India is known worldwide for the export of food products in different parts of the world. Export food products from India to any other part of the world needs to comply with certain legal requirements. Government is very strict about the compliances of the export food businesses. Also it’s not at all easy to do export food business in India. In the current article or we can say blog we will discuss the key requirements and legal compliances to do export of food products from India to any other part of the world. Hence if you are in the export food business or thinking about entering into the same business you must be aware about the things which have been discussed in the present article.
What do you Mean by Export of Food Products?
There are a number of food products which have been manufactured or produced in India. When India sends these food products from India to any other country in the world for the purpose of business it is called export food products from India. It seems very easy to do export food products business on papers but actually it is vice versa. This is because such kinds of business are directly related to the food and negligence in such business can cause loss to the people at large. Hence while considering the health of the people there are a lot of formalities to do export of food products from India to any other country.
Key Requirements of the Export of Food Products
Some of the key requirements in order to do export food products from India to any other country are discussed below:
Business Registration
To do big businesses like export food products from India to another country one needs to register his or her business. Although it is not mandatory, it is suggested to register a business if you are entering into the market to do export of food products business. Have a registered business entity, such as a Private Limited Company, Partnership, or LLP, for legal operations. There are other options as well like One Person Company, Partnership firm etc. it completely depends on the business owners and the requirement of the business under which form a business should be registered.
Obtain Central FSSAI Registration
On the export food businesses Central FSSAI License Registration will be applicable. Generally there are three types of Food License under the FSS Act of 2006 but on export food business Central Food license is applicable. Turnover of the business or any other thing doesn’t matter if you are doing export of food products, it is compulsory to obtain Central FSSAI License. Obtain FSSAI registration or license, which ensures that the food products comply with safety standards, so that they can be exported from India easily.
Import-Export Code (IEC)
IEC stands for Import and Export Code, as was previously mentioned. Every businessman whose main transactions involve import and export activity through India must obtain it. Its ten-digit code number serves as a representation of the company. One cannot export food products from India without IEC registration. Hence you must obtain this registration to do export of food products from India.
Quality Certification
In the business of food one thing which is very necessary to maintain is quality. In order to assure that the food which you are exporting from India is up to the quality which is demanded you must obtain the quality certificates which ensure that the food products meet the quality standards and obtain necessary certifications like ISO, HACCP, or other relevant certifications.
Compliance with Labeling Regulations
Adhere to labeling regulations, providing information such as ingredients, nutritional facts, and expiration dates as per FSSAI guidelines. Follow standardized packaging norms to maintain the quality and safety of food products during transportation. Complete customs formalities and submit required documents for customs clearance, including the Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and others.
Documentation
In any business one of the most important things is documentation, hence the owner of the export food business must maintain proper documentation related to the business. Maintain proper documentation, including the Certificate of Origin, health certificate, and any specific documents required by the importing country.
Product Registration
There are certain requirements of the import country as well. Thus if you are thinking about exporting food products from India to any other country you must check the requirements of that country as well as where you want to export. Some countries may require specific product registrations; hence, check and complete any necessary registrations in the target market.
Export Inspection Council (EIC)
In order to do export of any products there are certain export standards which one needs to fulfill. Without fulfilling these standards one cannot export food products from India to any other country in the world. For certain food products, approval from the Export Inspection Council may be required to ensure compliance with export standards. Hence you must check the product which you are thinking about exporting.
Some Miscellaneous Needs
Market research is necessary in order to understand the demand, preferences, and regulations of the target market for your specific food products. Ensure smooth financial transactions by using internationally accepted payment methods, and comply with any financial regulations applicable to international trade.
What is the Process to do Export of Food Products from India?
The process of doing export of food products from India is given below:
- Register your food business as a legal entity, such as a Private Limited Company, Partnership, or LLP.
- Ensure your food products meet quality standards and obtain relevant certifications like ISO, HACCP, etc. and other relevant licenses and registrations
- Choose the food products you intend to export based on market demand and regulations.
- Follow standardized packaging norms to maintain product quality during transportation.
- Adhere to labeling regulations, including details like ingredients, nutritional facts, and expiry dates.
- For specific products, obtain approval from the Export Inspection Council to meet export standards.
- Complete customs formalities and submit necessary documents for customs clearance.
- Comply with SPS measures to meet sanitary and phytosanitary requirements of the importing country.
- Maintain proper documentation, including the Certificate of Origin, health certificate, and other required documents.
- Choose reliable logistics partners and transportation methods for safe and timely delivery.
- Familiarize yourself with import regulations of the target country, including any restrictions or prohibitions.
- Use internationally accepted payment methods and comply with financial regulations for international trade.
- Build a network of distributors, agents, or partners in the target market for effective business operations.
- Develop a market entry strategy, considering factors like pricing, distribution, and promotional activities.
Conclusion
Export of food products from India involves navigating through a series of legal requirements and key considerations to ensure compliance with international standards. From obtaining necessary registrations like FSSAI and IEC to adhering to quality certifications and labeling regulations, the process demands meticulous attention. The emphasis on maintaining product quality, complying with sanitary measures, and completing documentation underscores the commitment required for successful export ventures. Additionally, understanding the target market, building a reliable network, and staying updated on regulations contribute to the complexities involved. While India is renowned for its food exports globally, aspiring exporters must tread carefully, recognizing the importance of meeting both domestic and international standards for a thriving and responsible export food business.
