Step 1: Obtain Import Export Code (IEC)
IEC is mandatory for any exporter in India.
Apply through the DGFT portal:
👉 https://www.dgft.gov.in/
Required documents:
- PAN
- Aadhaar
- Bank details
- Business registration documents
Step 2: Register Your Business with APEDA
APEDA registration is required for exporters of agricultural and processed food products, including dry fruits.
How to Register:
- Visit: 👉 https://www.apeda.gov.in/
- Click “Register as Member”
- Fill business details
- Upload documents
- Pay the registration fee
Documents Needed:
- IEC Certificate
- PAN Card
- GST Certificate
- Bank Certificate / Cancelled Cheque
- Company Registration Documents
APEDA will issue an RCMC certificate, valid for 5 years.
Step 3: Select Nuts/Dry Fruits for Export
Popular categories include:
- Almonds
- Cashews
- Raisins
- Walnuts
- Pistachios
- Dates
- Figs
- Apricots
- Mixed dry fruit products
Identify the countries where demand is highest—Middle East, Europe, USA, and Southeast Asia.
Step 4: Ensure Quality Standards & Testing
Quality compliance is critical for nuts and dry fruits due to food safety regulations.
Tests may include:
- Aflatoxin testing
- Moisture analysis
- Grade & size classification
- Pesticide residue tests
- Microbiological testing
Testing should be performed at APEDA or NABL-approved laboratories.
Step 5: Focus on Packaging & Labelling Requirements
Export packaging must preserve freshness, prevent contamination, and meet international standards.
Packaging Materials:
- Vacuum packs
- Zip-lock pouches
- Food-grade plastic
- Aluminium laminated packs
- Bulk jute bags (for certain nuts)
Labels must include:
- Product name
- Net weight
- Batch number
- Country of origin
- Exporter details
- Manufacturing & expiry date
- Storage instructions
Each country may have unique labeling rules—ensure compliance.
Step 6: Find International Buyers or Distributors
You can find buyers through:
- B2B portals (Alibaba, Tradekey, Indiamart International)
- APEDA buyer-seller meets
- International food expos
- Social media & digital marketing campaigns
- Export houses
Build long-term relations for recurring orders.
Step 7: Prepare Export Documentation
Key export documents include:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Certificate of Origin
- Phytosanitary Certificate (for plant products)
- Fumigation Certificate
- Certificate of Quality from approved labs
- Insurance Certificate
- APEDA RCMC copy
Your CHA (Customs House Agent) can assist with documentation.
Step 8: Customs Clearance & Shipment
Log into the ICEGATE portal for customs filing.
Customs checks include:
- Quality compliance
- Packaging standards
- Documentation review
Once cleared, goods are shipped by:
- Air freight (faster, for premium dry fruits)
- Sea freight (cost-effective for bulk quantities)
Step 9: Post-Shipment Obligations
- Track shipment
- Share documents with foreign buyer
- Handle payment via LC, advance, or bank transfer
- Submit export returns (if required)
- Maintain batch-wise traceability
Benefits of Exporting Nuts and Dry Fruits
- High global demand
- Attractive profit margins
- Long shelf life
- Low storage and transport risk
- Government export incentives
Conclusion
Exporting nuts and dry fruits can be a highly profitable venture with consistent international demand. By following this step-by-step SavingMantra guide, exporters can easily set up the business, meet compliance requirements, ensure product quality, and successfully ship to global markets.
SavingMantra assists exporters with documentation, APEDA registration, lab testing support, buyer identification, and end-to-end export compliance.
Disclaimer
This blog provides general guidance based on publicly available export regulations and APEDA guidelines. Requirements, processes, and fees may change without notice. Exporters should verify the latest updates with government authorities or consult an export professional. SavingMantra is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or regulatory changes.