In today’s world, India’s agricultural products shipping plays an essential role in developing economic growth and promoting international trade. When it comes to agricultural goods transport and processed food from India, the exporters must navigate a systematic plan to get access to the international market, and the products should meet the international norms. In addition, you need to be equally responsible for the packaging process of the product you intend to export and ensure food safety and quality norms.
What are the Opportunities for the Food Processing Sector to Export Food Items from India?
The food processing industry in India has grown significantly in recent years, particularly in the perishable goods sector, creating a substantial export market. India's abundant agricultural resources enable it to export food products worldwide.
The food manufacturing companies in India can expand their reach into the international markets raising brand awareness, and diversify their sources of income by exporting food goods. A vast array of Indian culinary products, including condiments, spices, snacks, drinks, and prepared meals, increase the chance of being exported. Getting an idea about these perspectives, you can decide which market will help you grow your business and you can plan as per your requirements.
How to export agricultural products from India?
If you would like to export agricultural foods from India, you must abide by certain regulations in order to export your products without encountering any difficulties.
Get an Import-Export Code (IEC) : If you want to export agricultural products, you need to apply for an IEC Code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), which is a 10-digit unique code to handle all import and export business.
FSSAI Registration : To export food products, it is important to register with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). FSSAI ensures that food products comply with safety standards and regulations, providing consumers with quality and safe food.
Identify the market and export product : You need to go through market research on the particular product that you need to export. Take factors such as the quality of the product, market demand, and competitors into account.
Recognize the country of destination's import laws : Food products are subject to unique import laws in every country. It is essential to fully investigate and comprehend the destination nation's import laws. Know about product limitations, labeling specifications, and any required paperwork to guarantee compliance and avoid any possible problems during customs clearance.
Necessary Certifications : Verify that the product meets the necessary certification requirements before it is exported. Certifications like the FSSAI, organic certification, ISO 9001, or HACCP are essential, depending on the type of items you sell. These certifications not only help ensure the food product's safety and quality, but they also help you gain the confidence of international buyers.
Packaging and Labeling : Stick to the rules of packaging and labeling as per international norms. Efficient packaging protects your perishable goods during shipping and keeps the product intact. Labels must have the right information about the product name, ingredients, nutritional benefits, and manufacturing details.
Logistics Services: When exporting your products, choose reliable logistics support. Factors including costs, delivery times, and the type of goods you sell must be considered. To ensure the product's quality is maintained, the mode of transportation you have chosen needs to offer temperature-controlled facilities.
Customs Clearance :To export goods without any interruptions, you need to keep handy essential documents such as packing lists , invoices , and shipping documents. You need to coordinate with the customs agents and follow the rules for both India and the desired port where the goods need to be shipped to prevent any delays or complexities.
By following these strict rules, you can safely ship your perishable goods and grow your business globally.
The exports of agricultural food goods and processed foods from India are as follows:
- Vegetables: India has a plethora of vegetables such as onions , potatoes , okra , and green chillies that are exported outside India. Exporters have an opportunity to showcase these rich agricultural products by promoting their businesses in the international market.
- Fruits: India has a diverse variety of tropical fruits like , , , , and watermelons. The mainly exported fruit from India is mango, renowned for its rich flavor and quality. The fruit export business is thriving, making the export of fruits from India a lucrative venture for both small and big entrepreneurs.
- Dairy Products: Not to forget dairy products of India that hold significance in the international market. India has also earned global recognition for their quality and taste in the dairy sector. The Indian dairy products exported from India include milk, cream, cheese, yogurt, and butter.
- Ready -to-eat-food: The hectic and contemporary lifestyle has altered people's dietary preferences and habits. Over time, processed and canned foods have taken the place of prepared meals in the food sector. The export business has been evolving with the trend towards processed foods worldwide.
What are the documents required to export agricultural food products from India?
- Company Registration: Register your business as an export company with the appropriate government authorities. This step establishes your legal identity and enables you to conduct export activities.
- APEDA Registration: APEDA registration is mandatory if you intend to export agricultural and processed food commodities. APEDA encourages the export of particular goods and offers the required assistance and direction. To take advantage of export advantages and benefits, register with APEDA.
- AD Code Registration: Obtain an AD code (authorized dealer code) from your bank. This code is used for foreign exchange transactions involved with exports and imports.
- RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate): You need to obtain a RCMC from an Export Promotion Council or Commodity Board related to your category. This certificate allows you to benefit from various export incentives and benefits.
- GST (Goods and Services Tax): Register your export company under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime. This is necessary for complying with tax regulations and claiming tax benefits.
- Import Export Code (IEC): If you are new to the export business, the first thing you need to do is apply for an IEC Code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), which is a 10-digit unique code to handle all import and export business.
- Commercial Invoice: A commercial invoice is a document needed to go through a seamless import and export process. It serves as a legal proof of sale transaction between the buyer and the seller and includes information regarding product quantity, freight quotes, and terms of value.
- Packing List: A packing list is an essential document that provides all the information regarding the content loaded in the container, the weight, and the dimensions. The packing list enables you to export goods from one port to another without any hurdles.
- Insurance Certificate: This document serves as proof to ensure that the goods are insured during shipping.
Conclusion
It might be challenging to export perishable commodities overseas. Citrus Freight 's innovative concept of aiding exporters to ship goods from one point to another has been a boon. The freight forwarding service provided by Citrus enables a simplified export process, and the customs clearance agents make it easy to clear the paperwork formalities and pave the way for secured shipping.