Export Readiness Checker

Essential export documents: IEC (Import Export Code) from DGFT — mandatory first step, GST registration, Shipping Bill (customs clearance), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin (for preferential duty under FTAs), Letter of Credit for payment security, and product-specific certificates (FSSAI for food, BIS for electronics, Drug Licence for pharma).

Key schemes: RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) — replaces MEIS, ECGC (Export Credit Guarantee Corporation) for payment risk insurance, Market Development Assistance (MDA) for participation in international trade fairs, Interest Equalisation Scheme for subsidised export credit, and APEDA support for agricultural food exporters.

Best channels for Indian MSMEs: India Trade Portal (tradeindia.com, indiamart.com for international buyers), participation in FIEO-organised buyer-seller meets, embassy trade desks in target countries, B2B platforms (Alibaba.com, Global Sources), government sponsored trade fairs abroad, and diaspora Indian business community connections in target markets.

Food exports require: FSSAI Licence, APEDA registration for agricultural products, BRC Global Standard or HACCP certification for EU and USA buyers, Halal certification for Middle East markets, Organic certification for premium markets, and product-specific import requirements of the destination country which vary significantly.

Exports are zero-rated under GST — you pay 0% GST on exported goods and services. You can either export under Bond/Letter of Undertaking without paying IGST and claim input tax credit refund, or pay IGST and claim refund after export. LUT route is simpler and preferred by most exporters. IGST paid on inputs used in exported goods is refundable.