If you’ve ever wondered how to get Indian products onto American shelves, you’re in the right place. The US market loves spices, textiles, tech parts, and even rice—but only if you follow the right rules. Below you’ll find the must‑do steps, the hottest sectors, and real‑world tips that cut through the paperwork and get sales moving.
According to the latest 2025 data, services and IT dominate India’s export basket, but goods like pharmaceuticals, apparel, and agricultural items are gaining ground. The US is the top destination for Indian software, but it also imports $5 billion of food items every year. Understanding which sector you belong to helps you pick the right compliance path – a pharma exporter faces different lab tests than a hand‑loom weaver.
1. Know the HS Code. Every product gets a six‑digit Harmonized System code. It tells customs what you’re shipping and which duties apply. Look it up on the Indian Customs website or ask your freight forwarder.
2. Check US Import Requirements. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food, cosmetics, and medical devices. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) handles toys and electronics. Get the relevant certifications early – a missing COA can delay your shipment by weeks.
3. Register with the Export Promotion Councils. Bodies like the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) or the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) give you access to market intel, buyer databases, and sometimes even financial assistance.
4. Pick the Right Shipping Method. For small batches, air freight gets your goods to US ports in days but costs more. Larger volumes are cheaper by sea, but you’ll need to plan for longer lead times and possible demurrage.
5. Set Up a US Entry Strategy. You can sell directly to retailers, use a US‑based distributor, or list on platforms like Amazon Global Selling. Each option has pros and cons – distributors handle customs paperwork but take a cut, while direct sales give you full margin but require more logistics know‑how.
6. Mind the Taxes and Duties. The US applies a tariff based on the HS code and country of origin. Some products enjoy preferential rates under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). Use an online duty calculator to estimate landed cost and price your product competitively.
7. Stay Updated on Policy Changes. Trade policies shift fast. The recent rice export ban in India showed how a single government decision can ripple through global prices. Sign up for alerts from the Ministry of Commerce and the US International Trade Commission to avoid surprise disruptions.
By treating each step like a checklist, you turn a daunting process into a series of doable tasks. Start with the product you know best, get the HS code, and move on. The more you automate, the faster you’ll see revenue grow.
Ready to take the leap? Grab a simple spreadsheet, list your product’s HS code, note the relevant US agency, and contact a freight forwarder today. The US market is waiting – all you need is the right paperwork and a clear plan.
Get a deep look at what India sells to the USA, with real products, trends, trade stats, and tips for entrepreneurs wanting to tap into the India-US export market.
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