Free Sale Certificate (FSC)
Essential documentation for exporters to certify that products are freely sold in the domestic market and comply with local regulations.
Understanding Free Sale Certificates
What is a Free Sale Certificate?
A Free Sale and Commerce Certificate (FSC) is an official document issued for export of items that are not restricted or prohibited for export. It confirms that the products listed on the certificate are freely sold in the country of origin.
The certificate provides assurance from a government agency that the products are legally manufactured and marketed in the exporting country, without any indication that the product is evaluated for safety and efficacy.
FSCs are often required by foreign governments or buyers to verify that the products being imported comply with the exporting country's regulations and are freely available in the domestic market.
Key Information
Full Name
Free Sale and Commerce Certificate
Purpose
Provides assurance that products are freely sold and manufactured in the exporting country
Validity
Valid for a period of 2 years from the date of issuance
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible Export Items
- Items not covered under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, which have usage in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics for medical and surgical purposes and are not prohibited for export
- Any item that is not restricted or prohibited for export
- Products that are legally manufactured and marketed in the domestic market
- Products that comply with domestic manufacturing standards and regulations
Who Can Apply
- Manufacturer exporters who produce goods for export
- Merchant exporters who source products from manufacturers for export
- Entities with valid Import-Export Code (IEC)
- Exporters registered with relevant export promotion councils
Application Process
Prepare Application
Submit Online
Receive Certificate
How to Apply
- Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents including IEC, manufacturing license, and product details.
- Online Application: File online application in ANF-2H form for obtainment of Free Sale and Commerce Certificate through the DGFT portal.
- Digital Signature: Sign the application using a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).
- Submit Application: Submit the completed application along with all required documents.
- Processing: DGFT Regional Authority (RA) will process the application and issue the Free Sale and Commerce Certificate as per Annexure B of ANF 2H.
- Certificate Issuance: Upon approval, the certificate will be issued with a validity of 2 years.
Required Documents
- Valid Import-Export Code (IEC)
- Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) from relevant Export Promotion Council
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- Manufacturing License (if applicable)
- Product details including specifications and HS codes
- Proof of domestic sales (invoices, bills, etc.)
- Declaration that products are freely sold in domestic market
Financial Implications
Government Fees
- IEC Registration
- RCMC Registration
- Application Processing Fee
Technical Requirements
- Digital Signature Certificate
- Manufacturing License
- Product Testing (if required)
Additional Costs
- Consultancy Services
- Document Preparation
- Translation (if required)
Note: The Free Sale Certificate is typically obtained on the requirement of the buyer. The exporter arranges this certificate as part of the export documentation process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a Free Sale Certificate?
Is a Free Sale Certificate mandatory for all exports?
Can a merchant exporter obtain a Free Sale Certificate?
How long does it take to obtain a Free Sale Certificate?
Can a Free Sale Certificate be amended after issuance?
Does a Free Sale Certificate guarantee product quality?
Need Assistance with Free Sale Certificate?
Our expert consultants can guide you through the entire process of obtaining a Free Sale Certificate, ensuring compliance and facilitating your exports.