by - ✅ 1. Know Your Product: Types of Onions Exported from India
- ✅ 2. Check the Onion Export Policy & Restrictions
- ✅ 3. Get the Required Registrations & Licenses
- ✅ 4. Identify Your Target Market
- ✅ 5. Source Onions from Trusted Suppliers or Mandis
- ✅ 6. Packaging & Labeling for Export
- ✅ 7. Book Freight & Choose the Right Port
- ✅ 8. Required Documents for Onion Export
- ✅ 9. Find Buyers for Onion Exports
- ✅ 10. Get Paid Safely: Payment Terms for Onion Exports
- 🌍 Bonus Tips:
India is one of the largest exporters of onions in the world, thanks to its year-round cultivation, strong market demand, and vast production in states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka. If you’re a budding exporter looking to tap into this lucrative trade, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to export onions from India—from licensing to logistics.
✅ 1. Know Your Product: Types of Onions Exported from India
India exports different varieties of onions, including:
- Red Onions – High in demand in Southeast Asia and the Gulf.
- White Onions – Preferred in Europe and the USA.
- Shallots / Small Onions – Exported mostly to Malaysia, Singapore, and Sri Lanka.
Each variety has different shelf lives, moisture content, and packing needs. Ensure you know what your target country demands.
✅ 2. Check the Onion Export Policy & Restrictions
The onion export policy in India is dynamic and subject to change due to price fluctuations or domestic supply shortages.
🔍 Always check:
- DGFT Notifications for the latest updates
- Whether onion exports are currently under:
- Free (No restriction)
- Prohibited (Banned)
- Restricted (Requires special license or MEP – Minimum Export Price)
Visit the DGFT website for real-time policy status.
✅ 3. Get the Required Registrations & Licenses
To export onions, you need the following:
- Import Export Code (IEC) – Apply via DGFT portal.
- GST Registration – For tax compliance.
- APEDA Registration – Mandatory for agricultural exports. Visit apeda.gov.in.
- FSSAI License – If exporting to countries with strict food safety laws.
✅ 4. Identify Your Target Market
India exports onions mainly to:
- Bangladesh
- Malaysia
- Sri Lanka
- UAE
- Vietnam
- Indonesia
- Saudi Arabia
Do market research to understand demand, price trends, and shipping preferences.
✅ 5. Source Onions from Trusted Suppliers or Mandis
Source your onions from:
- Nashik APMCs (Lasalgaon, Pimpalgaon) – Asia’s largest onion market.
- Private packers/exporters in Maharashtra, Gujarat, or Karnataka.
Ensure the produce is:
- Graded properly (sizes 25mm–55mm+)
- Free from rot and damage
- Suitable for long-distance shipping
✅ 6. Packaging & Labeling for Export
Standard packaging:
- Mesh/HDPE/Jute Bags – 5kg, 10kg, 25kg, 50kg
- Ventilated bags for breathability
- Clearly printed labels with product name, net weight, origin, exporter details, etc.
Use fumigation & pre-cooling if required by the importing country.
✅ 7. Book Freight & Choose the Right Port
Major ports used for onion exports:
- JNPT (Mumbai)
- Mundra Port (Gujarat)
- Chennai Port (For South India traders)
Choose between Reefer Containers or Open Ventilated Containers depending on transit time and destination climate.
✅ 8. Required Documents for Onion Export
Ensure you prepare the following:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Phytosanitary Certificate (from PQ department)
- Certificate of Origin (COO)
- APEDA Certificate
- Fumigation Certificate (if applicable)
- Importer’s requirements (Halal, FDA, etc.)
✅ 9. Find Buyers for Onion Exports
You can find buyers through:
- B2B Portals like Alibaba, IndiaMART, TradeIndia
- International Trade Fairs
- Indian Embassies Abroad
- Paid B2B Leads / Export Promotion Councils (FIEO, APEDA)
Offer competitive pricing, timely delivery, and consistent quality to retain buyers.
✅ 10. Get Paid Safely: Payment Terms for Onion Exports
Recommended payment terms:
- Advance Payment (for first-time deals)
- Letter of Credit (LC)
- Documents Against Payment (D/P)
Use export credit insurance from ECGC for protection against defaults.
🌍 Bonus Tips:
- Keep track of onion MEP notifications from DGFT & APEDA.
- Ensure your cargo is well ventilated to avoid spoilage.
- Be ready for seasonal price fluctuations and government restrictions.
Conclusion
Exporting onions from India can be highly profitable if done right. With proper licensing, reliable sourcing, and compliance with export norms, you can grow a sustainable agri-export business. Always stay updated with government policies, and focus on building strong buyer relationships.
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