India is the spice capital of the world, contributing over 75% of global spice varieties. From turmeric and cumin to cardamom and chili, Indian spices are highly sought after across the globe. If you’re looking to tap into this profitable market, this blog walks you through how to export spices from India—step-by-step.
🌿 Why Export Spices from India?
Global demand: Indian spices are in high demand in countries like the USA, UAE, UK, Germany, and Malaysia.
High profit margins: Good quality spices can fetch 2x to 5x more in international markets.
Growing health awareness: Natural and organic Indian spices are trending worldwide.
Government support: Export incentives and schemes like MEIS and RoDTEP promote spice exports.
✅ Step-by-Step Process to Export Spices from India
1. Register Your Business
To export legally, you must establish a registered business in India.
Register as Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, or Pvt Ltd.
Get GST Registration.
Open a current bank account for your business.
2. Apply for Import Export Code (IEC)
IEC is mandatory for any exporter in India.
Apply via the DGFT website.
Required documents: PAN card, business proof, address proof, canceled cheque.
3. Get FSSAI and Spice Board Registration
FSSAI License: Ensures food safety compliance.
Spice Board Certificate (CRES): Mandatory for spice exporters.
Visit indianspices.com
Submit required forms, lab tests, and fees.
4. Identify Your Target Market
Research the countries with high demand for specific spices (e.g., turmeric in the USA, cardamom in UAE).
Study import regulations, packaging norms, and labeling requirements for that country.
5. Source High-Quality Spices
You can either:
Cultivate and process your own spices.
Partner with trusted spice farmers or wholesale mandis in Erode, Guntur, or Kerala.
6. Packaging and Labeling
Packaging should be food-grade and export-compliant.
Label in the language required by the importing country.
Mention: Net weight, origin, expiry, ingredients, and certification labels (FSSAI, organic, etc.)
7. Find Buyers or Distributors
Ways to find spice buyers abroad:
B2B platforms like Alibaba, IndiaMART, TradeIndia
Participate in international food expos (e.g., Gulfood, SIAL)
Join spice export WhatsApp or Telegram groups
Promote through your own website or social media
8. Logistics and Shipping
Choose the right freight forwarder or export logistics partner.
Decide between air cargo (faster, costly) or sea freight (cheaper, slower).
Complete documentation: Invoice, packing list, bill of lading, FSSAI, Spice Board certificates.
9. Customs Clearance & Payment
Work with a CHA (Custom House Agent) for clearance.
Ensure payment via LC (Letter of Credit) or Advance Payment.
Exporters can use EXIM Bank services and insurance for international deals.
📦 Top Indian Spices to Export
| Spice | Major Producing States | Popular Export Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Turmeric | Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu | USA, Germany, Malaysia |
| Cumin | Gujarat, Rajasthan | UAE, UK, USA |
| Cardamom | Kerala, Karnataka | Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait |
| Red Chili | Andhra Pradesh, Telangana | Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, USA |
| Coriander | Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan | Europe, Middle East |
| Pepper | Kerala, Tamil Nadu | Canada, USA, Singapore |
💰 How Profitable is the Spice Export Business?
A 1 kg bag of turmeric bought at ₹120/kg in India can sell for ₹300–₹500 abroad.
Organic and cold-pressed spice powders fetch even higher prices.
Value-added products (like blended masalas or podis) have bigger margins.
🎯 Tips for New Spice Exporters
Focus on quality – buyers pay premium for purity and freshness.
Go for organic certification if targeting health-conscious markets.
Maintain proper documentation and compliance.
Start with small shipments to test waters before scaling.
🌐 Where to Buy Export-Ready Spices?
If you’re a buyer looking for authentic, export-quality masalas, check out MeenakshiRecipe.com – offering home-blended masalas and traditional spice mixes prepared with care and zero preservatives.
🧠 FAQs on Spice Export from India
Q: Can I export spices without FSSAI license?
No, FSSAI is mandatory for all food exports.
Q: Do I need a warehouse to export spices?
Not necessarily. You can buy, pack, and ship via third-party logistics.
Q: Can I start spice export from home?
Yes, if you’re selling small batches and meet quality, labeling, and packaging norms.
Q: How long does it take to start exporting?
It may take 1–2 months to complete all formalities and find buyers.
📢 Final Words
Spice export is one of the most promising opportunities in the Indian agro-food sector. With the right knowledge, quality control, and a good export strategy, you can build a profitable international business.
If you’re already in the food or spice business, now’s the time to go global!