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A Step-by-Step Guide to Start an Import-Export Business in India

By Tata Capital
29 December 2025
11 mins read
2249

India is a land of opportunities. The country is rich in resources and has massive potential for growth. With the right moves, India can be a significant player in the global market. The import-export business is one of the most lucrative businesses in India. The industry offers excellent opportunities for those looking to start their own business. However, creating an import-export business takes work. Starting a business requires several steps. This blog post discusses starting an Indian import-export business. We will also discuss how to succeed in business.

Why India is a Good Country for Import-Export Business?

India is a good country for import-export business for several reasons:

India’s large population creates a big market for goods and services.
India has a diverse economy, with many sectors offering business opportunities to trade.
India has a favorable business environment, with a supportive government and infrastructure.
India is strategically located, with easy access to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East markets.

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How To Start Import-Export Business In India

Business Registration: Register your business entity with the Registrar of Companies (ROC).
IEC Acquisition: Obtain an IEC number from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
Business Bank Account: Open a dedicated bank account for your import-export business.
DIPP License: Secure a license from the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP).
EDAI Registration: Register with the Export Development Authority of India (EDAI).

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The Process of Import and Export

The process of import and export can be broadly divided into two categories: the first is the basic import-export process, which includes finding buyers and sellers, negotiating prices, and arranging for shipping; the second is the regulatory process, which includes applying for licenses, complying with safety and security regulations, and paying tariffs.

The basic process of importing and exporting is pretty simple: buyers and sellers find each other through online marketplaces or offline networks, negotiate prices, and set up shipping. The most important part of this process is making sure that everyone involved is legit and trustworthy. If not, there is a chance that fraud or scams will happen.

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Documentation Required for Import and Export Business

Documentation is an essential part of any business, but it is crucial for companies that deal with import and export. Some documents must be in place before an import or export business can begin operating.

The first step is to go to the Customs Department and get a Business Identification Number (BIN). This number will be on everything that has to do with the business.

Next, you must obtain an Import Export Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). This code is required to import or export any goods or services.

You can start working on your business plan once you have your BIN and IEC. This plan should include details about what goods or services you want to bring in or send out, as well as how you will move them.

Once your business plan is done, you must register your company with the Registrar of Companies (ROC). This process of getting registered will be different in each state where you do business.

You will need to get a Certificate of Registration from the DGFT after you have registered your company. With this certificate, you can bring goods into or out of the country without having to pay customs duties.

Finally, if you want to trade foreign currency, you need an RBI licence. This licence lets you trade foreign currency freely.

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Tips for Success in Import-Export Business

Assuming you have already decided to venture into the import-export business, here are a few tips that will help you succeed in this field:

Do your homework: Before starting a business, it’s important to do your research and know a lot about the field you’re going into. This is true for the business of importing and exporting as well. Know the trends in international trade, the rules that apply, and the possible opportunities and problems.
Develop a niche: Once you know how the import-export business works, you can find a niche to focus on. It could be a certain product, service, market, area, or region. Focusing on one place will help you stand out from the crowd and make it easier to become an expert in that area.
Build relationships: Relationships are essential in any business, especially import-export. Developing solid relationships with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders will help you succeed in this business.
Stay organized and efficient: Because importing and exporting goods requires a lot of paperwork, your business must be well-organized and run smoothly. Set up systems and procedures to make sure your business works well.
Be responsive to change: Due to changes in international trade rules, currency fluctuations, etc., the business of importing and exporting is always changing. So, it’s important to be adaptable and open to change so that you can quickly change how your business works.

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Low-Investment Strategies for Starting an Import-Export Business

Starting an import-export business in India can be lucrative even with limited capital if approached strategically. Careful planning, resource optimisation, and leveraging affordable tools can help entrepreneurs establish a foothold in global trade without heavy investments.

Identify high-demand products: Focus on products that are lightweight, non-perishable, and have steady demand internationally. Conduct market research to find niches with low competition and high potential margins to minimise initial investment risks.

Leverage online marketplaces: Platforms like IndiaMART, Alibaba, and TradeIndia allow new businesses to reach international buyers without setting up physical infrastructure. Listing products online reduces costs and provides visibility to potential clients globally.

Use third-party logistics and warehousing: Outsourcing warehousing and shipping can eliminate the need for owning storage facilities. Collaborating with reliable logistics partners ensures timely delivery and reduces operational expenses.

Register with government schemes: Government initiatives such as Export Promotion Councils and schemes under DGFT can provide subsidies, financial support, and guidance for new exporters, lowering the investment burden.

Start with small consignments: Begin with small orders to build credibility with suppliers and buyers. This approach limits financial exposure while providing practical learning experience for scaling the import-export business over time.

By following these strategies, aspiring entrepreneurs can gradually expand their operations, gain international market insights, and achieve sustainable growth while keeping initial investments low.

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Government Schemes and Funding Options for Exporters

Government support can boost an import-export business in India by reducing costs, managing risks, and enhancing competitiveness, making it easier for exporters to grow. Here are key government schemes and funding options for exporters:

Duty Exemption and Remission Schemes

These schemes ensure exporters avoid paying duties on inputs or receive refunds on taxes already paid, making products competitive internationally.

Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP): Refunds unrefunded central, state, and local duties embedded in exported goods.

Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL): Provides rebates for apparel and made-ups sectors, reducing production costs.

Advance Authorisation (AA) Scheme: Allows duty-free import of inputs incorporated into final export products.

Duty-Free Import Authorisation (DFIA) Scheme: Permits post-export duty-free import of inputs via transferable duty credit scrips.

Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme: Supports duty-free import of capital goods with export obligations to upgrade production.

Duty Drawback (DBK) Scheme: Refunds customs and excise duties paid on inputs used in exported goods.

Financial and Credit Support

These options improve liquidity, reduce credit costs, and protect against non-payment risks.

Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES): Provides interest subvention on pre- and post-shipment rupee export credit.

Credit Guarantee Scheme for Exporters (CGSE): Offers 100% credit guarantee coverage for MSMEs seeking working capital.

NIRVIK Scheme: Provides high insurance cover up to 90% at reduced premiums for small exporters.

Export Factoring: Offers working capital financing, credit risk protection, and export receivables collection for MSMEs.

Also, read – Top Government Schemes for Startups and MSMEs in India

Legal and Regulatory Requirements for Indian Exporters

Government regulations are essential for an import-export business in India, ensuring compliance, smooth cross-border trade, and easier access to global markets. Here are the key requirements:

Importer Exporter Code (IEC): A unique 10-digit IEC issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is mandatory for all export and import activities. No exporter can legally move goods across borders without this code as it is crucial for customs clearance and international transactions.

Business Entity Registration: Before international trade, you must register your business as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP or company. This registration provides legal identity and enables compliance with tax and trade norms.

PAN and GST Registration: A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is required for tax purposes and legal identification, while GST registration allows exporters to benefit from zero-rated supplies and claim refunds on input taxes.

Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC): Obtaining an RCMC from an export promotion council or commodity board enables access to export incentives and duty benefits under India’s Foreign Trade Policy.

Product-Specific Licences and Standards: Certain products require specific certifications or approvals such as FSSAI, BIS or APEDA to meet regulatory quality and safety standards for export markets.

Customs Documentation and Compliance: Exporters must file accurate shipping documents including commercial invoices, packing lists and bills of lading to satisfy customs and regulatory authorities for international shipment clearance.

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Choosing the Right Business Structure

Choosing the right structure is essential when starting an import-export business in India, as it impacts compliance, taxation, scalability, and long term stability.

Sole Proprietorship: This structure suits small exporters with limited capital and simple operations. It offers easy setup and full control, though personal liability remains high.

Partnership Firm: A partnership allows shared investment, responsibilities, and expertise. It works well when multiple promoters contribute capital or market knowledge, but liabilities are jointly borne.

Limited Liability Partnership: An LLP combines operational flexibility with limited liability protection. It is suitable for exporters seeking credibility while keeping compliance relatively manageable.

Private Limited Company: This structure supports scalability and stronger market trust. It enables easier access to funding from lenders and is ideal for businesses planning long term expansion.

Choosing the right structure early strengthens compliance and growth prospects for an import-export business, ensuring smoother transitions as operations scale internationally.

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How to Obtain an Import-Export Code (IEC) in India

An Import Export Code, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, is mandatory for starting an import-export business in India, as it ensures legal cross border trade and smooth customs clearance. Here are the key steps involved in obtaining an IEC.

Check eligibility and prerequisites: Any individual or business entity engaged in international trade can apply. A valid PAN linked to the applicant is essential before starting the process.

Register on the DGFT portal: Create an account on the DGFT website using PAN details and basic business information to begin the application.

Complete the IEC application: Fill in the online form with business details, address proof, and director or proprietor information to ensure accuracy.

Upload required documents: Submit PAN, identity proof, address proof, and a cancelled cheque or Lender certificate for verification.

Pay the application fee and submit: After online payment, submit the application. Once approved, the IEC is issued digitally and can be used across the export and import business without renewal.

Conclusion

Starting an import-export business in India can be a great way to get your feet wet in international trade. Following the tips outlined in this article can give you a head start and increase your chances of success. So what are you waiting for? Get started today and see where your new business takes you!

If you are looking to raise or borrow money to start an Import-Export business in India, do visit Tata Capital’s business loan to meet your financing needs for your business.

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FAQs

How to start an import-export business in India without investment?

You can begin by learning how to start import export business without investment through online marketplaces, dropshipping models, government registrations, and third party logistics, avoiding inventory and infrastructure costs.

What is the minimum investment required to start an export business in India?

The minimum investment is typically ₹40,000 to ₹1 Lakh, covering business registration, IEC application, basic compliance, and initial setup, without the need for large capital or physical infrastructure.

Which documents are mandatory for export businesses in India?

Mandatory documents include Importer Exporter Code, PAN, GST registration, business registration proof, and essential shipping documents required for customs clearance and regulatory compliance.

How long does it take to register an import-export business in India?

Registration generally takes 3 to 5 working days, depending on timely document submission, verification, and approvals for IEC, GST, and business entity registration processes.

What are the top export products from India with high profitability?

High profit export categories include textiles, handicrafts, spices, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, and agricultural products within the export and import business landscape.

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