DGFT Retainership

What is DGFT Retainership?

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Continuous Engagement

Exporters engage a professional consultant on an ongoing basis to manage all DGFT-related work, including IEC matters, Advance Authorisation, EPCG, RoDTEP/RoSCTL benefits, and Status Holder Certificates.

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Fixed-Fee Structure

The arrangement provides regular advisory, compliance, and operational support through a fixed periodic fee rather than billing services on a case-by-case basis, offering cost predictability.

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Customized Contract

The scope, fees, and responsibilities are clearly defined through a private contract between the exporter and the consultant or consulting firm, tailored to your specific business needs.

Roles & Services Under Retainership

✓ Scheme Analysis & Planning

Analyzing eligibility and planning applications for DGFT schemes including AA, EPCG, DFIA, status holder, TRQ, and import licences for restricted items.

✓ Application Management

Preparing and filing online applications on the DGFT portal, monitoring query replies, handling amendments, and following up for issuance and redemption/EODC.

✓ Documentation Review

Reviewing export/import documents, advising on FTP/GST/customs alignment, and helping to respond to DGFT communications and trade notices.

When Should You Consider a DGFT Retainership?

A retainership is ideal for businesses that want to maximize their DGFT benefits while minimizing compliance risks and operational delays.

✓ Ideal For:

→ Companies frequently using DGFT schemes
→ Businesses with multiple licences to manage
→ Organizations lacking in-house FTP expertise
→ Regular exporters with complex scheme requirements

ⓘ Consider Alternatives:

→ Small exporters with occasional DGFT needs
→ One-time scheme applications
→ Businesses preferring case-by-case billing

These businesses may find assignment-wise fees more suitable than a fixed retainership.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DGFT retainership?

DGFT retainership is a continuous engagement of an external expert or firm to handle DGFT/foreign trade work for an exporter on a fixed periodic fee instead of per-case billing.

Is "DGFT retainership" an official DGFT scheme?

No, it is not a DGFT scheme; it is a private commercial arrangement between an exporter and a consultant or professional firm.

What work is usually covered under a DGFT retainership?

Typical work includes planning and filing applications for schemes like IEC, Advance Authorisation, EPCG, RoDTEP/RoSCTL, import licences, status holder certificates, and related amendments and closures.

Does the retainer also handle DGFT portal filings?

Yes, retainers commonly prepare documents, file online applications on the DGFT portal, track status, reply to queries, and assist in getting licences and EODC/redemption.

Why should an exporter opt for a DGFT retainership?

It ensures regular expert support, reduces the risk of mistakes or missed benefits, saves management time, and can be more economical for frequent DGFT users than case-wise fees.

Who needs a retainership more—small or large exporters?

Large or frequent exporters with multiple licences benefit most; occasional exporters may manage with assignment-based advisory.

Does DGFT itself appoint retainers for exporters?

No, DGFT does not provide private retainers to exporters; it only hires internal consultants/retired officers on contract for departmental work via vacancy circulars.