If you’re an Indian maker eyeing foreign buyers, you’re not alone. More than 30 % of India’s GDP now comes from exports, and the world wants Indian goods – from spices to tech. The good news? You don’t need a PhD in trade law to start shipping your products abroad. Let’s break down what really matters, step by step.
First, ask yourself what you make and who needs it. Indian textiles, organic food, hand‑crafted jewellery, and software services consistently rank high in overseas demand. Check recent export data – for 2025, electronics and pharmaceuticals led the charts, while rice saw a temporary ban that actually opened up gaps for other grains.
Next, scout the market. Use free resources like the Ministry of Commerce’s Trade Map or export‑focused reports from the Federation of Indian Export Organisations. Look for countries where your product fills a shortage or where tariffs are low. For example, the US still imports a huge volume of Indian cotton, while EU nations favor Indian organic tea.
Don’t forget competition. If dozens of firms sell the same mango variety to the UK, consider a niche angle – organic certification, unique packaging, or a story about your farm. Buyers love authenticity, and a strong brand can command a premium price.
1. Register with DGFT. Every exporter needs an Importer‑Exporter Code (IEC). The online application takes a few days and costs around ₹500.
2. Get your product classified. Use the HS (Harmonised System) code to know duty rates and required documents. A wrong code can delay customs and raise costs.
3. Secure certifications. Depending on the product, you may need FSSAI approval (food), BIS certification (electronics), or phytosanitary certificates (agri‑goods). These are often the gatekeepers for overseas customs.
4. Find a reliable freight forwarder. A good forwarder handles shipping, insurance, and customs clearance. Compare rates, but also check their experience with your product type.
5. Prepare export documents. The standard set includes commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and any product‑specific certificates. Missing a single doc can cause a hold at the port.
6. Price for export. Remember to add freight, insurance, duty (if any), and handling fees. Use a simple formula: FOB price + freight + insurance = landed cost for the buyer.
7. Market your product. Attend trade fairs like India Export Summit or use B2B platforms such as IndiaMART and ExportersIndia. A well‑crafted product catalogue and clear payment terms build trust.
8. Manage payments. Preferred methods are letters of credit (LC) or advance payments. For smaller orders, PayPal or wire transfers work, but watch out for exchange‑rate fees.
9. Stay compliant. Keep records of every shipment for at least five years. This helps with GST refunds and audits.
10. Scale wisely. Once you have a steady order flow, consider setting up a small overseas warehouse or a local partner to cut shipping times and improve customer service.
Exporting isn’t a magic trick, but with the right prep you can turn a local product into a global brand. Start small, stay organized, and let the data guide your choices. The world is already buying Indian quality – you just need to get it on the ship.
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