A new IEC for a startup, and a same-day reactivation for an exporter
How we registered a fresh IEC for an e-commerce startup and reactivated a textile exporter’s lapsed code, by knowing the annual update rule that quietly deactivates IECs.
The IEC, and the rule that catches people out
The Importer-Exporter Code is the 10-digit code from the DGFT that every importer and exporter needs. Since 2021 it is tied to your PAN and applied for online on the DGFT portal, e-signed with an Aadhaar OTP or a DSC. A new one is usually quick when the documents are right.
What catches established businesses out is what happens afterwards. Every IEC has to be updated and confirmed on the DGFT portal once a year, between April and June, even when nothing has changed. Miss that window and the IEC is deactivated. Most “my IEC has stopped working” emergencies are exactly this, not a mysterious new regulation, and the fix is to complete the update.
Two clients, two situations
1 New e-commerce startup, fresh IEC
- Challenge. A new e-commerce business needed an IEC to start importing from Europe for a launch campaign.
- What we did. Registered the new PAN-based IEC on the DGFT portal with the documents and e-signing in order, and pointed them to the next steps that actual clearance needs.
- Outcome. The IEC was issued in time to clear the first consignment and launch on schedule.
2 Established textile exporter, reactivation
- Challenge. The exporter’s IEC had been deactivated, with an urgent order waiting and penalties looming.
- What we did. Identified the cause, a missed annual update, and completed that update on the DGFT portal to bring the IEC back.
- Outcome. The IEC was reactivated the same day, and the consignment shipped without disruption.
What we check on every IEC
- New, update or reactivation. Most deactivated-IEC cases are a missed annual update, and the update itself is the fix.
- The annual window. Every IEC must be confirmed on the DGFT portal between April and June, even with no changes.
- PAN, bank and e-signing. The PAN-based details, bank account and Aadhaar or DSC e-signing all have to line up.
- What comes after the IEC. The code alone does not clear goods. AD Code and ICEGATE registration come next.
- Matching details. Name, address and bank details consistent with the PAN and the trade documents.
Import Export Code FAQs
What is an IEC?
The Importer-Exporter Code, a 10-digit code issued by the DGFT and tied to your PAN. Any business importing into or exporting from India needs one.
How long does a new IEC take?
Usually quick, often the same or next day, once the PAN-based details, bank information and Aadhaar or DSC e-signing are in order.
Why do IECs get deactivated?
Almost always a missed annual update. Every IEC must be confirmed on the DGFT portal between April and June each year, and an IEC that is not updated in that window is deactivated.
How do you reactivate a deactivated IEC?
By completing the pending annual update on the DGFT portal. Once the update goes through, the IEC typically reactivates the same day.
Is the IEC enough to import or export?
No. The IEC is the first step. To actually file and clear goods you also need AD Code registration and ICEGATE registration.
Need a new IEC, an update, or a reactivation?
Tell us your situation. We will register, update or reactivate your IEC, and set up the AD Code and ICEGATE that follow.
Get a free consultation See our IEC registration and IEC renewal services
