Import Export Code for Amazon, Flipkart, and Online Sellers in Kerala

Kerala’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem has seen a surge in online sellers leveraging platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Shopify, and Etsy to reach customers worldwide. While many focus on domestic sales, global marketplaces such as Amazon Global Selling and Flipkart Export Hub now enable even small businesses in Kochi, Kozhikode, and Thrissur to ship products directly to overseas buyers. At the heart of every successful cross-border e-commerce venture lies one critical compliance requirement: the Import Export Code (IEC).

This blog explores why IEC is essential for Kerala’s online merchants, how to obtain it quickly, and how OurTaxPartner.com makes the process seamless.

What Is an IEC and Why Do E-Commerce Sellers Need It?

The Import Export Code is a 10-digit registration number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Traditionally associated with bulk exporters, the IEC is now equally critical for online sellers because:

Customs Clearance: Shipments leaving India require an IEC to generate shipping bills and clear customs.
Payment Gateways and Banks: Banks demand IEC for processing foreign currency remittances from Amazon or Flipkart’s international wings.
Marketplace Onboarding: Amazon Global and Flipkart Export Hub mandate IEC validation before sellers can list products for overseas sales.
Export Incentives: IEC is a prerequisite for claiming schemes such as RoDTEP, which refunds embedded taxes on exports.

Who in Kerala Should Obtain an IEC?

Handicraft artisans from Kottayam selling on Etsy or Amazon Handmade
Spices, tea, or Ayurveda product vendors shipping abroad via Amazon FBA
Coir and eco-friendly product startups in Alappuzha
Fashion and apparel boutiques in Thiruvananthapuram targeting NRI customers
Electronics resellers on Flipkart planning cross-border fulfillment

Step-by-Step IEC Registration Process (100% Online)

Create a DGFT Login: Register with your PAN on the DGFT portal (dgft.gov.in).
Fill Form ANF-2A: Provide business and bank details. Ensure your PAN and business name exactly match GST records.
Upload Documents: PAN card, Aadhaar/passport, address proof (utility bill or rent agreement), and a cancelled cheque or bank certificate.
Pay Government Fee: The IEC application fee is currently ₹500, payable online via net banking or UPI.
Aadhaar OTP e-Sign: Complete e-verification with your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
Download IEC: Receive your IEC certificate by email within 24–72 hours, ready for marketplace onboarding.

Need a faster turnaround? OurTaxPartner.com offers same-day IEC filing and end-to-end support—from document preparation to certificate download.

Linking IEC with Amazon, Flipkart, and Payment Gateways

After obtaining your IEC:

Amazon Global Seller Central: Enter IEC and upload the PDF certificate in the “Tax Information” section.
Flipkart Export Hub: Provide IEC details and GSTIN to unlock global listing capabilities.
PayPal/Razorpay X: Banks may request IEC for FIRC (Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate) generation.

Common Challenges Faced by Kerala Sellers

PAN–GST Mismatch: Minor spelling differences can cause IEC rejection.
Incorrect Business Entity Type: Proprietors mistakenly register as companies, delaying approval.
Bank Details Errors: IFSC or account name inconsistencies hinder DGFT validation.

OurTaxPartner’s experts pre-verify all information to avoid such setbacks.

Maintaining and Updating Your IEC

DGFT now requires annual confirmation of IEC details—even if unchanged. Additionally, any modification (address, director, bank) must be updated within 30 days. Non-compliance may lead to IEC deactivation, which stalls export shipments.

Why Choose OurTaxPartner.com?

Kerala-Focused Expertise: Deep understanding of local entrepreneurs, from Kochi spice traders to Kozhikode garment sellers.
Quick Turnaround: IEC issued in 1–3 working days.
Marketplace Alignment: Guidance on integrating IEC with Amazon, Flipkart, Etsy, and Shopify.
Post-Registration Support: Annual IEC validation, modifications, and export incentive filings.

Conclusion

For Kerala’s Amazon, Flipkart, and other online sellers, the Import Export Code is the gateway to global customers and lucrative foreign revenue. Whether you’re shipping handcrafted coconut-shell bowls or premium Malabar spices, IEC registration is both mandatory and beneficial—unlocking customs clearance, remittance ease, and incentive eligibility.

Ready to go global? Apply for your IEC through OurTaxPartner.com and start exporting with confidence.

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