Validity of IEC remains irrespective of unit status, allowing de-bonded units to retain and modify their IEC. An IEC remains valid irrespective of a firm's status as DTA or as an EOU/SEZ/EHTP/STP/BTP. On de-bonding the unit need not surrender the IEC; the jurisdictional DC/SEZ will forward the original IEC file to the concerned RA, which becomes custodian and permits the de-bonded unit to modify the IEC. De-bonded units are eligible for benefits from the RA under the Foreign Trade Policy. The IEC issued by the RA also continues to remain valid where a DTA unit converts to an EOU or SEZ/EHTP/STP/BTP.