**Executive Summary:**
This Public Notice introduces a new electronic format (eIEC) for issuing Importer Exporter Codes (IEC) via online applications, as outlined in Appendix 18B1 of the Handbook of Procedure. It clarifies that the existing physical format (Appendix 18B) will continue for manual applications. The decision to grant or refuse eIEC will be communicated via SMS and email to the applicant. This notice took effect on February 10, 2015.
**Key Points / Main Content:**
* **New eIEC Format:**
* A new electronic format (eIEC) for issuing IEC numbers based on online applications is introduced as Appendix 18B1.
* The eIEC will be sent to the applicant via email.
* **Existing IEC Format:**
* The current physical format (Appendix 18B) remains valid for IEC numbers issued based on manual applications.
* **Application Process:**
* Regional Authorities of DGFT will process online IEC applications.
* Applicants will receive notifications of IEC grant or refusal via SMS on their registered mobile number.
* A system-generated letter with the decision and reasons for rejection, if applicable, will be sent to the applicant's registered email address.
* **eIEC Verification:**
* The authenticity of the computer-generated eIEC can be verified on the DGFT website by entering the eIEC number and at least three letters of the eIEC holder's name.
* **Changes to eIEC Details:**
* If there are any changes to the eIEC holder's name, address, or constitution, the holder has 90 days to update the eIEC with the concerned licensing authority. Failure to do so will result in the eIEC holder being ineligible to import or export.
**Impact Analysis:**
* **Applicants for New IEC:**
* *Impact:* Applicants for new IEC numbers will now need to apply online to receive the eIEC in the new electronic format.
* *Action Required:* Submit IEC applications online and ensure a valid mobile number and email address are provided for communication.
* **Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT):**
* *Impact:* The DGFT and its Regional Authorities must implement the new eIEC issuance process and update their systems accordingly.
* *Action Required:* Update processing procedures and systems to handle online applications and electronic issuance of eIECs.
* **Existing IEC Holders:**
* *Impact:* Existing IEC holders who need to make changes to their IEC details must ensure these are updated within 90 days to maintain eligibility for import/export activities.
* *Action Required:* Monitor for any changes in name, address, or constitution and update the IEC details with the concerned licensing authority within the stipulated timeframe.
Key Entities Referenced
Foreign Trade Policy 2009-2014: A policy document that is being referenced and amended in the current notification.
Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT): The organization responsible for foreign trade regulation and policy in India. It is issuing the public notice.
Handbook of Procedure Vol. I Appendices and Aayat Niryat Forms, 2009-2014: A procedural handbook related to import and export forms, which is being updated.
eIEC (Electronic Importer Exporter Code): A digitally issued importer-exporter code, which is the subject of the new format introduction.
Appendix 18B: The existing format for IEC numbers, which will continue for manual applications.
Appendix 18B1: The new format for eIEC numbers, to be issued electronically for online applications.
Ministry of Commerce and Industry: The government ministry overseeing the Directorate General of Foreign Trade.
New Delhi: The location of issuance of the public notice