Spice Board Registration (CRES)

Spice Board registration, officially known as the Certificate of Registration as Exporter of Spices (CRES), is a mandatory authorization issued by the Spices Board of India (under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry). It permits businesses to export any of the 52 scheduled spices (such as cardamom, pepper, cumin, and turmeric) and ensures that the products meet international quality and safety standards.

A CRES is legally required before a business can commence the export of spices from India. It is necessary in the following cases:

• Mandatory Export Compliance: Under the Spices Board Act 1986, no person or entity can carry on the business of exporting spices without a valid certificate.

• RCMC Equivalence: It serves as the Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) required under the Foreign Trade Policy to claim export incentives and benefits.

• Merchant & Manufacturer Exporters: Required for both Merchants (who buy and export) and Manufacturers (who process and export).

• Access to Incentives: To avail of government subsidies for technology upgradation, packing development, and participation in international trade fairs.

• Quality Assurance: Often demanded by international buyers to prove that the exporter is regulated by the Indian government.

Required Documents

• Import-Export Code (IEC): Self-attested copy of the IEC issued by DGFT.

• GST Registration: Copy of the GST certificate for the business.

• PAN Card: Copy of the Permanent Account Number of the entity.

• Confidential Bank Report: A report from your bank in the prescribed format (Annexure-II) regarding your financial standing.

• Business Constitution: Partnership Deed, MOA/AOA, or Certificate of Incorporation.

• FSSAI License: A valid food safety license (address must match the registration).

• For Manufacturers: MSME/Udyam Registration and a Consent to Operate from the Pollution Control Board (PCB).

• Passport Photo: Of the CEO or authorized signatory against a white background.