According to the Foreign Trade Policy, a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is required for exporters in order to avail benefits under the policy. Holding the certificate can also help exporters in availing benefits with respect to Customs and Excise. Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) is issued by Export Promotion Councils/Commodity board/Development authority or other competent authority as prescribed in FTP or HBP Vol 1.

MPEDA has been designated as the authority to issue RCMC for exporters of seafood items. After registering as an Exporter of MPEDA, the exporter can apply for RCMC in the prescribed format for obtaining Registration-cum-Membership certificate. The RCMC shall be deemed to be valid from 1st April of the licensing year in which it was issued and shall be valid for five years ending 31st March of the licensing year, unless otherwise specified.

Prospective/potential exporters may also on application register and become an associated member of an EPC.