India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, and its export sector happens to play an important role in Indian economic development. The best export business in India includes handicrafts, textiles, spices, processed food, pharmaceuticals, and IT services.
Massive natural resources, a skilled labour force, and a well-developed manufacturing base are significant reasons to set up export bases. Close trade relations with the major trading markets of the world make India an ideal platform for exporting companies. With government incentives such as “Make in India,” PLI schemes, and smooth export policies, now it’s a very good time to look for export opportunities.
What Is Export Business?
Export business means selling goods or services produced in one country to buyers in another. This export business has helped a country earn foreign exchange, boost industrial growth, and enhance its global trade relationships. Indian products have become in greater demand due to their affordability, quality, and uniqueness.
India exports handicrafts, textiles, processed foods, pharmaceuticals, IT services, and automobiles. Many Indian businesses have ventured abroad successfully with the help of online platforms, government support, and strategic trade partnerships. Entrepreneurs may choose a direct export method to sell directly to international buyers or indirectly by relying on export agents or trading companies.
How to Start Export Business
Starting an export business requires proper planning, legal compliance, and a market-oriented approach. For setting up a successful export business in India, these are some basic steps to be followed by the entrepreneurs:
1. Select a Product: Choose an export product in high demand worldwide and has a good margin for profit. Observe the trends in the market, competitors’ strategies, and customer preferences. Conduct market research using Google Trends, trade reports, and government databases.
2. Register Your Business: Obtain a Permanent Account Number (PAN) for tax purposes., Register as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or private limited company.
Obtain a Goods and Services Tax (GST) number, if required.
3. Obtain an Import Export Code (IEC): The IEC number is obligatory for the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) exports. One can apply online from the DGFT portal by attaching documents.
4. Export Documentation and Compliance: Get an EPC membership for incentives and benefits. Make sure that the product complies with international standards and certifications. Locate International BuyersUse Alibaba, Amazon Global, and IndiaMART. Attend international trade fairs, B2B meetings, and export promotion events. Connect with embassies, export councils, and industry associations.
6. Logistics and Shipping Arrangement: Select freight forwarders and logistics partners that are reliable. Know the requirements of customs clearance, packaging, and transportation.
Export Documents List
Exporters prepare documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and bills of lading.
| Document | Purpose |
| Commercial Invoice | Details of goods and sale terms. |
| Packing List | Describes contents and packaging. |
| Bill of Lading | Proof of shipment for transport. |
| Certificate of Origin | States where the goods were produced. |
| Export License | Authorization for restricted items. |
| Insurance Certificate | Proof of coverage for goods in transit. |
| Customs Declaration | Information for customs authorities. |
| Letter of Credit | Secures payment through the banking system. |
Top Export Business in India
India has various export opportunities in many sectors. Let’s look into the top export business in India in detail. With its diversified range of exportable goods and services, it offers wide scope for entrepreneurs to enter the import and export business.
Handicrafts and Artisanal Products
Indian handicrafts are in high demand in global markets as they are unique and handcrafted. Articles like wooden carvings, brassware, marble inlays, and handwoven carpets are in high demand in the USA, UK, and UAE.
India is an export leader for handicraft items mainly due to the country’s diverse cultural richness and its experienced craftspeople. This sector receives benefits and subsidy facilities from the Handicrafts Export Promotion Council (HEPC). Business persons can send out handicraft products through various electronic trading platforms, wholesalers, or directly through international buyers.
Textiles and Apparel
India is one of the largest exporters of textiles and apparel, and its major markets are in the USA, Europe, and the Middle East. The country produces a wide range of textiles, including cotton, silk, synthetic fibers, and handloom fabrics.
With more demands for sustainable and organic clothing, Indian textile businesses have vast scope in the export market. Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) and duty-free access to some markets make the export of textiles extremely profitable.
Organic Spices and Herbs
India is the world’s biggest producer and exporter of spices, including turmeric, cardamom, black pepper, and cumin. The demand for organic spices, which holds much medicinal and culinary value, in the USA, Germany, and the Middle East is significant.
The Spices Board of India provides quality certificates, export incentives, and training schemes to facilitate exporters. An entrepreneur can initiate a spice export business by procuring products from organic farms and associating with sound distributors at the international level.
Processed Food and Ready-to-Eat Meals
The demand for Indian snacks, frozen foods, pickles, and ready-to-eat is increasing at lightning speed across the world. Indian companies such as Haldiram’s, MTR, and ITC have gained significant ground in the international market.
Exporters get schemes by the Govt like Agri-Export Policy, subsidy are also available from APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority). Packaging stability, shelf life, third party compliance with international food safety standards are the success factor for this business
Leather Products
India is one of the world’s biggest producers and exporters of leather and leather products. The country has a well-developed leather industry that offers an array of products, such as footwear, handbags, wallets, belts, jackets, and fashion accessories. Indian leather is renowned for superior craftsmanship, value for money, and a diversified product range, which makes Indian leather products very popular in the international market. Countries like Italy, Germany, France, the USA, and the UK have a huge demand for Indian leather goods, as they are widely used in the fashion and luxury sectors.
The leather industry has seen steady growth due to its skilled workforce, advanced manufacturing units, and access to quality raw materials. The Indian government has also been actively promoting leather exports through the Council for Leather Exports (CLE), providing subsidies, financial assistance, and support to the exporters. The Indian companies are now focusing on eco-friendly and sustainable leather because the demand of the world market is changing to environmentally conscious products. Indian leather exporters have the opportunity to tap into niche markets with the rise of vegan leather and organic tanning processes.
Pharmaceuticals
India is the world’s largest pharmaceutical exporter. The country supplies low-cost and high-quality medicines to the rest of the world. The Indian pharmaceutical industry is estimated to be in billions of dollars and continues to grow as it is capable of producing generic medicines, vaccines, and specialty drugs at lower costs than most other countries. The USA, Brazil, South Africa, Germany, and the UK import huge tonnage of Indian pharmaceutical products that are both affordable and reliable. India’s pharmaceutical sector has been playing a very important role in fulfilling global health needs; therefore, it also turns out to be one of the most profitable export businesses in India.
A strong research and development (R&D) sector, highly advanced manufacturing facilities, and an extremely skilled workforce are some of the advantages India has in its pharmaceutical industry. The Pharmexcil helps export Indian pharma by offering them financial support, export certification, and trade promotion services. This is why pharmaceutical exports from India are going to increase day by day due to continuous innovation in drug manufacturing and the rising global demand for cheaper medicines.
Gems and Jewellery
The Indian gem and jewelry industry is supported by the Gem and Jewelry Export Promotion Council, which helps businesses expand globally through trade fairs, financial assistance, and marketing support. With increased demand for personalized jewelry, lab-grown diamonds, and traditional designs made by hand, Indian jewelry exporters have great opportunities in the international market.
Indian jewelry exports are strong due to factors such as high-quality craftsmanship, competitive pricing, and availability of skilled artisans. Indian diamonds and gold jewelry are in huge demand in the Middle East, North America, and Europe where the demand for fine jewelry continues to grow. The industry has also responded to changing consumer preferences by introducing lab-grown diamonds, contemporary jewelry designs, and sustainable sourcing practices. Duty-free policies, export promotion schemes, and other incentives to facilitate trading are supported by the government towards this sector so that entry to the international markets would not pose difficulties.
IT Services
India is the world’s largest exporter of IT services, software solutions, and cybersecurity consulting. The USA, UK, and Australia are the biggest markets for Indian IT companies.
With the increase in global digital transformation, IT exports remain one of the most profitable export businesses in India.
Organic Agricultural Produce
Organic rice, wheat, pulses, and fresh fruits are in great demand worldwide. The USA, Canada, and Japan prefer pesticide-free, organic-certified Indian agricultural products. Government subsidies and APEDA certification help organic farmers and exporters expand into global markets.
Best Export Business In India FAQs
1. Which is the best export business in India?
The best export business in India includes textiles, pharmaceuticals, handicrafts, spices, IT services, and automobile parts. These industries have high demand and profitability.
2. How to start import export business?
To start an import and export business, register a company, get an Import Export Code (IEC), comply with legal requirements, and find buyers using trade fairs and online platforms.
3. Which bank is best for export business in India?
SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and EXIM Bank offer the best export finance and trade loan services.
4. What are the key documents required for export business?
Key export documents shall include IEC certificate, Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Certificate of Origin.
5. What are the important documents needed for export business?
These are essential documents that include: IEC certificate, Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, and Customs Declaration Form.
