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Steps to Start an Export Business in India: A Beginner’s Guide for 2025

Updated: 2 days ago

Choosing international export market for beginners in India

India’s global trade footprint is expanding rapidly, creating new opportunities for individuals eager to enter the world of exports. Whether you're a student, an aspiring entrepreneur, or an MSME owner, this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through exactly how to start an export business in India.


These are the steps to start an export business, built around practical steps and SEO-verified queries that new exporters frequently search online.


Why Start an Export Business?


Exporting allows Indian entrepreneurs to tap into high-value international markets, build global relationships, and increase revenue. Government support through various schemes and digitisation has made starting an export business more accessible than ever.


Steps to Start Export Business in India (2025)


1. Choose the Right Export Product


Start by selecting products with consistent international demand. You can use platforms like ITC Trade Map or DGFT’s India Trade Portal for product research.


Popular beginner-friendly exports:

  • Handicrafts

  • Spices and herbal products

  • Textiles and garments

  • Processed food

  • GI-tagged or ODOP products


2. Obtain Import Export Code (IEC)


Your IEC code is a legal requirement issued by the DGFT.


Steps to apply:

  • Go to the DGFT portal

  • Register and log in

  • Upload documents: PAN, Aadhaar, address proof

  • Pay ₹500

  • IEC is usually issued within 2–3 working days


3. Register Your Business Entity


Choose from the following legal structures:

  • Sole Proprietorship

  • Partnership / LLP

  • Private Limited Company

Open a current account for export transactions.


4. Identify Your Target Market


Use tools like Google Trends, EPC reports, and India Exim data to identify:

  • High-demand regions

  • Countries with FTAs (e.g., UAE, Australia, ASEAN)

  • Low-tariff markets


5. Find International Buyers


Finding buyers is not critical in this Internet era. Start with:

  • Export Promotion Councils (FIEO, APEDA, etc.)

  • B2B platforms (Alibaba, TradeIndia, IndiaMART Global)

  • Social media (LinkedIn outreach)

  • Global trade fairs (offline and virtual)

  • Many more


6. Understand Documentation and Shipping


Common export documents:

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • Bill of Lading / Airway Bill

  • Certificate of Origin

  • FSSAI / Phytosanitary certificate (for food)

  • Insurance certificate


Work with a reliable CHA (Customs House Agent) and understand Incoterms like FOB, CIF, and EXW.


7. Secure Finance & Insurance


Explore:

  • Pre-shipment & post-shipment finance

  • ECGC (Export Credit Guarantee Corporation) covers

  • Interest Equalisation Scheme for MSMEs


This step protects you from payment default, buyer insolvency, or political risk.


Government Support for Exporters


Starting an export business in India is a gateway to global growth. With the right knowledge, compliance steps, and strategy, you can confidently transition from local to international.


📩 Book a call today at www.dhritimukherjeepipil.com or

📞 Or connect with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/28031987


 
 
 

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