In order to prevent sensitive and dual-use commodities from ending up in the wrong hands, India's export environment is becoming more and more controlled. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) requires an SCOMET license if your company trades with strategic goods like chemicals, aircraft components, or sophisticated electronics.

SCOMET License Overview

The term SCOMET stands for Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies. These are controlled goods that have both civilian and military applications, often referred to as dual-use items.

In order to export items that are on the SCOMET list, businesses or individuals must have a DGFT-issued SCOMET license.

SCOMET License Means Compliance with Global Standards

The SCOMET licensing structure guarantees that exporters from India adhere to:

  • International treaties (e.g., Wassenaar Arrangement, MTCR, Australia Group)
  • National security interests
  • Non-proliferation obligations

Exporting SCOMET-listed goods without proper authorization is a punishable offense under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992.

SCOMET License Application Process

To guarantee seamless exports, you must adhere to the DGFT-defined structured SCOMET license procedure:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

  • Verify if your product is included in the SCOMET List found in the ITC (HS) Export Policy Chapter 5.
  • If yes, identify the correct SCOMET category and item code.

Step 2: Apply Online on the DGFT Portal

  • Log in to the DGFT Online Platform (https://dgft.gov.in).
  • Fill out the SCOMET license application under the Export Management System.
  • Select the correct Scheme Code for SCOMET License (2019).

Step 3: Attach Required Documents

  • End-user certificate (EUC)
  • Technical description of the item
  • Purchase order or contract
  • Export Control Classification Number (if applicable)

Step 4: Inter-Ministerial Review

The Ministry of Defense, MEA, and DRDO are among the representatives of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) that reviews the application.

Step 5: Grant or Rejection of License

  • If approved, DGFT will issue the SCOMET export authorization.
  • You can check your DGFT SCOMET license status on the portal.

SCOMET License Validity

  • SCOMET licenses are normally valid for 24 months after they are issued.
  • Licenses are non-transferable and valid only for the specific transaction, buyer, and destination country mentioned.

Who Needs a SCOMET License?

If you are exporting, you must have a SCOMET license:

  • Aerospace parts or drones
  • Dual-use chemicals or biochemicals
  • Nuclear or missile-related equipment
  • High-grade electronics, cryptography items, or satellite components

Whether you’re a manufacturer, exporter, or trader, compliance with SCOMET norms is mandatory for all.

SCOMET License: Scheme Code 2019

While filling out your application on the DGFT portal, you’ll be required to use the Scheme Code for SCOMET License (2019). This ensures that the system routes your application under the correct export category for strategic items.

Make sure to refer to the latest DGFT Trade Notices or consult a licensing expert to apply the right scheme code.

Final Thought

India offers the chance to export valuable, sensitive goods, but there are rigorous obligations involved. Acquiring a DGFT SCOMET license is not only about compliance; it's also about preserving India's standing as an accountable participant in the international military and commerce community.

Businesses must comprehend and adhere to the SCOMET license process, monitor their DGFT SCOMET license status, and stay informed of the validity of their SCOMET licenses in light of the increased scrutiny on exports, particularly those incorporating dual-use technology.

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