In 2025, global trade dynamics are evolving faster than ever, and Indian exporters are finding themselves navigating an increasingly regulated landscape. From product certifications to environmental clearances, compliance is no longer a box-ticking exercise — it’s a passport to credibility, trust, and market access. To help exporters stay ahead, here are the five must-have government clearances that no exporter should overlook in 2025.

1. Importer Exporter Code (IEC) Registration

The IEC is the foundation of any export business. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), this 10-digit code is mandatory for anyone wishing to import or export goods and services from India. Without an IEC, exporters cannot legally ship products abroad or receive foreign currency payments. It’s a one-time registration but must be updated regularly to stay compliant with DGFT guidelines.

2. Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)

To access export incentives and participate in trade fairs or tenders, exporters must obtain an RCMC from the respective Export Promotion Council (EPC). For instance, textile exporters need membership under TEXPROCIL or AEPC, while food exporters can register with APEDA. The RCMC not only validates your status as a registered exporter but also ensures eligibility for government schemes under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP).

3. BIS Certification

For manufacturers exporting to markets that demand strict quality assurance, a BIS Certification is essential. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) ensures that products meet quality, safety, and performance standards. In 2025, BIS certification has gained added importance due to rising global concerns about product reliability and sustainability. This clearance is particularly important for exporters dealing in electronics, appliances, construction materials, and medical devices.

4. Pollution Control Board (PCB) Consent

With global buyers emphasizing sustainable practices, exporters must also secure environmental clearances from state-level Pollution Control Boards. The Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) certificates ensure that your manufacturing units comply with environmental norms. Whether your unit is in Uttar Pradesh or Karnataka, having these clearances strengthens your brand’s environmental credibility and minimizes legal risks.

5. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Registration

Sustainability has become a non-negotiable aspect of exports. The EPR registration, especially under Battery Waste, Plastic Waste, and E-Waste Management Rules, ensures that exporters take responsibility for recycling and managing waste generated from their products. In 2025, global trade partners are expected to enforce stricter environmental due diligence, making EPR a key compliance certificate for exporters of electronic goods, packaging materials, and batteries.

Conclusion

These five clearances form the backbone of a compliant export operation. In a global economy that prizes transparency, documentation, and sustainability, securing these approvals not only protects exporters from penalties but also builds lasting trust with international buyers.

About Agile Regulatory

Agile Regulatory is a leading compliance and certification consultancy helping Indian exporters achieve smooth regulatory approvals across multiple sectors. From BIS Certification and EPR Registration to Pollution Control Board clearances and RCMC registration, Agile Regulatory provides end-to-end support for all export compliance needs. With a team of industry experts, the firm ensures timely documentation, simplified processes, and regulatory accuracy to help your business expand globally without legal roadblocks.