Step By Step Process To Start Turmeric Export from India

India is the world’s largest producer and exporter of turmeric, dominating global markets such as the USA, UAE, Bangladesh, Iran, and Malaysia.

As per the reports from the Spice Board of India, India exported turmeric worth 341.54million US$, making it one of the most profitable agricultural export commodities. With rising global demand for organic and curcumin-rich turmeric, this is the perfect time to explore the export market.

Before beginning, it’s important to understand how the export process works.

Exporting turmeric from India involves several stages, including obtaining licenses, ensuring quality standards, packaging, logistics, and finding international buyers.

Each step plays a crucial role in ensuring your product meets global standards and reaches the market safely.

Key Takeaways/overview:

• India is the world’s leading turmeric producer and exporter, accounting for over 70% of global supply.

• To start exporting, you must register your company, obtain an IEC, APEDA, FSSAI, and GST licenses.

• Maintaining quality standards like low moisture and high curcumin levels is essential for acceptance in foreign markets.

• Proper packaging and labeling protect turmeric quality during transit and meet international regulations.

• Logistics planning, export documentation, and coordination with freight agents ensure smooth shipments.

• Finding genuine buyers through trade portals, exhibitions, and export directories is key to growth.

• Starting small, maintaining transparency, and delivering quality builds a reliable brand reputation.

Let’s go through each turmeric export process stage one by one.

Step 1. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Registrations

You cannot start exporting without proper legal registrations. These licenses ensure that your business is recognized and authorized by Indian export authorities.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Company Registration – Register your business as a proprietorship, partnership, or private limited company.

2. Import Export Code (IEC) – This is a mandatory code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Without it, you cannot export any goods.

3. APEDA Registration – The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) registration is required for exporting agricultural items such as turmeric.

4. GST Registration – Register under GST to comply with Indian tax laws.

5. FSSAI License – If your turmeric is intended for food use, this license ensures food safety compliance.

   
   

Once you have these registrations, your business is legally ready to start exporting turmeric.

Step 2. Ensure Quality and Safety Compliance

Global buyers prefer turmeric that meets international quality standards. Poor quality or contamination can lead to rejection at ports, so maintaining quality is crucial.

Make sure your turmeric meets the following standards:

• Moisture Content: Ideally below 10 percent.

• Curcumin Content: Higher curcumin means better quality and demand.

• Clean and Polished: Turmeric should be properly dried and cleaned before export.

• Free from Adulteration: Avoid using artificial colors or chemicals.

You may also need certifications such as:

• Organic Certification (if selling organic turmeric)

• Phytosanitary Certificate (issued by the Plant Quarantine Department)

• Laboratory Test Reports confirming purity and curcumin level
  

Following these standards builds trust and long-term relationships with buyers.

Step 3. Choose the Right Type and Form of Turmeric

Turmeric is exported in different forms depending on market demand. Choosing the right type ensures better pricing and acceptance in target countries.

Common export forms include:

• Whole Turmeric Fingers

• Turmeric Powder

• Turmeric Slices

• Turmeric Oleoresin and Curcumin Extracts

  
  

Before exporting, research which form of turmeric is preferred in your target market. For example, the Middle East prefers whole turmeric, while the USA and Europe often demand powder or extracts.

Step 4. Packaging Requirements for Turmeric Export

Proper packaging is essential to maintain freshness, prevent contamination, and meet export regulations.

Follow these key packaging practices:

• Use food-grade materials such as laminated pouches, jute bags with inner liners, or HDPE bags.

• Keep packaging moisture-proof and air-tight to avoid fungal growth.

• Mention all details on the label, such as product name, grade, weight, batch number, country of origin, and exporter details.

• Follow international labeling norms and destination country requirements.

  
  

For bulk export, use strong, stackable packaging suitable for long-distance transportation. You can also vacuum-seal turmeric powder for better shelf life.

Also read: Turmeric Export from India: The Ultimate Guide

Step 5. Logistic and Shipping Planning

Once packaging is complete, logistics become the next major step. Efficient logistics ensure that the product reaches the buyer safely and on time.

You can ship turmeric by sea or air, depending on your budget and urgency. Sea shipping is more cost-effective for bulk orders, while air shipping is faster but expensive.

Before shipment, prepare the necessary export documents:

• Commercial Invoice

• Packing List

• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill

• Certificate of Origin

• Phytosanitary Certificate

• Insurance Certificate

  
  

Tie up with a reliable freight forwarder or CHA (Customs House Agent) to handle customs clearance, documentation, and coordination with shipping lines.

Step 6. Finding the Right International Buyers

Finding genuine buyers is one of the most crucial steps for a successful export business. Start by identifying markets where Indian turmeric has strong demand.

Here’s how you can find buyers:

• Register on export platforms such as IndiaMART, TradeIndia, Alibaba, and Global Sources.

• Join APEDA and Spice Board trade fairs to meet international importers.

• Build a professional website showcasing your product range and certifications.

• Use LinkedIn and B2B email outreach to connect with potential importers.

• Maintain transparency in pricing, quality, and delivery timelines to gain trust.

  
  

It’s always better to begin with smaller shipments and build relationships gradually.

Step 7. Decide on Payment and Trade Terms

Clearly define your payment and trade terms before exporting. Most exporters follow the International Commercial Terms, which define responsibilities between buyer and seller.

Common terms include:

• FOB (Free On Board) – You handle shipping till the goods are on board.

• CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) – You handle shipping, insurance, and freight.

• EXW (Ex Works) – Buyer arranges pickup from your premises.

  
  

Use secure payment methods such as advance payment, letter of credit (LC), or bank transfers to avoid risks.

Step 8. Ship and Track Your Export Order

After completing documentation and payment arrangements, dispatch the goods through your logistics partner.

Make sure you track the shipment and keep the buyer updated on delivery status. Once the goods reach, request a delivery confirmation from the importer.

After successful delivery, maintain all export records for future reference or audits.

Step 9. Build Long-Term Relationships and Scale Up

Once you’ve successfully completed your first shipment, focus on consistency. Delivering quality and reliability helps you build long-term partnerships.

You can expand by adding more turmeric varieties or exploring value-added products like turmeric oil, capsules, or herbal blends.

Promote your brand through digital marketing and participation in global trade exhibitions to reach new buyers and scale your business.

Conclusion

Starting a turmeric export business from India is a great opportunity to tap into the growing global demand for natural and healthy products.

By following the right process, maintaining quality standards, obtaining licenses, and ensuring efficient logistics, you can establish a successful and sustainable turmeric export venture.

With India’s reputation as the spice capital of the world, your turmeric export business can contribute to strengthening this legacy while building a profitable enterprise.