How to Verify an Import Export Code (IEC) in India
A mandatory compliance guide for global procurement teams and Indian importers. Learn how to verify 10-character IEC codes on the DGFT portal, validate exporter PAN credentials, and avoid international B2B trade fraud.
Why IEC Verification is Crucial for Cross-Border B2B Trade
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-character primary business identification number required for any commercial shipment entering or leaving Indian ports. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), an active IEC confirms that an exporter is legally authorized to conduct overseas commerce.
Before transferring advance payments or opening Letters of Credit (LC) for export orders, buyers must verify the exporter's IEC status. Pairing IEC checks with official GSTIN verification and MCA corporate audit records ensures that your Indian trade partner is fully legitimate.
4-Step IEC Online Verification Protocol
1. Inspect the 10-Character IEC Number
An Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit alphanumeric code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). For entities registered after 2017, the 10-digit IEC is identical to the business's Permanent Account Number (PAN).
2. Perform Official DGFT Public Search
Navigate to the official DGFT portal (dgft.gov.in) under "Services > View Any IEC Details". Input the 10-character IEC and matching entity name to generate the official status report.
3. Verify Registered Firm Name & Partner/Director Details
Cross-check the firm name, registered address, and director names returned by the DGFT system against the supplier's official GSTIN certificate and MCA corporate filings.
4. Confirm Annual IEC Update / Activity Status
Mandatory DGFT rules require exporters to update their IEC profile annually between April and June. Confirm that the IEC status shows "Active" and has not been de-activated for non-updating.
Exporter IEC Red Flags & Fraud Prevention
Beyond IEC: Complete Indian Supplier Due Diligence
While IEC verification proves export eligibility, it does not confirm factory manufacturing capacity or financial stability. Before dispatching large purchase orders, buyers should inspect physical storefront premises and request third-party factory quality audits.
SaudaNama streamlines supplier due diligence by consolidating GSTIN compliance checks, MCA filings, and physical video verification badges on every listed manufacturer's profile. Learn more about how SaudaNama verification works.
SaudaNama is an independent B2B business discovery and verification network. SaudaNama is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an official agency of GSTN, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), FSSAI, DGFT, or the Ministry of MSME.
Official Primary Sources
For verification procedures and the latest regulatory information, refer directly to the relevant official authority:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Import Export Code (IEC) in India?
An Import Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory 10-digit registration number issued by DGFT (Ministry of Commerce and Industry) to any business importing goods into India or exporting goods from India.
How do I verify an Indian exporter's IEC online for free?
You can verify any IEC on the official DGFT portal (dgft.gov.in) by using the public "View Any IEC Details" tool. No portal credentials or fees are required.
Is an IEC required for service exports?
IEC is mandatory for all physical goods exports and imports. For service exports, IEC is required if the exporter wishes to claim incentives under government export promotion schemes.
What is the relationship between GSTIN and IEC?
For business entities registered under GST, the IEC number is identical to the entity's 10-digit PAN. However, both GSTIN registration and DGFT IEC registration must be kept active independently.
How does SaudaNama help verify Indian exporters?
SaudaNama aggregates government registry checks (GSTIN, MCA filings, Udyam MSME status) and physical storefront audits to verify manufacturer and exporter authenticity. Learn more about how SaudaNama verification works.