The International Cooperation Scheme was launched by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to support MSMEs in entering export markets. The scheme includes multiple sub-components, with Sub-Component II: Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters (CBFTE) currently active. It facilitates participation in international trade events and reimburses costs like RCMC, export insurance, and product certification. This aims to improve global competitiveness among first-time MSE exporters.
Scheme Key Highlights (Short Summary)
• Financial support to first-time MSE exporters
• Reimbursement for RCMC registration with EPCs
• Reimbursement of export insurance premium under ECGC
• Reimbursement of testing and certification costs
• Udyam registration required
• IEC code must not be older than 3 years
• Online application via https://ic.msme.gov.in
Benefits
• RCMC Fee Reimbursement: 75% or up to ₹20,000 (whichever is lower)
• Export Insurance Premium: Reimbursement up to ₹10,000 per year
• Testing & Certification Fee: 75% or up to ₹1,00,000 per financial year (max 3 certificates)
• Benefits provided only for certifications and exports done in the same financial year
• Ministry to share beneficiary list quarterly with Department of Commerce
Eligibility Criteria
• Applicant must be a Micro or Small Enterprise (MSE)
• Valid Udyam Registration is mandatory
• IEC Code must be less than 3 years old at the time of export
• Only first-time exporters are eligible under this sub-component
Application Process
Online
• Visit https://ic.msme.gov.in
• Click “Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters”
• New users must register with organization details
• After login, access dashboard to submit application
• Submit required forms and supporting documents per component
• Financial assistance is routed via MoUs with EPCs, ECGC, and NSIC for disbursement
Documents Required
For RCMC (Annexure K):
• IEC (not older than 3 years)
• RCMC fee receipt
• Export proof from same financial year
For Export Insurance (Annexure L):
• IEC (not older than 3 years)
• Insurance premium receipt
• Export shipment proof for same FY
For Testing and Certification (Annexure M):
• IEC (not older than 3 years)
• Certificate and testing receipt
• Export shipment proof for certified product
• Proof that certification was mandatory
• Self-certification of no MAI benefits for same purpose (Annexure-N)
• All documents must be attested by applicant organization
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the “International Cooperation Scheme”?
It is a scheme to build export capacity among MSEs by reimbursing export-related expenses.
Q: Which department has launched this scheme?
The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India.
Q: What are the benefits provided under the scheme?
Reimbursement of RCMC fees, export insurance, and product certification costs.
Q: Who can apply under this scheme?
Micro and Small Enterprises with valid Udyam registration and a recent IEC.
Q: What is the criterion for Importer Exporter Code?
IEC must not be older than 3 years on the date of export shipment.
Q: What is the quantum of assistance for RCMC?
75% of fee or ₹20,000, whichever is lower.
Q: What is the quantum of assistance for Export Insurance Premium?
Up to ₹10,000 per financial year.
Q: How to apply under this scheme?
Via online portal https://ic.msme.gov.in by registering and uploading documents.
Q: How will the grant be released?
Through MoUs signed with EPCs, ECGC, and NSIC who submit claims on behalf of MSEs.
Sources and References
• Official Guidelines
• International Cooperation Scheme Portal
• MSME Ministry Website