DGFT Requires Certifying Authorities like CAs, CSs to Register for Digital Certification of Appendix 4H [Read Notification]

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade ( DGFT ), vide Trade notice no. 21 /2024-25 dated 17th October 2024 has required that Certifying Authorities such as Chartered Accountants (CAs), Company Secretaries (CSs), Cost Accountants, and Chartered Engineers register on the DGFT platform to enable the digital certification of Appendix 4H.

This is with the broader electronic submission system introduced under Paragraph 1.04 (f) of the Handbook of Procedures, which facilitates the seamless integration of digitally signed documents into exporters’ applications for various Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) schemes.

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Through this system, exporters can now electronically submit Appendix 4H certificates, which document the consumption and stock of duty-free or domestically sourced raw materials and components under the Advance Authorization and DFIA schemes. The DGFT has fully digitalized the process, allowing Certifying Authorities to digitally sign and submit certificates using their online DGFT accounts.

Exporters can complete Appendix 4H forms on the DGFT website when applying for Advance Authorization or DFIA Transferable Scrips. The system allows the exporter to forward the form to the registered Certifying Authority, who can then verify, update, and digitally sign the document using Aadhaar e-sign or a Digital Signature Token. Once signed, the Appendix 4H certificate is automatically attached to the exporter’s redemption or verification application.

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Certifying Authorities must register on the DGFT portal by providing their membership details. They can monitor and manage drafts, review submissions, and digitally sign Appendix 4H certificates as part of this streamlined workflow.

To assist stakeholders, DGFT has provided a user guide and FAQs on its website. Outreach programs with institutes of Certifying Authorities will further enhance familiarity with the system. Exporters and stakeholders can seek assistance through the DGFT’s toll-free support, raise queries via the DGFT Helpdesk, or contact the DGFT through email.

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