08 July 2015
MAM,, The first requirement before you start an import/ export business in India is to obtain an IEC. An IEC is necessary for import/export of goods. In case the import/export is of services or technology, IEC is required in only limited circumstances, when import/export is in ‘specified services’ or ‘specified technologies’, i.e. services or technologies in which international trade is restricted by the Government of India as they pertain to national security, such as dealing in nuclear weapons, automatic guns, etc.
IEC is not required under the following circumstances:
1. Import/export of goods for personal use, which is not connected with trade, manufacture or agriculture.
2. Import/export by government ministries and departments, and certain notified charitable organizations.
2) The DGFT has provided online filing facility for obtaining IEC and other authorizations. Form ANF 2A requires basic details of the business and its proprietors, partners or directors (as applicable), bank account details and a bank certificate (where the business has an account) stating the period for which the business has an account with the bank.