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What Is SCOMET?

SCOMET stands for Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies.
It is a regulatory framework under India’s DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) that controls the export of sensitive, dual-use, and high-technology items.

These items can have both civilian and military applications, making them critical for national security. Exporting such products without proper authorization can lead to severe penalties, shipment holds, and legal action.

Why SCOMET Registration Is Important for Exporters in India

SCOMET registration is essential for companies dealing in advanced technologies or sensitive materials. Since these goods can be used for both civil and defense purposes, strict government oversight is required.

✔ Key Reasons to Register Under SCOMET

• Mandatory under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP)

• Ensures compliance with international non-proliferation treaties

• Reduces risk of shipment seizure, penalties, or blacklisting

• Enhances credibility with international buyers

• Enables smooth customs and port clearance

• Protects your business from legal complications

• Helps India uphold global security commitments

❌ Risks of Exporting Without SCOMET License

• IEC suspension

• Heavy penalties under FTDR Act

• Port clearance delays

• Shipment confiscation

• Ban on future exports

• DGFT compliance audits

SCOMET Categories Explained (1 to 9)

Understanding SCOMET categories helps exporters identify the appropriate license and compliance requirements.

Category 0 – Nuclear Material, Facilities & Equipment

Examples:

• Uranium compounds

• Reactor equipment

• Nuclear-grade instruments

Category 1 – Toxic Chemical Agents & Precursors

Examples:

• Sarin precursors

• Organic chemicals

• Toxic agents

Category 2 – Materials, Electronics, Computers & ICT

Examples:

• Alloys

• Graphite materials

• Microelectronics

• Semiconductors

• Telecom devices

Category 3 – Aerospace Systems & Equipment

Examples:

• Rocket components

• Gyroscopes

• Spacecraft parts

Category 4 – Navigational, Avionics & Marine Equipment

Examples:

• GPS jammers

• Radar systems

• Marine direction-finding equipment

Category 5 – Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) & Drone Systems

Examples:

• Drone components

• UAV software

• Payload sensors

• Thermal imaging modules

Category 6 – Sensors & Laser Systems

Examples:

• Infrared cameras

• Thermal sensors

• High-power lasers

Category 7 – High-Performance Computing & Telecom

Examples:

• Encryption devices

• High-speed computers

• Network security hardware

Category 8 – Marine Systems

Examples:

• Submersible systems

• Naval robots

• Marine navigation tools

Category 9 – Miscellaneous Items

Items not listed elsewhere but still considered sensitive.

Who Needs SCOMET Registration?

SCOMET registration is required for businesses involved in the production, sale, or export of sensitive goods.

✔ Required For:

• Manufacturers

• Exporters & Merchant Exporters

• Traders / Resellers

• Drone / UAV companies

• Software exporters

• Engineering and R&D companies

• Electronics & Semiconductor industries

• Chemical and Material exporters

If your product falls into any SCOMET category—or you are unsure—you must apply for SCOMET Classification and SCOMET License before export.

Documents Required for SCOMET Registration

Proper documentation ensures fast and smooth approval from DGFT.

📄 Mandatory Documents

• IEC (Import Export Code)

• PAN & GST

• Technical specification sheet

• Product catalog / datasheet

• Purchase order / Letter of Intent

• End-use certificate (EUC)

• End-user details

• Export contract / agreement

• Board Resolution (if applicable)

• DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)

📄 Additional Documents (If Required by DGFT)

• Testing report

• Workflow diagram

• Manufacturing license

• BOM (Bill of Materials)

• Technical drawings