Star Export House Certification

The Foreign Trade Policy of India aims to simplify and encourage international trade for importers, exporters, and traders. Among various export promotion schemes, the Status Holder Certificate, also known as the Star Export House Certificate, plays a crucial role in recognizing and rewarding high-performing exporters.

Eligibility Criteria for Star Export House

To qualify for Star Export House status, the exporter must meet the following conditions:

  • Hold a valid Import Export Code (IEC)
  • Fulfill minimum export performance thresholds (FOB/FOR value in USD) over the current and previous three financial years
  • Achieve export performance in at least two out of four financial years

Status categories based on export performance:

Status Category

Minimum Export Performance (USD Million)

One Star Export House

3

Two Star Export House

15

Three Star Export House

50

Four Star Export House

200

Five Star Export House

800

The export turnover must be backed by e-BRCs (electronic Bank Realization Certificates). Exports on a re-export basis are not considered. Export earnings should be in free foreign exchange, and for deemed exports, conversion to USD is based on the CBEC exchange rate as of April 1st of the financial year.

Benefits of Star Export House Certification

Faster Approval under Advance Authorization & EPCG

100% Exemption from Bank Guarantee

Eligibility to Set Up Export Warehouses

Export of Free-of-Cost Samples

Self-Certification of Origin

Ease of Documentation and Preferential Handling

AEO Benefits

Easier Access to Finance

Double Weightage Concept (One Star Export House Only)

Certain exporters are allowed double weightage, applicable only to One Star Export House category. This benefit helps exporters with smaller turnovers qualify for certification.

Eligible categories include

Validity and Renewal of Status Holder Certificate

The Star Export House Certificate is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance. Renewal applications must be submitted before the certificate expires.

DGFT Application Requirements

To apply for the Star Export House Certificate through the DGFT portal, ensure the following:

01.

DGFT profile must be linked to the Import Export Code (IEC)

02.

Valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) must be registered

03.

Export turnover data must be updated on the DGFT portal