The Import Export Code (IEC) is a unique 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in India. This code is mandatory for any business or individual involved in import or export activities in India. It acts as a prerequisite for conducting international trade and helps regulate cross-border commerce. Verifying the IEC is crucial to ensure that the code is legitimate, active, and registered with the correct details. In this blog, we will explore the process of verifying the IEC online in a detailed, step-by-step manner.
Importance of IEC Verification
Before diving into the steps to verify the IEC online, let’s first understand why this verification is important:
Business Credibility: Verifying an IEC ensures that the company is authorized to import and export goods legally. It guarantees that the business has registered with the DGFT.
Avoid Fraudulent Practices: There are many instances of counterfeit IEC numbers used by fraudulent businesses. Verifying the code helps you avoid dealing with such entities, which could put your trade at risk.
Customs Clearance: The IEC is used by customs authorities to track international trade transactions. Verifying it ensures that your business can easily clear goods through customs.
Compliance with Laws: Verification of the IEC ensures that the entity you are dealing with is compliant with Indian foreign trade regulations, thereby reducing the risk of legal issues in cross-border transactions.
Steps to Verify IEC Online
Now that we understand the significance of IEC, let’s look at the step-by-step guide on how to verify it online.
Step 1: Visit the DGFT Official Website
The first step is to visit the official website of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) at https://www.dgft.gov.in. This is the primary platform for all matters related to the IEC and foreign trade in India.
Step 2: Navigate to the IEC Verification Page
Once you’re on the DGFT website, locate the "IEC" section on the homepage. You can find it under the "Services" or "Trade/Import Export Code" menu. Look for the link or option that says “IEC Code Verification” or “Verify IEC Code.”
Step 3: Enter the IEC Code
On the IEC verification page, you will be prompted to enter the 10-digit IEC number that you wish to verify. Make sure to input the code accurately, as even a small mistake could lead to incorrect results.
Step 4: Captcha Verification
To ensure that the verification process is being carried out by a human and not a bot, you will likely need to complete a Captcha verification. This is a simple security feature that requires you to solve a challenge (e.g., selecting specific images or entering a code shown in a box).
Step 5: Click "Submit" or "Verify"
After filling in the necessary details and completing the Captcha, click on the "Submit" or "Verify" button to proceed.
Step 6: Review the Results
Once the verification is complete, the system will display the results. If the IEC number is valid, it will show the following information:
IEC Number: The 10-digit code itself
Company Name: The name of the business or individual registered under the IEC.
Status: Whether the IEC is active or inactive.
Address: The registered address of the business.
PAN: The Permanent Account Number associated with the IEC.
If the IEC number is not valid, the system will display an error message indicating that the code does not exist or is inactive.
Step 7: Download or Save the Report
Once you have verified the IEC, it’s a good practice to save or take a screenshot of the verification result for future reference. This document can be useful when you need proof of verification or when you are making business decisions based on the validity of an IEC code.
Additional Tips for IEC Verification
Ensure Accurate Information: Double-check the IEC number before entering it into the DGFT portal. A minor error could prevent you from obtaining accurate results.
Cross-check with the Business: If you are dealing with a third-party vendor or business, always verify their IEC before entering into any trade agreement. It helps ensure that they are legally authorized to engage in international trade.
Check for Updates: IECs are subject to change, and businesses must keep their details updated with the DGFT. If you notice any discrepancies during verification, contact the business to clarify.
Contact DGFT for Issues: If you encounter any problems with the verification process, or if the IEC appears to be incorrect or inactive, you can contact DGFT customer support for assistance.
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Conclusion
Verifying the IEC online is a straightforward process, but it is one that plays a vital role in international trade. By ensuring that the IEC is legitimate, active, and registered with accurate details, you safeguard your business against fraud, legal complications, and operational disruptions. Always take the time to verify IEC codes before entering into any international transactions, and you’ll ensure smooth and lawful trade operations.
