How to Export from India 2026 — Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Step-by-Step: How to Start Exporting from India
Get GST Registration (if not already done)
Every Indian exporter must be GST registered. Exports are "zero-rated" under GST — you charge 0% GST to foreign buyers but can claim refund of input GST paid on production inputs.
Apply for IEC (Import Export Code)
IEC is a 10-digit code issued by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) — mandatory for all exporters. Apply at dgft.gov.in. Required documents: PAN card, bank certificate, address proof. Fee: ₹500. Processing time: 1–2 working days online.
Register with Export Promotion Bodies (Category-Specific)
For agricultural products: APEDA registration (agriexchange.apeda.gov.in). For marine products: MPEDA. For garments: AEPC. For engineering goods: EEPC. For pharmaceuticals: PHARMEXCIL. These bodies provide export promotion support, trade fair subsidies, and buyer databases.
Open a Current Account with Forex Facility
Export payments come in foreign currency. Open a current account at a bank with authorised dealer (AD) status for forex. Keep separate foreign currency account (EEFC) to avoid forex conversion losses. Recommended: SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Kotak for export banking.
Get ECGC Export Credit Insurance
ECGC (Export Credit Guarantee Corporation) provides insurance against buyer default, political risks, and country risks. Especially important for first-time exporters dealing with new buyers. Premium: 0.1–0.5% of shipment value. Essential for LC-free exports.
Export Documents Required
| Document | Purpose | Who Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Records transaction details, buyer/seller, HS code, value | Exporter |
| Packing List | Details of contents, weights, dimensions per package | Exporter |
| Bill of Lading (BL) / AWB | Shipping contract and receipt from carrier | Shipping Line / Airline |
| Certificate of Origin (COO) | Proves goods manufactured in India — required for FTA benefits | Chamber of Commerce / DGFT |
| Shipping Bill | Customs clearance document for export | Customs / CHA Agent |
| FSSAI Certificate | Required for food/agro exports | FSSAI |
| Phytosanitary Certificate | For plant-based products — certifies pest-free | Dept. of Agriculture |
Payment Terms for Export Business
Advance Payment (Most Secure for Exporter)
Buyer pays 100% before shipment. Best for new buyers and high-risk countries. Add 3–5% premium over market price for offering this security to buyers who want it as well.
Letter of Credit (LC) — Most Common
Bank guarantees payment when you present shipping documents. Most secure for both parties. Setup cost ₹5,000–₹20,000 per LC from buyer's bank. Requires strict document compliance.
Documents against Payment (DP)
Buyer pays against shipping documents presented through banks. 30–60 day payment cycle. ECGC insurance recommended to cover buyer default risk.
GST Refund for Exporters
Exports are zero-rated under GST. You can claim full refund of IGST paid on exported goods. File refund application on the GST portal within 2 years of export date. Average refund time: 30–60 days. For larger exporters: use LUT (Letter of Undertaking) to export without paying IGST upfront and avoid the working capital block.
Finding International Buyers for Indian Products
- IndiaMART & BookMyPartner: International buyers already use these to find Indian suppliers
- APEDA AgriXchange: Global agro buyer database
- B2B Trade Fairs: INDUTECH, SIAL (food), CPHI (pharma), Texworld (textiles)
- Indian Embassies abroad: Trade promotion divisions in UAE, UK, USA, Australia
- Alibaba.com: ₹50,000–₹1,50,000/year subscription but huge global buyer exposure