Rubber Board Registration: Licenses, Compliance

Introduction to the Rubber Board and Its Role in the Rubber Industry

The government established the Rubber Board of India under the Rubber Act of 1947. The main body oversees the growth, regulation, and promotion of the rubber industry in India. Operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, it oversees licensing, research, subsidies, and policy implementation to ensure sustainable growth.

The Board's job includes regulating natural rubber transactions. It also issues licenses to rubber manufacturers, dealers, and processors. Additionally, it helps rubber production with technical support and market information.

The Board enforces the Rubber Act to ensure that they meet quality standards. It promotes fair trade practices and supports all stakeholders. This includes small rubber producers and large exporters. Its e-Governance Portal (RBeGP) streamlines processes like license applications, annual returns filing, and digital certificate management, fostering transparency and efficiency .

Types of Rubber Board Licenses: Eligibility and Requirements

The Rubber Board categorizes licenses based on business activities. Below are the primary types of Rubber Board certifications:

1. Dealers License
   Required for entities engaged in purchasing, selling, or trading raw rubber. Applicants must submit:
   • Proof of identity (Aadhaar, PAN) and address proof of the business owner.
   • Documentation for proposed business premises (ownership/lease agreement).
   • A license fee of ₹3,540 (including 18% GST) for a three-year term, renewable for five years .
2. Processors License
   For businesses processing rubber (e.g., converting latex to sheets). Key requirements include:
   • Project report outlining technical and operational plans.
   • Valid Pollution Control Board consent and municipal licenses.
   • Similar fees as the Dealers License.
3. Manufacturers License
   Mandatory for rubber manufacturers producing finished goods (e.g., tires, industrial products). Fees vary:
   • ₹590 for annual consumption up to 4 tonnes.
   • ₹1,180 for exceeding 4 tonnes.
   • Additional requirements include factory registration and technical feasibility reports.
4. Special Authorization
   For entities seeking to acquire natural rubber beyond standard quotas, subject to Board approval.

How to Apply for Rubber Board Registration

The process to apply for Rubber Board certification involves both online and offline steps:

Step 1: One-Time Registration on RBeGP

Create an account on the Rubber Board’s e-Governance Portal (RUBIS). Upload scanned copies of ID proofs, address proof, and business registration documents.

Step 2: Submit Application and Fees

• Select the relevant license type (Dealer/Processor/Manufacturer).
• Pay fees online via net banking, debit/credit cards, or Demand Draft. GST is applicable on all transactions .

Step 3: Document Verification and Inspection

The Board reviews applications and may conduct site inspections for manufacturers license or large-scale processors. Ensure proposed business premises meet infrastructure and safety standards.

Step 4: Download Digital Certificate

Upon approval, download the Rubber Board certification from the portal. The certificate includes a unique User Control Number (UCN) for validation.

Compliance and Obligations for License Holders

License holders must adhere to the Rubber Act and submit periodic returns:

1. Annual Returns and Monthly Filings
   • Dealers: Submit Monthly H2 and L returns.
   • Manufacturers: File Monthly K & L and Annual K1 returns .
   • Failure to comply may result in penalties or license cancellation.
2. Renewals and Amendments
   • Licenses are initially valid for three years (renewable for five years).
   • Clear all dues and file pending returns before renewal. Amendments (e.g., change in business address) require physical submission of revised documents.

Benefits of Rubber Board Registration

1. Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties under the Rubber Act and operate with government recognition.
2. Market Access: Gain eligibility for subsidies, export promotions, and participation in international trade fairs.
3. Technical Support: Access R&D insights from the Rubber Research Institute of India (RRII) to enhance rubber production efficiency.
4. Credibility: Build trust with suppliers and buyers through Rubber Board certification.

Challenges and Solutions for Stakeholders

1. Documentation Complexity
   • Solution: Use the RBeGP’s online helpdesk for real-time assistance.
2. Pollution Control Compliance
   • Solution: Collaborate with the Pollution Control Board early in the setup phase to streamline approvals.
3. Mapping Supply Chains
   • Exporters must ensure suppliers are registered and transactions are recorded via the IntelliTrack app for EUDR compliance.

Why Choose PSR Compliance for Rubber Board Registration?