India’s foreign trade landscape continues to evolve, offering new opportunities for exporters in 2025. The Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), governed by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), outlines the regulatory framework for promoting exports and imports in a structured, efficient, and compliant manner. For aspiring exporters, understanding the key compliance requirements under the FTP is crucial not just to start operations, but to sustain and grow their business globally.
Understanding the Framework
The 2023 FTP (extended till further notice) focuses on digitization, sustainability, and simplifying export procedures. Exporters must register their business with the DGFT and obtain an Importer Exporter Code (IEC)—a mandatory step without which no export or import activity can be carried out legally. It’s a one-time registration, but any change in business structure or address must be updated to stay compliant.
Additionally, exporters dealing in specific product categories may require registration with Export Promotion Councils (EPCs). This includes obtaining the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC). For instance, exporters of spices, textiles, agricultural products, or chemicals must be registered with respective councils like APEDA, Spices Board, or CAPEXIL. The RCMC allows exporters to avail benefits under various DGFT schemes and serves as proof of authenticity in global markets.
Product-Specific and Environmental Compliances
With increasing emphasis on sustainability and traceability, product-specific compliances have become vital. For example, exporters of electronics must ensure compliance with EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) obligations, and food exporters need certifications such as FSSAI, GACC, or BIS, depending on the destination country.
Additionally, exporters of sensitive or regulated goods must verify their products against DGFT’s export control lists. In 2025, digital portals have been enhanced for applying for such permissions, but any failure to secure the right license could result in penalties or rejection of goods at foreign customs.
Taxation and Logistics Readiness
Exporters must also understand GST refund mechanisms and Letter of Undertaking (LUT) filing to avoid paying IGST on exports. Moreover, maintaining proper shipping bills, e-BRCs (Bank Realisation Certificates), and customs clearance documents is essential for availing incentives and ensuring audit-readiness.
Alongside compliance, having a well-managed logistics chain and choosing the right shipping partners is equally important. Exporters must register on ICEGATE, the Indian Customs’ electronic platform, to manage shipping documentation and track exports in real-time.
How Agile Regulatory Can Help
For new and aspiring exporters, navigating these requirements alone can be overwhelming. Agile Regulatory offers end-to-end support for setting up your export business—right from IEC registration and RCMC to product-specific licenses and EPR filings. With an expert team that stays updated on evolving DGFT norms and export schemes, Agile Regulatory ensures that you remain fully compliant while focusing on growing your international business. Whether you're exporting spices, electronics, or food products, Agile Regulatory streamlines the documentation, approvals, and liaison with authorities, making exports in 2025 easier and more efficient.
By staying compliant with India’s Foreign Trade Policy and partnering with the right consultants, exporters can confidently tap into global markets and contribute to India’s trade growth vision.