DGFT eBRC Certificate

Are looking to expand your business internationally? As an exporter in India, the Electronic Bank Realization Certificate (e-BRC) is an essential digital certificate that you need to be familiar with. This certificate is issued by authorised banks in India, and it serves as proof of payment received for exports made in foreign currency. The e-BRC is a crucial financial document required to avail of various export incentives offered by the government, such as duty exemptions, subsidies, and low-cost loans. In this informative post, we will dive into the details of e-BRC certification in India and explain its importance for exporters. So, keep reading to understand how e-BRCs work and how they can benefit your export business.

I. Introduction

A. Explanation of DGFT eBRC Certificate

The DGFT eBRC Certificate is an electronic certificate that is issued by a bank as proof of payment for exports made by an exporter. It is an important document for those involved in an export business as it is required when applying for benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy. The eBRC Certificate also helps exporters to claim various export incentives such as duty exemptions, subsidies and low-cost loans offered by the government. This was a lengthy process which made claiming export incentives a complicated process, but with the introduction of the eBRC platform, the process has become much easier and accessible. The eBRC platform allows banks to electronically upload all foreign exchange realization-related information, and it is an electronically facilitated document that proves receipt of payment against an international trade transaction by an exporter. It is an essential source of financial information and economic indicator, and it has made paperless trade an integrated platform that enables the electronic transmission of Foreign Exchange Realization Information from Banks directly to DGFT’s server.

B. Reasons why DGFT eBRC Certificate is important

TheFT eBRC Certificate is an essential digital certificate for individuals and businesses engaged in foreign trade transactions. Having a valid eBRC is necessary to avail of various export incentives such as duty exemptions, subsidies, and low-cost loans provided by the government as part of its Foreign Trade Policy. The eBRC platform allows banks to electronically upload all foreign exchange realization-related information related to exports, which is transmitted through a digital certificate, making the process of claiming export incentives much easier and accessible. This not only saves time and money but also promotes paperless trade, reducing the need for manual procedures. Moreover, the eBRC is proof of export and ensures compliance with international trade regulations. Overall, the DGFT eBRC Certificate plays a crucial role in facilitating foreign trade transactions and promoting economic growth.

II. What is DGFT eBRC Certificate?

A. Definition of DGFT eBRC Certificate

The Electronic Bank Realisation Certificate (eBRC) is a critical digital certificate for individuals in the export sector in India. It is provided by a bank as proof that the exporter has received payment from the importer for items exported. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in India formulates and implements the Foreign Trade Policy, and many of the export incentives it promotes require a valid BRC as evidence of payment for shipments made. The eBRC is used by an exporter as proof of reality of export for any company applying for benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy. This certificate serves as proof that a company has realized payment for exports and is issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to exporters in India to ensure that the foreign exchange earnings of the exporter have been repatriated back into India. Moreover, DGFT’s eBRC initiative aims to digitize and systematically record foreign trade transactions and promote paperless trade.

B. Advantages of having DGFT eBRC Certificate

Having a DGFT eBRC Certificate comes with several advantages for exporters. Firstly, it is an important digital certificate that provides proof of payment and export, allowing exporters to claim various export incentives such as duty exemptions, subsidies, and low-cost loans offered by the government under the Foreign Trade Policy. Secondly, obtaining an e-BRC is now a paperless process, which saves time and money previously spent on physical documentation. Moreover, e-BRC is an important source of financial information and also acts as an economic indicator. Furthermore, e-BRC has facilitated the implementation of various export promotion schemes without any physical interface with the stake holders. Above all, having a valid BRC as proof of realization of payment against exports made is required for any business applying for benefits under Foreign Trade Policy. Overall, having a DGFT eBRC Certificate is essential for any exporter seeking to conduct business smoothly and take advantage of various schemes and incentives offered by the government.

C. Uses of DGFT eBRC Certificate

The Electronic Bank Realisation Certificate (eBRC) is a digital certificate that provides proof of export for any company applying for benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy. The eBRC serves as evidence a company has received payment for exports, and it is an essential source of economic indicators and financial data. The eBRC is used by exporters to claim various export benefits such as Duty Drawback, Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), and Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS), among others. With eBRC, there is less human interaction and lower transaction costs for giving export advantages to exporters. DGFT currently receives information for shipping bills electronically via EDI ports, and with new integration with banks, it now receives foreign currency realization details as well, which can be connected to each shipping bill. The information from the shipping bill and the eBRC are linked so that the value at which the exporter would receive the incentive may be validated.

III. How to apply for DGFT eBRC Certificate?

A. Steps on how to obtain DGFT eBRC Certificate

Obtaining a DGFT eBRC Certificate is essential if you’re an exporter who wants to claim export incentives. Thankfully, the process is relatively straightforward. First, you’ll need to have an Export Data Processing and Monitoring System (EDPMS) shipping bill that reflects all the export transactions you’ve made. Once you’ve received payment for these transactions, you’ll need to submit all the shipping bills, along with the payment receipts, to your bank. Your bank will then generate an XML file containing all the payment details and digitally sign it, before uploading it on the DGFT’s server on either a daily or twice-daily basis. Once this is done, you can view the status of your eBRC on DGFT’s website by selecting the “View and print your eBRC” option and entering your IEC and IFSC code. Finally, click on the “Show Details” option to display all the e-BRCs uploaded by your bank. Congratulations! You are now in possession of a DGFT eBRC Certificate.

B. Documents needed to apply for DGFT eBRC Certificate

To obtain a DGFT eBRC Certificate in India, there are a few documents that you need to provide. First, you need to have a valid Import Export Code (IEC) issued by the DGFT. You will also need to provide your bank account details and a valid PAN card for verification purposes. In addition, you need to provide a copy of your export invoice, shipping bill, and bill of lading. These documents are required to prove that you have indeed exported goods or services and received payment for them. Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply for your DGFT eBRC Certificate online through the DGFT portal. This process is relatively easy and streamlined, and you can obtain your eBRC within a few days of application. Having a DGFT eBRC Certificate is important for any Indian exporter looking to claim benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy and other export schemes. 

C. Process flow of application for DGFT eBRC Certificate

Obtaining a DGFT eBRC Certificate involves following a specific process flow. Firstly, the exporter needs to submit the required documents to the authorized dealer, including the Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate (FIRC) and a covering letter for the issuance of the eBRC Certificate. These documents must be filed within 21 days from the date of shipment to avoid delay and provide a valid reason if there is a delay. Once all documents are verified and found to be correct, the authorized dealer will issue the eBRC Certificate to the exporter. It is important to note that exporters are absolved of their obligation to receive export proceeds into India after the certificate is issued. The eBRC is then used by the exporter to claim export incentives such as duty exemptions, subsidies, and low-cost loans. Thanks to the online eBRC Module platform, exporters can now benefit from a paperless and integrated platform, making it easier to claim their incentives.

IV. Importance of DGFT eBRC Certificate

A. Benefits of having DGFT eBRC Certificate

Having a DGFT eBRC Certificate can bring several benefits to those involved in export business. Firstly, this electronic certificate serves as proof that the exporter has received payment from the importer against the export of goods or services. This provides transparency and accountability in international trade transactions. Secondly, the eBRC Certificate enables exporters to claim various benefits, such as duty exemptions, subsidies, and low-cost loans, under the Foreign Trade Policy. This can help businesses save costs and enhance profits. Thirdly, the eBRC platform promotes paperless trade, thereby reducing the need for physical documents and making the process of claiming export incentives much more accessible. Overall, obtaining a DGFT eBRC Certificate is an essential step for those seeking to engage in international trade and enjoy the benefits that come with it.

B. Significance in international trade

The DGFT eBRC certificate holds great importance in international trade. For starters, it acts as evidence of export and payment receipt for an international trade transaction. This makes it easier for exporters to claim various export benefits such as duty drawback, and merchandise and service exports from India schemes, among others. Additionally, the eBRC allows for less human interaction and lower transaction costs for giving export advantages to exporters, making it a more efficient process. Furthermore, the eBRC initiative aims to digitize and systematically record foreign trade transactions, making it easier for the Directorate General of Foreign Trade to monitor and regulate international trade. Overall, the DGFT eBRC certificate acts as a crucial digital certificate for individuals in the export sector looking to take advantage of numerous export incentives provided by the government as part of its foreign trade policy.

C. Compliances related to DGFT eBRC Certificate

As exporter in India, obtaining a Digital Bank Realisation Certificate (eBRC) is crucial to receiving various export incentives. However, it is important to note that compliance is essential while using the eBRC. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) preserves the right to cancel, revoke, or modify the eBRC in case of any error if there is a violation of the regulations. Additionally, if an exporter is found guilty of misusing the eBRC, hefty penalties and strict actions may be taken against them. Exporters must ensure that the eBRC is used only for the purpose it is intended, and all information entered is accurate. The eBRC is an electronic document, and the data submitted is logged electronically, hence ensuring compliance is essential. As bureaucratic and compliance-heavy as the process may seem, the eBRC is a vital component in the facilitation of foreign trade in India. By ensuring compliance, exporters can reap the benefits of the eBRC, including duty exemptions, low-cost loans, and subsidies, among others.

V. Limitations of DGFT eBRC Certificate

A. Restrictions on use of DGFT eBRC Certificate

There are certain restrictions that come along with the usage of DGFT eBRC certificates that must be kept in mind. Firstly, it is important to note that eBRC certificates cannot be transferred or used by anyone other than the person or firm to which the certificate has been issued. Additionally, eBRC certificates can only be used for the specific purpose they have been issued for and cannot be used for any other purpose. Moreover, eBRC certificates also have an expiry date and must be used within a certain time frame. It is crucial to renew the certificate before expiry to avoid any penalties or legal implications. Any misuse or violation of these rules can result in severe penalties or cancellation of the certificate. It is important to follow these restrictions to avoid any legal issues and maintain the integrity of the DGFT eBRC system.

B. Expiry and renewal of DGFT eBRC Certificate

The DGFT eBRC Certificate has a validity period of 24 months from the date of issue and must be renewed before its expiry date. To renew the certificate, the exporter must submit an online application along with the required documents and fees to the DGFT portal. The process is straightforward and does not require physical visits to the DGFT office. Failure to renew the certificate on time may lead to penalties and other legal implications. Moreover, the expired certificate may cause issues during customs clearance and may result in delays and loss of business. Therefore, it is crucial to keep track of the certificate’s expiry date and renew it before expiry to ensure compliance with the Foreign Trade Policy and avoid any unwanted hurdles. With all the advantages that come with the DGFT eBRC Certificate, it’s essential to keep it in good standing and renew it on time for uninterrupted international trade.

C. Penalties for misuse of DGFT eBRC Certificate

Mis of the DGFT eBRC Certificate can lead to severe penalties and legal consequences. Any attempt to forge or tamper with the eBRC certificate can result in debarment from accessing any benefits under any Foreign Trade policy schemes. The offender can also face criminal proceedings under the Indian Penal Code and other relevant acts. Moreover, the eBRC certificate is non-transferable and can be used only by the exporter who has earned foreign exchange. Any attempt to use someone else’s eBRC or lend it to someone else is a punishable offence. Exporting goods without obtaining a valid and genuine eBRC certificate can also attract penalties, and such cases can be detected through post-shipment audits. It’s crucial to understand the significance of the DGFT eBRC certificate and use it only for genuine transactions to avoid any legal repercussions.

VI. Conclusion

A. Recap of the importance of DGFT eBRC Certificate

In conclusion, the DGFT eBRC Certificate is a crucial digital certificate for exporters in India. The eBRC Certificate is an electronically facilitated document that provides proof of payment against international trade transactions. The DGFT introduced the eBRC Module to promote paperless trade, allowing banks to electronically upload all foreign exchange realization-related information to the DGFT server. With the eBRC, exporters no longer need to go physically to their banks to obtain BRCs, and the process of claiming benefits from DGFT and other export agencies is much more accessible. The eBRC is essential financial information and economic indicator source, which is significant in international trade and compliance-related matters. Although there are restrictions on the use of the eBRC, its benefits are paramount for exporters to avail of export incentives, duty exemptions, subsidies, low-cost loans, and more. The DGFT eBRC Certificate simplifies and streamlines the entire process of foreign trade transactions, making it a crucial document for all exporters in India.