IEC FOR AMAZON, FLIPKART, AND ONLINE EXPORT PLATFORMS

IEC for Amazon, Flipkart, and Online Export Platforms

IEC for Amazon, Flipkart, and Online Export Platforms

Blog Article

In today’s digital age, selling products online has become one of the most popular ways to do business. Many individuals and companies now sell their products on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, eBay, Etsy, and other global websites. But when it comes to exporting products outside India through these platforms, there is one important legal requirement you must know about — the Import Export Code (IEC).

In this article, we will explain what an IEC online registration is, why it is needed, and how it helps people who want to sell products on Amazon, Flipkart, and other online export platforms.

What is an Import Export Code (IEC)?


The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It is mandatory for anyone who wants to import goods into India or export goods from India.

Think of the IEC as a copyright for your business when it comes to international trade. Without this code, you cannot legally export or import goods and services.

Who Needs an IEC?


You need an IEC if:

  • You are an individual selling goods or services internationally


  • You own a company that exports or imports products


  • You are a manufacturer who wants to sell overseas


  • You are selling on online marketplaces like Amazon Global, Flipkart Global, eBay, Etsy, Alibaba, etc.


Why is IEC Important for Amazon, Flipkart, and Other Online Platforms?


Let’s take a closer look at why having an IEC is important when selling on online platforms:

1. Required for Export Activities


If you want to sell your products to customers in other countries using Amazon Global, Flipkart Global, or other export platforms, the government treats it as an export activity. To export legally, you must have an IEC.

2. Payment Gateway and Bank Requirements


When you receive payments in foreign currency from buyers in other countries, your bank needs to record the transaction under your IEC. Without an IEC, they may not allow or process foreign remittances for business.

3. Customs Clearance


If you are shipping physical products abroad, customs officials will ask for your IEC during the export clearance process. Without it, your goods may not be allowed to leave the country.

4. GST and Refund Claims


If you are a registered GST payer, you can claim tax benefits and GST refunds on exported goods or services. But for this, your IEC number must be linked to your GST profile.

5. Business Identity and Credibility


Having an IEC gives your business legal identity in global markets. It increases your credibility on international platforms and allows you to access various government schemes for exporters.

How to Use IEC for Selling on Amazon and Flipkart


Let’s understand how the IEC works in the case of major platforms:

Amazon Global Selling


Amazon Global allows Indian sellers to list and sell products in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, etc. To start, you need:

  • An active Amazon seller account


  • A PAN card


  • A bank account that accepts foreign payments


  • Import Export Code (IEC)



Amazon may also help you with shipping and logistics through Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), but customs and documentation still require your IEC. You must upload the IEC while registering your Amazon Global Seller account.

Flipkart Global


Flipkart Global also allows Indian sellers to sell in countries outside India. They support sellers in listing products, managing orders, and even handling shipping in some cases. But, like Amazon, they require:

  • PAN card


  • Bank account


  • Business documents


  • Import Export Code



IEC is a must-have to get your Flipkart Global seller account activated and ready for export.

Other Platforms That Need IEC


Many popular online platforms for international selling require an IEC:

  • eBay India – For listing products globally


  • Etsy – For selling handmade or custom goods to customers worldwide


  • Alibaba and AliExpress – B2B and B2C trade platforms


  • Shopify and WooCommerce – If your website sells to international customers



Whether you are using their inbuilt payment gateway or integrating your own, foreign payment handling will need your IEC linked with your business and bank.

Documents Required to Apply for IEC


Getting an IEC is a simple online process. Here are the documents you will need:

  1. PAN Card – Of the business or the individual


  2. Address Proof – Electricity bill, lease agreement, or other valid documents


  3. Cancelled Cheque – From the business bank account


  4. Digital Photograph – copyright-size photo of the applicant


  5. Email ID and Mobile Number


  6. Bank Account Details


Steps to Apply for IEC Online


Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for an IEC through the DGFT portal:

  1. Visit the IEC Portal – Open the official IEC registration website on your browser.

  2. Fill in the Application Form – Enter your business name, type, PAN number, and other required details carefully.

  3. Submit the Application – Review all the details to ensure accuracy before submitting the form.

  4. Pay the Registration Fee – Make the payment online using net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI.

  5. OTP Verification – Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number or email for authentication.

  6. Processing & Approval – The concerned authority will verify your details and process the application.

  7. Receive Your IEC Code – Once approved, the IEC code will be sent to your registered email within 1-2 business days.


Benefits of Having an IEC


Now that you know how to apply for IEC, let’s talk about its key benefits:

  1. Legal Right to Export: With an IEC, you are officially authorized to export products or services from India.

  2. Business Expansion: You can expand your market globally and reach millions of buyers on platforms like Amazon Global and eBay.

  3. Government Schemes and Incentives: IEC holders are eligible for various export promotion schemes like MEIS, SEIS, and RoDTEP.

  4. No Need for Renewal: IEC is valid for a lifetime. Once issued, you do not need to renew it unless your business information changes.

  5. Easy Bank Transactions: Foreign currency received from global platforms is easily credited to your account when you have a valid IEC.


Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using IEC



  1. Using the Wrong PAN Number: Always ensure you apply with the correct PAN (individual or business).


  2. Incorrect Bank Details: Wrong bank information can lead to payment delays.


  3. Not Linking IEC with GST: If you want to claim refunds, link your IEC with your GST number.


  4. Failure to Update Changes: If your business name or address changes, update your IEC with DGFT.


  5. Selling Without IEC: Some sellers skip IEC, thinking it’s optional. This can lead to payment blocks, penalties, or customs issues.


Note:  Update IEC code in easy steps with Our Portal

Conclusion


The Import Export Code (IEC) is not just a number. It is your gateway to global business. Whether you are selling handmade products on Etsy, electronics on Amazon, or fashion accessories on Flipkart Global — IEC is your official license to export legally and receive international payments.

With the rising demand for Indian products in global markets, now is the perfect time to go international. Applying for IEC is easy, low-cost, and comes with many long-term benefits. If you are serious about building an online export business, make sure you get your IEC today.

 

Report this page