US Business Hub: Practical Tips for Indian Entrepreneurs
Thinking about the United States as a market? You’re not alone. The US remains one of the biggest buyers of Indian goods, and many Indian founders are curious about setting up shop across the border. This page pulls together the most useful articles that break down everything from export paperwork to legal steps for US citizens wanting to start a business in India.
Why focus on the US? Simple – the market is huge, consumer trends move fast, and there’s a solid demand for Indian products, especially tech, textiles, and food items. But the opportunities come with rules, taxes, and cultural nuances that can trip up even seasoned founders. Below you’ll find bite‑size advice that gets straight to the point, so you can act without wading through legal jargon.
How to Export Indian Products to the US
Exporting sounds intimidating, but it’s mostly about paperwork and compliance. First, register for an IEC (Import Export Code) with the DGFT – that’s your passport for any overseas shipment. Next, check the HS code for your product; the right code determines duties and any special certifications you might need.
For food items, the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act is the main hurdle. You’ll need a Prior Notice filing before the goods leave port, and sometimes a third‑party lab test to prove safety standards. Once the paperwork is sorted, choose a reliable freight forwarder who knows US customs. They’ll handle the Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, and packing list – all documents Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will ask for.
Pricing is another piece of the puzzle. Add up the FOB cost, shipping, insurance, and expected duties (usually 0‑20% depending on the product). Use a simple spreadsheet to see if your margin still looks good after those extra costs. Many Indian exporters find that bundling smaller orders into a single container saves money on freight.
Starting a Business in India as a US Citizen
If you’re an American looking to launch a startup in India, the process is more straightforward than you think. The first step is to decide your business structure – most foreigners go for a Private Limited Company because it limits personal liability and looks professional to investors.
Next, you’ll need a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and a Director Identification Number (DIN) for every foreign director. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal lets you file the incorporation forms online; just upload your passport copy, proof of address, and the DSC‑signed documents.
Don’t forget the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy. For most sectors, the government allows 100% FDI under the automatic route, meaning you don’t need prior approval. However, you must still report the investment to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and obtain a Permanent Account Number (PAN) for the company.
Once the company is registered, you’ll need GST registration if your turnover exceeds the prescribed limit (currently ₹20 lakh for most services). This lets you claim input tax credits on purchases and stay compliant with Indian tax law. Finally, open a current account with an Indian bank – many banks have special packages for foreign founders, offering multi‑currency facilities and easy online access.
These two focus areas – exporting to the US and starting a business as a US citizen – are just the tip of the iceberg. Browse the articles below for deeper dives, real‑world examples, and step‑by‑step templates that will save you time and money. Whether you’re eyeing the US consumer market or planning to set up a base in India, the right information makes all the difference.
Want to know how much it actually costs to register a business name in the US? Here’s a practical guide breaking down what you’ll pay in each state, and the sneaky extra fees that might pop up. Learn the difference between a DBA, LLC, and corporation, and how those choices affect the final bill. Find out which states are cheapest, which are the most expensive, and smart tips to keep your registration simple and affordable.
