The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, continues its mission to simplify and enhance the processes involved in the export sector. On August 14, 2024, the DGFT issued Trade Notice No. 12/2024-25, introducing significant updates to the electronic Bank Realisation Certificate (eBRC) system. These updates mark a critical step forward in the automation and digital transformation of export operations, building on the foundation laid in November 2023 with the pilot launch of the eBRC self-certification process.
The Evolution of eBRC Self-Certification
The eBRC is an essential document in international trade, serving as proof that the exporter has received payment against their exported goods or services. Traditionally, obtaining and certifying this document involved considerable paperwork and time-consuming manual processes. In response, the DGFT initiated an online self-certification system, which allowed exporters to reconcile export realizations efficiently. This digital transition aimed to reduce the administrative burden on exporters and ensure a more streamlined operation.
In the pilot phase, the DGFT introduced an online platform where banks could automatically transmit Inward Remittance Messages (IRMs) for Trade Account transactions to the DGFT’s eBRC system. Exporters could then log in to the DGFT website, review these IRMs, and self-certify their eBRCs by matching them with the relevant invoice or Shipping Bill details.
Introducing Bulk Upload and API Integration
Recognizing the need for further efficiency, the DGFT has now rolled out two new features: Bulk Upload and API Integration, effective from August 20, 2024.
Bulk Upload Facility
The Bulk Upload functionality is a game-changer for exporters managing high volumes of transactions. This feature allows exporters to generate multiple eBRCs simultaneously by uploading a spreadsheet that contains all the necessary IRM mappings, along with corresponding Shipping Bill and Invoice details. By adhering to the prescribed rules and guidelines in the spreadsheet template, exporters can ensure that their data complies with the eBRC workflow requirements. This innovation is designed to minimize manual entry errors, significantly reduce processing time, and streamline the overall management of eBRC self-certification documentation.
API Integration for Seamless Automation
The Application Programming Interface (API) integration takes automation a step further by allowing exporters to directly link their Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Accounting, or other software systems with the DGFT eBRC system. This near real-time interface enables the retrieval of IRM/ORM data and facilitates the request and verification of eBRCs within exporters’ existing business systems. The API integration not only ensures a faster and more secure certification process but also offers controlled access through robust credential management.
To utilize the API integration, exporters must complete an online registration process, authenticate it through the IEC holder’s account, and manage the activation and deactivation of API consumer access.
