Importer-Exporter Code (IEC): Who Needs It, Yearly Update and Deactivation
No IEC, no import or export. Here is what the Foreign Trade Policy says about it, and the yearly step people forget.
- An IEC is a 10-character number, mandatory for export or import activity unless you are specifically exempted (Para 2.05).
- It is the same as your PAN, and DGFT issues it on an online application.
- Update your details every year in April to June, even if nothing has changed, or the IEC can be deactivated.
What is an IEC?
The Importer-Exporter Code is a 10-character alphanumeric number allotted to a firm, company, LLP or other entity. The Foreign Trade Policy 2023 (Para 2.05) says it is mandatory for undertaking any export or import activity.
Who needs one?
Anyone who exports or imports goods, unless a specific exemption applies. For exports of services or technology, you must hold the IEC on the date the services are rendered, to claim benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.
Who is exempt?
The Policy points to Para 2.07 of the Handbook of Procedures for the exempt categories and their permanent IECs. Read that paragraph on dgft.gov.in, or ask us if you think you fall in it.
How is it linked to PAN?
Following GST, the IEC is the same as the entity's PAN. DGFT issues it separately, on an online application.
What must I do every year?
Update your IEC details electronically in the April to June period. If nothing has changed, you still have to confirm that online.
What happens if I miss the update?
The IEC is deactivated if it is not updated in the prescribed period, and it can be reactivated after a successful update. DGFT can also flag an IEC for scrutiny, and if the flagged risks are not addressed in time, it is deactivated.
Does the Policy name a penalty for trading without an IEC?
Para 2.05 sets the requirement and the deactivation consequences. It does not name a separate penalty there. The consequences it describes are deactivation and scrutiny.
Where do I check the procedure?
The step-by-step procedure is in Chapter 2 of the Handbook of Procedures, and applications are online on the DGFT portal. Our post on the Foreign Trade Policy in force lists where the current text sits.
Can you help me get or update my IEC?
Yes. Send us your PAN details and your business type, and we will tell you what to file and what to keep ready. We are just a call and a message away.
- DGFT: Foreign Trade Policy 2023, Chapter 2 (General Provisions Regarding Imports and Exports)
- DGFT: Foreign Trade Policy and Handbook of Procedures
Every fact here is taken from Government of India sources, as we read them on 12 November 2026. Please confirm against the original notification for your own shipment before you act. Rules change, and the right answer depends on your product, origin and destination.
Not sure how this applies to your shipment? Send us the product and the route. A call or a message is all it takes, and we are with you at every step of the way, whether you are importing or exporting.
Office (backup): +91 93733 11838
Multimodal Logistic Systems Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India. Written by Shankar Jha. We are consultants, not a law firm. This post is general information.