schemes, and duty drawback benefits to enhance competitiveness in global markets.
Our experienced trade consultants help businesses navigate complex international regulations, optimize supply chains, access export incentives, and establish successful global trading operations with full compliance.
Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It is mandatory for any business entity engaged in import or export of goods and services in India. Without a valid IEC, no customs clearance for import/export shipments can be processed. The IEC is valid for a lifetime and requires no renewal, making it a one-time registration for international trade activities.
For import customs clearance, you typically need: Bill of Lading/Airway Bill, Commercial Invoice from the supplier, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Import License (if applicable), Insurance Certificate, Letter of Credit or payment documents, IEC copy, GST registration certificate, and a Bill of Entry filed through ICEGATE. Additional documents may be required based on the product category, such as phytosanitary certificates for food items or BIS certification for electronics.
Indian exporters can benefit from several government incentive schemes including: Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP), Advance Authorization Scheme for duty-free import of inputs, Duty Drawback Scheme for refund of customs duties, Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme for importing machinery at concessional rates, and benefits under Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and Export Oriented Units (EOU). Additionally, exporters can access subsidized credit through export finance schemes and interest equalization programs.
Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) governs all foreign exchange transactions in India. Key compliance requirements include: timely realization of export proceeds (typically within 9 months), proper documentation for import payments, filing of Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate (FIRC), Export Declaration Form (EDF) submission, adherence to RBI guidelines on advance remittances, and maintaining proper records of all forex transactions. Non-compliance can result in penalties up to three times the amount involved in the contravention.
Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) offer significant cost advantages through reduced or zero customs duties on eligible products exported to partner countries. India has FTAs with ASEAN, Japan, South Korea, UAE, Australia, and several other nations. To benefit, exporters must obtain a Certificate of Origin proving the goods meet origin criteria. Our consultants help identify applicable FTAs for your products, ensure proper HS code classification, guide documentation requirements, and maximize duty savings that can provide substantial competitive advantage in international markets.
