Export compliance reforms in India are driving faster clearances, reduced paperwork, and improved transparency. From DGFT to Customs, the government is modernising export systems to support MSMEs, reduce fraud, and boost ease of doing business.
Key Government Initiatives for Export Compliance
Here’s a snapshot of major reforms taken to streamline India’s export compliance framework:
1. Revamped ICEGATE and e-SANCHIT System
The ICEGATE portal (Indian Customs EDI Gateway) now allows:
- Electronic submission of shipping bills, invoices, and e-BRCs
- Faster clearance via Risk Management System (RMS)
- Use of e-SANCHIT to upload supporting documents (bills of lading, declarations) online
📌 Notification Reference: CBIC Circular No. 42/2019-Customs dated 29.11.2019
2. Digitised RoDTEP and RoSCTL Claims
Export incentives like RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) and RoSCTL are now processed:
- Through automatic generation of scrolls via ICEGATE
- Linked to valid AD code and e-BRC for settlement
📌 Reference: DGFT Trade Notice No. 16/2021-22
3. Online Issuance of COO (Certificate of Origin)
Exporters can now apply for a COO (Preferential/Non-preferential) online via:
- https://coo.dgft.gov.in
- Integrated with Customs for real-time tracking and verification
4. Mandatory Registration for HS Codes under DGFT
Under Track & Trace policy, high-risk goods (like pharmaceuticals) require:
- RCMC from Export Promotion Council
- HS code registration on DGFT portal to avoid duplication/misclassification
Export Compliance Reforms and Transparency
The push toward digital compliance has made the export ecosystem more transparent in multiple ways:
| Before Reform | After Reform |
|---|---|
| Manual document submission | e-SANCHIT & ICEGATE digital uploads |
| Delays in RoDTEP/MEIS settlements | Auto credit through DGFT/ICEGATE sync |
| No real-time tracking | End-to-end visibility via portals |
| Human error in classification | HS-code mapping via AI modules |
Expert View: Why It Matters for MSMEs
“Small exporters now save time and compliance cost. These reforms directly cut red tape, helping MSMEs scale exports faster.”
— Rajesh R., Export Consultant
Practical Tips for Exporters
- Always update DSC and IEC code on DGFT portal before filing
- Use the ICEGATE helpdesk to avoid rejection due to AD Code mismatch
- For RoDTEP claims, ensure e-BRCs are correctly tagged to shipping bills
- Watch for DGFT trade notices on HS code restrictions or additions
FAQs on Export Compliance System
Q1. Is e-SANCHIT mandatory for all exports?
Yes, for customs clearances, all relevant docs must be uploaded digitally via e-SANCHIT.
Q2. Can RoDTEP be claimed without e-BRC?
No, e-BRC is essential as proof of realisation for crediting RoDTEP to exporter accounts.
Q3. Where can I track RoDTEP claim status?
On www.icegate.gov.in using the shipping bill number.
Final Thoughts
With these export compliance reforms, India is moving closer to global best practices in trade facilitation. The focus is clearly on digitisation, transparency, and speed. Exporters, especially MSMEs, must adapt quickly to leverage these systems.
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Summary
Export compliance reforms like ICEGATE, e-SANCHIT, and RoDTEP digitisation improve transparency, reduce delays, and simplify processes for Indian exporters.