Importer Exporter Code (IEC): Meaning and definition

IEC stands for Importer Exporter Code, which is a unique 10-digit code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), a department under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in India. It is mandatory for individuals or businesses engaged in import or export of goods or services from India. It acts as an identification number for exporters and importers and is used for customs clearance, documentation, and other trade-related processes. The IEC facilitates smooth and regulated international trade by ensuring compliance with legal requirements, monitoring foreign trade statistics, and preventing unauthorized trade activities.