Navigating the World of Trade Understanding the MEIS License
Merchandise Exports from India Scheme

Navigating the World of Trade: Understanding the MEIS License

Understanding the MEIS License: A Gateway to Export Benefits in India

The Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) is a pivotal instrument for exporters in India, offering substantial benefits and addressing several inefficiencies and associated costs in the export sector. Instituted by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), the MEIS license is part of the broader India Scheme MEIS, aimed at promoting exports from India, particularly in notified markets. By providing duty credit scrips to exporters, the scheme enhances the competitiveness of Indian exports, including a wide range of goods and capital goods.

Benefits of the MEIS License for Exporters

Exporters utilizing the MEIS license benefit from duty credit scrips, which can offset customs duty on imports. This is particularly beneficial for those importing inputs for their export products. Furthermore, these scrips are freely transferable, allowing exporters flexibility in their use.

This flexibility extends to covering expenses incurred in foreign exchange earned through international credit cards and other instruments. By reducing costs and simplifying processes, the MEIS license plays a crucial role in bolstering India’s export industry.

Applying for an MEIS License in India

Online Application Process

ANF-3A Form: Complete this form online, ensuring all details are filled in correctly. Include a digital signature before submission.

DGFT Website Registration: Apply on the Directorate General of Foreign Trade’s website.

Port-Specific Applications: Each export port requires a separate application.

Application Limits: A single application can cover up to 50 shipping bills.

RCMC Requirement: Under the Foreign Trade Policy, a Registration cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) is mandatory for all exports to qualify for MEIS benefits.

Documentation for EDI and Non-EDI Ports

EDI Ports: For exports through Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) ports, you don’t need to submit the physical application, shipping bill, Electronic Bank Realisation Certificate (e-BRC), or RCMC. However, proof of goods reaching the intended destination is required.

Non-EDI Ports: For non-EDI ports, all relevant documents (both original and scanned) must be submitted to claim incentive scrips.

Additional Guidelines

Document Retention: Keep original documents for three years from the date of receiving incentive scrips. They may be requested by the licensing authority.

Incentive Scrip Refund: If unable to provide original documents when requested, you must refund the incentive scrips and pay interest as determined by the authority.

Application Deadline: Apply within 12 months from the Let Export Order (LEO) date, or within three months of uploading data to the DGFT server.

Utilizing MEIS Incentives

MEIS incentives, provided as duty credit scrips, can be used for:

  • Importing products and inputs.
  • Paying customs, safeguard, and anti-dumping duties.
  • These scrips are transferable and can be used for importing goods.

Goods Supported and Excluded Under MEIS

Supported Goods: Includes spices, essential oils, fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, eco-friendly products (like jute and handlooms), marine products, textiles, pharmaceuticals, machinery, chemicals, and more.

Excluded Goods: Cereals, various sugars, crude oil, meat products, metals like gold and silver, jewelry, exports from Free Trade Warehousing Zones, certain ores, and re-exports of foreign-made goods.

Scheme Duration

The MEIS scheme, part of India’s 2015-2020 Foreign Trade Policy, was operational from 1st April 2015 until 31st March 2020.

The MEIS scheme was designed to boost Indian exports by offering incentives for eligible products. It was replaced by the RoDTEP scheme in 2021 to align with World Trade Organisation regulations and support less successful export categories.

The Role of Duty Exchange in Facilitating MEIS License Applications

DutyExchange.com, offers comprehensive assistance to exporters in navigating the complexities of the MEIS license application. Their expertise covers the intricacies of the scheme, including understanding the market linked focus product scheme and the agri infrastructure incentive scheme, which are part of the broader MEIS framework. Duty Exchange’s services ensure that exporters can efficiently obtain their MEIS license, thereby maximizing the benefits of the scheme.

Streamlining Export Processes with MEIS License

The MEIS license, through initiatives like the Vishesh Krishi Gramin Udyog Yojana, has streamlined the process for exporters, reducing the inefficiencies traditionally associated with export-related procedures. The scheme’s focus on market diversification, particularly in notified markets, has opened new avenues for Indian exporters, enhancing their global presence.

Leveraging MEIS License for Export Success

The MEIS license is an essential tool for Indian exporters, offering significant benefits and streamlining export processes. With the support of platforms like Duty Exchange, navigating the application process and leveraging the scheme’s advantages becomes more accessible, empowering exporters to expand their global footprint. The MEIS license, as a part of the merchandise exports from India scheme, is not just a financial benefit but a strategic asset in the competitive world of international trade.