Industry Trends and Analysis


India is one of the largest producers of fresh vegetables in the world — and global demand for Indian produce is only growing. From okra to green chili and from drumsticks to leafy greens, countries like the UAE, UK, and Saudi Arabia are eager importers. But how do you actually start a vegetable export business from India?

At GFE Business, we guide farmers, traders, and agri-entrepreneurs through every step of the export process — so they can turn their local harvest into global revenue.


Step 1: Register Your Business for Exports

To start exporting vegetables, you’ll need:

  • IEC (Import Export Code) from DGFT

  • GST Registration for your firm or business

  • FSSAI License for food-grade export

  • Current Account with AD code registration (with your bank)

Once you’re legally ready, you can move on to sourcing and compliance.


Step 2: Source Export-Grade Vegetables

Not all vegetables are suitable for export — buyers demand quality, consistency, and hygiene. Focus on:

  • Fresh, uniform produce (size, color, ripeness)

  • Cold chain logistics-ready crops (okra, capsicum, drumsticks)

  • Residue-free or organic certification (for EU & US markets)

If you’re a farmer, ensure GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) are followed. If you’re a trader, tie up with farms that meet these standards.


Step 3: Understand the Market Demand

Before you export, research where your vegetable is in demand. For example:

  • UAE & Saudi Arabia import green chillies, bitter gourd, cluster beans

  • UK & Germany import okra, ginger, curry leaves, eggplant

  • USA & Canada import drumsticks, tindora, and fresh coriander

Use tools like APEDA’s Agri Exchange, B2B platforms (e.g., Alibaba, Tradewheel) and buyer directories.


Step 4: Manage Packaging, Grading & Cold Chain

The shelf life of vegetables is short. Ensure:

  • Grading is done based on export standards

  • Packaging is breathable, reusable, or vacuum-sealed (for air cargo)

  • Cold chain is maintained till final delivery

  • Labels are printed as per destination country standards

This reduces rejection rates and increases your chances of getting repeat buyers.


Step 5: Choose Sea or Air Freight

Vegetables are mostly sent by:

  • Air cargo: Faster, costlier, ideal for leafy greens, okra, chillies

  • Reefer containers via sea: Cost-efficient for bulk items like potatoes, onions, frozen vegetables

Work with a freight forwarder who understands perishable cargo documentation, including phytosanitary certificates, COO, invoice, packing list, shipping bill, etc.


Step 6: Find Genuine Buyers

Use a combination of these channels:

  • B2B sites: Alibaba, TradeIndia, Global Sources

  • WhatsApp/Email prospecting using buyer lists

  • Exporter groups, trade expos, and APEDA events

  • LinkedIn + cold email with digital catalogs

Follow-up is key. Most exporters succeed after 3–5 buyer interactions.


How GFE Business Supports You

GFE Business has helped hundreds of first-time exporters start vegetable exports by offering:

  • Practical training with real formats

  • Documentation and setup support (IEC, FSSAI, AD Code)

  • Buyer search strategy + message templates

  • Ongoing mentorship for product selection & pricing

  • Local support in Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and beyond

We train you not just to learn — but to launch with clarity.


Final Words

Starting a vegetable export business from India can be one of the most profitable, low-investment ventures — if done with the right planning and product knowledge. From farm to foreign, it’s all about process, paperwork, and persistence.

Ready to export vegetables from India and grow your business globally?
Visit   www.gfebusiness.org and connect with real trade opportunities.