—IEC
Importing and Exporting From Puducherry: DGFT, Ports, Air Cargo and ICDs
Practical points for importers and exporters in Puducherry: the DGFT office, ports and air cargo, inland container depots, and key export sectors.
Puducherry exports engineering goods, textiles, chemicals and processed foods. Importers and exporters here use the same national systems as everywhere else, with a few local points worth knowing. This guide covers them.
The IEC and DGFT
The IEC is applied for online on the DGFT portal, so there's no need to visit an office. The DGFT has a regional office in Puducherry, which handles matters under the Foreign Trade Policy for the region, such as certain authorisations and schemes.
Sea Freight
Sea freight usually moves through Chennai's ports, and Karaikal port handles some bulk and other cargo. Exporters register their AD code at each port or inland container depot they ship through.
Air Cargo
Air cargo usually moves through Chennai airport. Exporters shipping by air register their AD code with customs at the airport.
Key Sectors
- Engineering goods: exporters usually register with EEPC, and some items need export licences under the SCOMET list.
- Textiles and garments: exporters register with the relevant export promotion council, such as AEPC for apparel, and buyers often ask for compliance audits.
- Chemicals: some chemicals are on the SCOMET list or need special handling, and imports may need BIS or other approvals.
Most exporters also register with the relevant export promotion council or commodity board for a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), which is needed for many Foreign Trade Policy benefits.
GST for Exporters in Puducherry
File a GST LUT each year to export without IGST, and claim refunds of unused credit. Refunds are processed by the jurisdictional officer — from the GST administration for Puducherry or central GST.
A Checklist for Traders in Puducherry
- Get an IEC and complete the annual update every April to June.
- Register your AD code at the airport, ICD or ports you use.
- File a GST LUT each year.
- Check sector-specific export requirements and register with the right export promotion council.
- Track realisation of export proceeds.
Getting Help
Think Filing helps businesses in Puducherry start importing and exporting, from IEC to GST refunds.