International Cooperation Scheme - Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters (CBFTE)

The International Cooperation Scheme’s Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters (CBFTE) reimburses key export-related expenses such as Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), export insurance premium, and testing/quality certification charges, making it easier for small businesses to start exporting and comply with international standards.

Highlights

• Offers direct reimbursement for export expenses to first-time exporters.
• Supports exporters get registered, insured and certified 
• Connects businesses with Export Facilitation Centres for hands-on guidance.

What is the CBFTE ?

• It is a scheme that provides financial assistance to exporters for product registration 
• It is a scheme that reimburses cost of export certification, testing, quality & packaging

Objectives

• Boost direct exports by first-time MSE exporters.
• Reduce the entry barrier to international trade for businesses.
• Promote the adoption of international product standards and certifications.
• Facilitate market access and minimise export risks.
• Enable businesses to integrate with global value chains.

Benefits of Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters

• Expense Reimbursement
  Covers essential startup costs for export compliance, reducing financial burden.
• Global Market Access
  Easier entry into international markets with proper certification and insurance.
• Risk Mitigation
  Export insurance support reduces risk of payment default or loss.
• Quality Enhancement
  Incentivises MSMEs to upgrade product quality to global standards.
• On-Ground Support
  Dedicated Export Facilitation Centres provide guidance on documentation, process, and market entry.

Financial Assistance Under the Scheme

Eligibility for the Scheme

You are eligible if:

• MSME registered and recognised by the Ministry of MSME.
• Exporting directly for the first time (never exported previously).
• Applicants Importer Exporter Code (IEC) should be within 3 years of the date of export shipment.
• Expenses claimed fall within specified categories and are accompanied by actual proof.

You are not eligible if:

• Already received support for the same expenses from other government export schemes.
• Have exported internationally prior to scheme application.

Documents Required for Capacity Building

• MSME registration or UDYAM certificate.
• Proof of first-time export
• Invoice/receipts for RCMC, insurance premium, and certification/testing charges.
• IEC code 

Application Process for Capacity Building

You can apply:

• Online by submitting an application on the IC Scheme portal.

Examples of Where the Capacity Building Scheme Can Be Used

• A textile MSME obtains RCMC and export insurance and ships its first order abroad.
• A small electronics unit pays for international quality certification before selling overseas.
• A food processing MSE receives reimbursement for export product testing and certification.
• A handicrafts exporter obtains EPC registration and exports for the first time with scheme support.
• A leather goods manufacturer secures export insurance under ECGC’s small exporter policy.