If you’re planning to start or grow an import-export business in India, one of the first and most essential steps is obtaining an Import Export Code (IEC). Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), the IEC is mandatory for all individuals and businesses engaged in cross-border trade.
In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about IEC offices in India, their structure, services, and how to connect with them.
What Is the IEC?
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit number issued by the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. It’s required for:
- Importing goods into India
- Exporting goods or services from India
- Availing benefits under foreign trade policies
The application for IEC is now completely online, but DGFT Regional Authorities (RA) across India still play a crucial role in handling queries, approvals, and updates.
DGFT: The Authority Behind IEC
The DGFT is the key agency that manages India’s foreign trade policy and implements it through a network of Regional Offices (RA offices).
These offices are responsible for:
- Issuing IECs
- Updating or modifying IEC details
- Granting Authorised Dealer Codes (AD Codes)
- Processing export promotion schemes like MEIS, RoDTEP, SEIS
- Providing guidance to importers and exporters
Structure of IEC/DGFT Offices in India
The DGFT operates through:
- Headquarters in New Delhi
- Zonal Offices in metro cities
- Regional Authorities (RAs) in major trade centers
- District-level Export Promotion Cells (in coordination with state governments)
Major DGFT Regional Offices (IEC Issuing Authorities)
| City | Office Type | Office Name/Code |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | Zonal & Regional RA | RA Delhi (North Zone) |
| Mumbai | Zonal & Regional RA | RA Mumbai (West Zone) |
| Kolkata | Zonal & Regional RA | RA Kolkata (East Zone) |
| Chennai | Zonal & Regional RA | RA Chennai (South Zone) |
| Bengaluru | Regional RA | RA Bangalore |
| Ahmedabad | Regional RA | RA Ahmedabad |
| Hyderabad | Regional RA | RA Hyderabad |
| Jaipur | Regional RA | RA Jaipur |
| Ludhiana | Regional RA | RA Ludhiana |
| Coimbatore | Branch RA | RA Coimbatore |
| Visakhapatnam | Regional RA | RA Visakhapatnam |
There are more than 35 DGFT offices across India. Each regional authority is responsible for a designated jurisdiction (based on PIN codes or districts).
Services Offered by IEC/DGFT Offices
- IEC Registration and modifications
- Issuance of Advance Authorization and EPCG licenses
- RCMC (Registration Cum Membership Certificate) verification
- Export scheme application processing (RoDTEP, RoSCTL, etc.)
- e-BRC monitoring and export incentive tracking
- Grievance redressal and trade facilitation
How to Contact Your Nearest IEC Office
Visit the DGFT official website to find the contact details and jurisdiction of your local office:
Website: https://dgft.gov.in
Go to:
Home → About DGFT → Regional Authorities → View All Offices
You can find:
- Office address
- Jurisdiction (district/state wise)
- Officer names and designations
- Phone numbers and emails
- Office timings and public grievance redress hours
IEC Helpline and Support
| Type of Support | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| DGFT Helpdesk (Toll-Free) | 1800-111-550 |
| Email Support | dgftedi@gov.in |
| @dgftindia | |
| ICEGATE (Customs Support) | icegatehelpdesk@icegate.gov.in |
For IEC updates, technical issues, or lost certificates, most requests can now be handled via the DGFT online portal using a valid Digital Signature (DSC) or Aadhaar e-sign.
Tips for New Exporters and Importers
- Apply for IEC online via https://dgft.gov.in — the process is paperless
- Link your IEC with PAN and GST for smooth customs clearance
- Reach out to your regional DGFT office for scheme benefits or technical queries
- Use e-Sanchit and ICEGATE for document submission and customs integration
Conclusion
IEC offices in India, through the DGFT network, form the administrative backbone of India’s foreign trade policy. Whether you are a first-time exporter or a seasoned importer, knowing how to navigate your local DGFT office can help you access incentives, stay compliant, and grow internationally.
For anything related to international trade, your Regional Authority of DGFT is your first point of contact.
