Cashew Export Promotion Council

The registration process for the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI) in 2025 is simple but must be done correctly. An applicant must choose the membership type, prepare the required documents, submit the application to CEPCI, pay the fees, and then receive the membership certificate. Once registered, the member can officially take part in the cashew export business under the council’s rules.

It is the entity of the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI). It works under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It was established as set to encourage exportation of cashew kernel and cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) in India. The council also facilitates on research, quality verification, market crop and also quite stakeholders in the cashew industry.

CEPCI with its head office based in Kollam, Kerala, which is the seat of Indian cashew trade, has emerged as the key organization involving Indian exporters and foreign buyers. It provides its members with membership certificate, it sets trade fairs, it aids in brand promotion, and it provides exporters with policies of quality and packaging standards that are needed on foreign markets.

Membership certificate granted by CEPCI does not only represent an official document. It is evidence that the owner has qualified the eligibility terms, abides in the abnormalities associated with exports, and is accepted by the authorities as a credible member of the casheww exports industry.

CEPCI offers different membership types depending on the applicant’s role in the cashew industry. This ensures that both new entrants and established businesses can participate under the right category.

Ordinary Membership

This is the main category for exporters. To qualify the applicant must be actively involved in exporting cashew products. The council may ask for proof of past exports, import-export code (IEC) and other documents to verify eligibility

Associate Membership

This category is for people or companies indirectly linked to the industry. It is common for suppliers of raw cashews, equipment makers, or domestic traders to apply. They get access to CEPCI’s market intelligence and industry updates but do not have direct export privileges through CEPCI.

By having these two categories, CEPCI ensures fair participation while maintaining quality control over export activities.

There are advantages of becoming a CEPCI member. These benefits help exporters grow their business. It also help them comply with international standards

Recognition by Government of India

The CEPCI membership certificate is issued under the authority of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This recognition builds trust with overseas buyers. It assures them of the exporter’s credibility

Access to Global Trade Opportunities

Members are invited to participate in trade fairs, exhibitions and buyer-seller meets organized in India and abroad. CEPCI also facilitates participation in international cashew events which helps exporters expand their network

Market Intelligence and Research Support

The council regularly publishes updates about global market trends and conditions. Members can use this information to plan their export strategies. They can manage pricing more effectively

Quality and Packaging Support

CEPCI provides guidelines for processing, grading, and packaging cashews to meet foreign market standards. Members can also access training programs to improve product quality

Financial Assistance Schemes

Eligible members can get financial aid for branding, packaging improvements, quality testing and participation in trade events

Dispute Resolution Assistance

The council helps resolve disputes between exporters and buyers especially in matters related to quality or shipment delays

CEPCI has clear eligibility rules to ensure that only genuine participants join the council. These rules vary depending on the type of membership

For Ordinary Membership

• You must be an Indian company, partnership firm, proprietorship or other recognized legal entity
• Must have a valid Import Export Code (IEC). It is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
• You must be engaged in the export of cashew kernels or CNSL
• Must follow the standards and guidelines set by CEPCI

For Associate Membership

• Must be an individual or entity associated with the cashew industry in India.
• Need not have an IEC if not engaged in exports.
• Can be involved in supplying raw cashews, manufacturing machinery, or providing services related to the industry.

Additional Conditions

• The applicant must not have been convicted for any customs or export-related violations
• Membership is granted at the discretion of CEPCI. They give it after reviewing the application and documents

These eligibility rules make sure CEPCI maintains the quality and credibility of its member base

Applying for CEPCI membership requires specific documents to verify the applicant’s identity and compliance with trade norms. The council uses these records to ensure that only genuine stakeholders enter the membership network

Document	Purpose
Import Export Code (IEC) Certificate	Confirms eligibility for engaging in exports.
GST Registration Certificate	Verifies tax compliance and business registration.
PAN Card of the Applicant or Entity	Confirms identity for financial and legal purposes.
Proof of Business Address	Confirms the location of operations. This include (electricity bill, lease agreement etc.)
Incorporation/Partnership Documents	Establishes the legal status of the applicant’s business.
Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque	Validates the active bank account for export transactions.
Past Export Proof (for Ordinary Membership)	Confirms active involvement in cashew exports.
Passport-size Photographs	Used for membership records and identification.

Key Points

• All documents must be valid and up to date.
• CEPCI may request additional documents depending on the case.
• Soft copies and hard copies are both required during submission.

These requirements ensure that CEPCI members are credible and compliant with both national and international trade laws.

The CEPCI membership registration process follows a structured sequence. Completing each step carefully will make approval faster. It help you avoid unnecessary delays

Step 1: Choose Membership Type

Decide between Ordinary or Associate membership based on your business activity. This choice will determine the documents and fees required

Step 2: Collect Required Documents

Gather all necessary documents as per the eligibility criteria and membership type. Copies must be clear and certified 

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Obtain the official CEPCI membership application form from their office or website. Fill it out with accurate details errors or mismatches can lead to rejection

Step 4: Submit Application and Pay Fees

Submit the form in addition to your supporting documents. These are submitted to the CEPCI office in Kollam Kerala. Include the prescribed membership fee payment via demand draft or online transfer

Step 5: Application Review by CEPCI

The council’s verification team will check the application. They will verify documents and confirm eligibility. They might also contact the applicant 

Step 6: Issuance of Membership Certificate

Once approved CEPCI issues the membership certificate. This certificate officially recognizes the applicant as a member and allows them to enjoy the council’s benefits

CEPCI charges a membership fee that varies according to the type of membership. The fee is collected annually and must be paid in full during registration.

Membership Type	Registration Fee	Annual Subscription
Ordinary Membership	₹10,000	₹5,000
Associate Membership	₹5,000	₹3,000

Important Notes:

• Fees are subject to change as per CEPCI’s annual review.
• Payments can be made via bank transfer, demand draft, or any other method approved by the council.
• Late renewal may attract a penalty or suspension of membership benefits.

The CEPCI membership certificate is valid for one financial year from the date of issuance. You must renew to enjoy membership benefits

Renewal Process:

1. Submit a renewal application before the expiry date
2. Pay the annual subscription fee along with any applicable late charges
3. Update any changes in business details or contact information

Members who fail to renew on time risk losing their benefits, including participation in trade fairs and access to CEPCI market intelligence. In such cases, reapplication may be required, which involves going through the full process again.

After obtaining membership members must follow certain compliance rules. It help them maintain their active status:

• Timely Renewal: Membership must be renewed before expiry
• Adherence to Quality Standards: Members must comply with CEPCI guidelines for quality, grading and packaging of cashew products
• Participation in CEPCI Programs: Members are encouraged to join training, exhibitions and trade promotion events
• Export Reporting: Ordinary members must report export data when requested by CEPCI for statistical purposes
• Fee Payment: All dues must be paid promptly to avoid penalties

Non-compliance can cause suspension or membership cancellation 

Navigating the CEPCI membership process can be time-consuming. Especially for new exporters. Agile Regulatory offers expert assistance 

Why Choose Agile Regulatory?

• End-to-End Support: You get complete support from document preparation to final certificate issuance
• Error-Free Filing: Our team ensures applications are accurate
• Time-Saving: We help avoid common mistakes
• Post-Registration Guidance: We helps maintain compliance to prevent suspension

With Agile Regulatory applicants can focus on their export business while professionals handle the complex paperwork and communication with CEPCI