IEC Update Deadline : Are You Compliant?

As June 30th 2025 nears, there’s a critical compliance step every importer and exporter in India must take: updating their Importer Exporter Code (IEC). The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) mandates that all IEC holders verify and update their details annually between April 1st and June 30th, even if there are no changes. Missing this deadline can lead to deactivation of your IEC, halting your international trade operations.

What is an IEC?

The Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a 10-digit identification number issued by the DGFT to businesses or individuals involved in importing or exporting goods and services from India. It acts as a key license for global trade and is mandatory for customs clearance, shipments, and banking transactions related to foreign trade. You can refer to our previous blog for more information

While the IEC is issued for a lifetime, an annual online update has been made mandatory since 2021 to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of business details. This regulation is part of DGFT’s efforts to digitize and streamline international trade practices. To know in detail about IEC refer to our previous blog https://www.consultancycounsel.com/post/importer-exporter-code-iec

Why You Must Update Your IEC

Even if there are no changes in your IEC details, you must still log in to the DGFT portal and confirm the information annually. If not done by June 30, your IEC will be deactivated, which means:

• You cannot legally import or export goods.

• Your shipments may be stuck at customs.

• You may face delays in payments and damage to your trade relationships.

• Reactivation requires additional time and compliance steps, impacting your business continuity.

CCC Can Help You Beat the Deadline

At Commercial Consultancy Counsel (CCC), we assist businesses across India in IEC registration, annual updates, modifications, and compliance support. Whether you are a first-time exporter or a seasoned global trader, our team ensures your IEC is up-to-date, compliant, and activated well before the deadline.

If you're unsure how to update your IEC or want to avoid any last-minute hassles, CCC is here to take it off your plate—accurately and on time.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Reach out to CCC and stay trade-ready.