Food export has extra layers
Exporting food is rewarding but more demanding than domestic sales. On top of the usual export steps, food products must meet safety, labelling and certification requirements — both India's and those of the importing country. Getting these right keeps your shipments moving.
The foundation
Before exporting food, you typically need:
- An Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT
- FSSAI compliance appropriate for export
- GST registration where applicable
- Registration with the relevant export body for your product category
Certifications and documents
Food exports often require additional certificates depending on the product and destination, such as health or sanitary certificates and certificates of origin. The standard export documents — commercial invoice, packing list, shipping bill and transport documents — also apply.
Meet the importing country's standards
Each importing country has its own food safety, labelling and packaging rules. Your product and label may need adjustments to comply. Researching the destination's requirements before shipping avoids rejections at the border.
Plan for the practical details
Food is sensitive to time and temperature, so packaging, storage and logistics matter. Planning shelf-life, cold chain where needed, and reliable freight is part of exporting food successfully.
How Aidwish helps
Aidwish sets up your IEC and FSSAI export compliance, identifies the certifications your product and destination require, and guides you through export documentation — so your food reaches international markets smoothly.