Complete Process of SAFTA Registration in India

What is SAFTA?

The South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) is a free trade agreement among the member countries of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), which includes:

- India

- Pakistan

- Bangladesh

- Sri Lanka

- Nepal

- Bhutan

- Maldives

- Afghanistan

SAFTA aims to promote trade liberalization by reducing tariffs and eliminating trade barriers among member nations.

Benefits of SAFTA Registration

✅ Reduced Customs Duties – Lower tariffs on eligible goods traded between SAFTA countries.

✅ Increased Market Access – Easier export opportunities in SAARC nations.

✅ Competitive Advantage – Preferential treatment over non-SAARC imports.

✅ Economic Growth – Enhanced trade relations within South Asia.

Eligibility for SAFTA Benefits

To avail SAFTA benefits, your goods must:

✔ Originate from a SAFTA member country (meet Rules of Origin criteria).

✔ Be included in the Sensitive Lists (some products are excluded).

✔ Be accompanied by a SAFTA Certificate of Origin.

Step-by-Step Process for SAFTA Registration in India

Step 1: Obtain an Import-Export Code (IEC)

- Apply for an IEC (Import Export Code) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

- Required Documents:

- PAN Card

- Aadhaar Card

- Bank Certificate

- Passport-sized photograph

- Apply online via [DGFT IEC Portal](https://dgft.gov.in).

Step 2: Check Product Eligibility

- Verify if your product qualifies for SAFTA benefits by checking the SAFTA Tariff Concession List and Sensitive Lists on the [Ministry of Commerce](https://commerce.gov.in) website.

Step 3: Apply for SAFTA Certificate of Origin

- The SAFTA Certificate of Origin (Form SAFTA) must be issued by an approved authority (usually a Chamber of Commerce or DGFT-approved agency).

- Documents Required:

- Commercial Invoice

- Packing List

- Bill of Lading/Airway Bill

- Manufacturer’s Declaration (if applicable)

- Proof of Origin (such as raw material sourcing details)

Step 4: Submit Application to Approved Agency

- Submit the application along with supporting documents to:

- Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO)

- Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

- DGFT Regional Office

- Pay the applicable processing fee.

Step 5: Customs Clearance with SAFTA Certificate

- Present the SAFTA Certificate of Origin to customs during import/export.

- Customs will verify and apply preferential tariff rates.

Processing Time & Fees

- Time: 3-7 working days (depending on authority).

- Fees: Varies (typically ₹500 - ₹2,000 per certificate).

Important Notes

⚠️ SAFTA benefits apply only to goods, not services.

⚠️ Some products (like agricultural items) may be on the Sensitive List and excluded.

⚠️ Rules of Origin must be strictly followed (minimum 40-60% local value addition).