top of page
Search

How to Start an Export Business from West Bengal in 2025

Updated: Aug 4

Infographic showing key export products and districts of West Bengal in 2025

West Bengal, with its vibrant cultural identity and strategic location, is emerging as a strong export hub in India. From jute and leather to tea and terracotta, the state offers enormous export potential rooted in traditional skills and natural resources. If you're a first-time exporter or an aspiring entrepreneur, 2025 could be your year to go global. Here's a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you start your export business from West Bengal.



Why West Bengal is Ideal for Exporters


  • Proximity to ports like Kolkata and Haldia

  • Rich base of GI-tagged and ODOP (One District One Product) goods

  • Robust MSME presence and government support schemes

  • Unique cultural products: Baluchari sarees, Bankura terracotta, Darjeeling tea


Step 1: Identify What to Export

The key to export success starts with choosing the right product (YouTube Guidance). Look for:


  • GI-tagged products (e.g., Nakshi Kantha, Santiniketan leather)

  • ODOP district-based clusters (e.g., mangoes from Nadia, textiles from Murshidabad)

  • Products with international demand and competitive pricing


Use tools like ITC Trade Map or DGFT’s Export Dashboard to validate your product-market fit.


Step 2: Complete Business and Export Registration


You’ll need the following documents and registrations to legally start exporting from West Bengal:

  1. IEC (Import Export Code) from DGFT

  2. GST Registration

  3. Udyam Registration (for MSME benefits)

  4. RCMC from Export Promotion Council


Also, explore registration under Banglashree and ODOP incentives provided by the West Bengal government.


Step 3: Understand Logistics and Port Access


West Bengal offers unique logistics advantages:

  • Kolkata Port and Haldia Dock for direct sea access

  • ICD Durgapur and Falta SEZ for special export handling

  • Kona CFS for consolidated shipments


Choosing the right logistics route is essential to keeping costs low and ensuring timely delivery.



Step 4: Discover and Validate Buyers


Use both online and offline methods to find global buyers:

  • Platforms: IndiaMART, Amazon Global, TradeIndia, GlobalLinker

  • Embassy and EPC networks: Participate in virtual B2B meets

  • Build digital presence: A professional catalogue, email, and social media page boost credibility



Step 5: Avail Government Schemes for Exporters


Both central and state governments offer generous support:

  • RoDTEP(Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products)

  • EPCG, Interest Equalisation Scheme, MAI grants

  • Banglashree and ODOP-linked grants (West Bengal-specific)


If you're a woman entrepreneur, schemes like Stand-Up India and MAI’s women-specific export support can also help you scale faster.


Step 6: Comply with Quality, Packaging, and Certifications

Ensure your product meets international quality standards:


  • FSSAI, AGMARK, GI labelling for agri and craft products

  • Certification through Export Inspection Agency (Kolkata), BIS, or CLRI (for leather)

Proper packaging, labelling, and testing can prevent rejections at foreign ports.


Step 7: Learn About Payment and Finance Mechanisms

Understand the various payment methods in international trade:

  • Advance Payment

  • Letter of Credit (LC)

  • Documents Against Payment (DP) and Documents Against Acceptance (DA)


Consider pre-shipment and post-shipment finance options through Banks or fintech platforms. Banks like SBI and EXIM Bank also offer trade finance schemes with interest subsidies.


Step 8: Get Practical Export Training Backed by Real Banking and Trade Experience


Starting an export business from West Bengal? Don’t just learn theory—learn from someone who’s been on the inside. As a former banker and now a full-time international trade advisor, I offer practical, region-specific training that equips new exporters with real-world skills and confidence.

Our hands-on sessions are specially designed for Bengali entrepreneurs and cover:


  • GI-based exports like Darjeeling Tea, Baluchari Sarees, and Bankura Terracotta

  • Payment methods and export finance – including LC, advance, DA/DP, and funding schemes like PCFC and Interest Equalisation

  • Trade analytics – using tools like ITC Trade Map to select the right product-market fit

  • Inspection, logistics, and international negotiation skills to handle buyers confidently


If you’re serious about exports and want a mentor who understands both finance and foreign trade, feel free to contact me through my website. Let’s take your local business to the global stage—with the right knowledge, tools, and guidance available on a YouTube playlist.



Conclusion: West Bengal’s Time to Go Global


West Bengal has the products, heritage, and now intends to be a significant player in global trade. If you're a first-time exporter, 2025 is a great time to start. With rising demand for authentic, sustainable products and growing state support, your business can truly make a mark.


Comments

bottom of page