How to source agricultural products from India

Sourcing from India works well when the buyer and the supplier agree on the same product before money moves. These are the steps that make that agreement concrete.

1. Write the specification first

Decide the form or grade, the parameters that matter (moisture, purity, mesh, grade, microbiology), the packing and the quantity before you contact anyone. A supplier can only quote accurately against a specification. Our guide to what to include in an import enquiry gives a checklist.

2. Check the registrations that apply

Indian exporters need an Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT and GST registration. Food products need an FSSAI licence. Depending on the product, an exporter also registers with the relevant body: APEDA for many processed foods and herbal products, the Spices Board for scheduled spices such as tamarind, and the Coffee Board for coffee. Ask for the registration numbers and verify them on the official portals rather than relying on a copy.

3. Ask for a sample and a certificate of analysis

A sample lets you test the product in your own laboratory or an independent one. Ask for a certificate of analysis that is specific to the lot, and compare it with your own result. If the two disagree, ask why before going further.

4. Start with a trial

For a first order, a smaller trial shipment lets both sides verify the product, the packing, the documents and the communication. Move to full containers once the trial has gone well.

5. Agree the commercial terms

Settle the Incoterm, the price basis, the payment terms and the delivery window in writing. See FOB, CFR and CIF explained and how export pricing works. Payment terms for a new relationship are commonly advance payment, a letter of credit, or documents against payment, and the right choice depends on trust and the size of the order.

6. Plan inspection and testing

Decide who will inspect the goods before loading and which parameters will be tested. Independent inspection is common, and it protects both parties. See why third-party testing matters.

7. Check the documents before shipment

Review the draft commercial invoice, packing list, Certificate of Origin and any certificates your market requires before the cargo leaves, not after it arrives. See export documents explained.

If you want to start a conversation, send DVG an enquiry.

This article is general information for importers. It is not legal, customs, financial or regulatory advice. Requirements change, so confirm them with your customs broker, freight forwarder or the relevant authority before you ship.