How to Export Seeds from India to Foreign Markets?

India’s seed export sector is expanding due to its wide range of agro-climatic zones and skilled farming community. The country supplies various seeds, which include vegetable, spice, and oilseed varieties, to international markets. In this article, you will learn about how to export seeds from India, the top export destination and more.

Overview of the Seed Exporting Industry:

India stands as a significant player in the global seed market. Its diverse climate supports the cultivation of various seeds. It includes cereals, pulses, vegetables, and oilseeds. The country's seed industry has evolved with advancements in biotechnology and research, which in turn enhance seed quality and yield. Indian seed companies have established a presence in international markets, with their supply to regions in Asia, Africa, and beyond. Government initiatives and policies have facilitated the export process. It also ensures compliance with international standards. The industry's growth contributes to India's economy and supports global agricultural productivity.

Major Export Destination of Indian Seeds:

Listed below are the major export destinations of Indian seeds:

How to Export Seeds from India

Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to exporting seeds from India:

Step 1: Select the Right Seed

To export seeds successfully from India, it is crucial to select the right seeds. You need to choose seeds that are in demand in your target market and ensure they meet the importing country’s agricultural standards. Research market trends and consult agricultural experts to understand local preferences and regulations.

You should also ensure that the seeds are free from pests and diseases, as countries have specific import requirements. This will improve your chances of a successful export and assist you in making well-informed selections.

Step 2: Obtain Necessary Certifications

To export seeds, you need certifications that confirm their quality and origin. Certification helps you ensure that the seeds are free from pests and diseases and meet biosecurity requirements. You also need a certificate to verify that the seeds are of Indian origin and ensure compliance with trade regulations. Details are mentioned later. 

Step 3: Register with the Relevant Authorities

To start exporting seeds, register your business with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and obtain an Importer Exporter Code (IEC). This code is essential for all exporters in India and is required to legally trade across borders.

You must register with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in addition to the IEC. This registration helps you access resources, support, and market insights that can guide you through the export process and increase your success.

Step 4: Comply with Packaging and Labelling Standards

To adhere to packaging and labelling regulations, select packaging that will shield the seeds from harm while in transit. The materials should keep the seeds safe from moisture, pests, and temperature changes. Label your packages with clear and accurate information such as the seed variety, batch number, and expiration date. This helps to keep track and ensures transparency.

Make sure your labels meet the requirements of both Indian regulations and those of the destination country, which includes language and information specifics. Proper packaging and labelling increase the chances of smooth customs clearance and market acceptance.

Step 5. Arrange for Quality Testing

You should have your seeds tested at accredited laboratories to check their germination rates and purity levels. This ensures the seeds meet quality standards and are free from contaminants. Proper seed testing helps to build trust with international buyers. It also ensures compliance with the importing country’s requirements.

Other than that, you also need to verify the quality of the seeds to reduce the risk of rejection or legal problems. This step is important to maintain a good reputation and success in your export business.

Step 6: Choose a Reliable Logistics Partner

While you select a logistics company, make sure to choose the one with expertise in handling agricultural exports. Look for a company familiar with the specific needs of seeds, such as temperature control, humidity regulation, and safe packaging. Check their experience in managing international shipments, especially customs clearance, to ensure smooth transit across borders.

A reliable logistics provider should handle storage carefully to prevent any damage or spoilage of the seeds. Efficient transportation ensures that your seeds arrive on time, and their quality is maintained. Proper handling during transit is essential to avoid damage and preserve seed viability for the destination market.

Step 7: Prepare and Submit Export Documentation

You need to gather essential documents for your seed export, which include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and insurance certificate. The commercial invoice shows the value of seeds, while the packing list details the contents. The bill of lading confirms shipment ownership, and the insurance certificate protects goods during transit. Once you have collected the documents, you need to submit them to the relevant authorities and your logistics partner to ensure a smooth export process.

Step 8: Monitor the Shipment

Track your shipment regularly to ensure it is on schedule and reaches its destination as planned. When you monitor the shipment, it helps you to identify any delays or issues that may arise. Stay in contact with your logistics partner throughout the journey to solve problems immediately. If something goes wrong during transit, you can address it immediately to avoid further complications. Once the shipment arrives, confirm with the buyer that they have received the goods in good condition.

Documents Compliance to Export Seeds from India:

While exporting seeds from India, you will need several documents to ensure a smooth export process. Listed below are the documents required to export seeds from India:

1. Exporter Registration: To export seeds from India, you need an Importer Exporter Code (IEC). This is one of the most important codes for all export activities. You can apply online for the export process through the official DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) portal. Once obtained, the IEC remains valid for life. While applying, you need to ensure that the information on the application is accurate to avoid delays.
2. Phytosanitary Certificate: This certificate confirms the seeds are clean, healthy, and free from pests or diseases. It ensures they meet international plant health standards. It ensures the seeds meet the plant health standards of the importing country. The Plant Quarantine Division under the Ministry of Agriculture issues this certificate. It is essential for seed exports to most countries. The certificate guarantees the seeds' compliance with international agricultural regulations.
3. Certificate of Origin: The Certificate of Origin confirms that the seeds are from India, ensuring their authenticity. The importing country requires this certificate to confirm the source of the goods. The Chamber of Commerce issues this certificate. It helps to comply with trade regulations and facilitates customs clearance. It also builds trust with buyers and ensures a smooth export process.
4. Germination Test Report: The Germination Test Report verifies the seed’s germination rate. It must be obtained from an accredited laboratory. It also creates buyer trust and allows the export process to move without issues. It is necessary for compliance with both Indian and the importing country regulations.
5. Bill of Lading: The shipping company issues the Bill of Lading. It confirms that the seeds have been shipped and are in transit. This document serves as proof of shipment and helps track the cargo. It also outlines the terms and conditions of transport.
6. Commercial Invoice: The Commercial Invoice gives complete details of the seed export deal. It shows the names of the buyer and seller, product type, quantity, price, and terms of sale. Customs officials use it to check the shipment’s value and clear it smoothly. It acts as proof of the transaction and ensures legal and transparent trade between you and the buyer.
7. Packing List: The Packing List shows a clear breakdown of the shipment’s contents. It shows how the seeds are packed, the number of units, the packaging type, and the total weight. This helps customs and logistics teams verify the shipment and handle it correctly. It also supports smooth inspection and reduces delays during transportation.
8. Insurance Certificate: The Insurance Certificate safeguards your shipment against possible risks like damage, theft, or loss during transit. It ensures you don’t face financial losses if something goes wrong. Many buyers also prefer insured shipments, as it shows professionalism and commitment to secure delivery. This document is often required during customs clearance and while claiming compensation.
9. Customs Declaration: The Customs Declaration confirms that your seed shipment follows all export laws and includes accurate details for customs clearance. You must submit it with the required documents, duties, and taxes to Indian customs. This step prevents delays, avoids penalties, and ensures your goods legally exit the country. Accurate details in the declaration also help smooth processing at the destination port.

Other Compliance to Export Seeds from India:

To export seeds from India successfully, you must follow several additional legal and quality compliances beyond basic documentation. Listed below are a few of the additional compliances that a seed exporter needs to follow:

1. Seed Certification: Seed certification under the Seeds Act, 1966, proves that the seeds meet set standards for purity and germination. It helps you to meet export regulations and gain buyers' trust.
2. APEDA Registration (if applicable): When you register with APEDA gives you export support if your seeds are listed under its category. It offers market assistance, training, and access to government export benefits.
3. Destination Country Regulations: Each country has specific agricultural import laws regarding seed varieties, treatment, and quality. It’s important to research and comply with these regulations to ensure successful export.
4. Labelling Standards: You need to ensure that the seed packets comply with both Indian and the importing country's labelling standards. The label should mention seed variety, lot number, net weight, and expiry date for accurate identification.
5. Packaging Norms: You need to choose durable, tamper-proof, and moisture-resistant packaging to protect seed quality during transit. You should also ensure that the packaging meets global standards to prevent damage and maintain seed viability throughout shipping.
6. Environment and Safety Compliance: Certain countries require proof that seeds are grown using sustainable, eco-friendly, and safe farming practices. This ensures environmental safety and matches the agricultural standards set by the importing country.

Role of APEDA in seed export:

APEDA plays a significant role in supporting and promoting seed exports from India. Below is a list to help you understand the role of APEDA in seed export:

1. Guidance and Support

APEDA offers guidance to exporters about compliance with export regulations. It helps in understanding required documents, certifications, and guidelines necessary for exporting seeds. APEDA also provides information on market trends and customer expectations to support successful exports.

2. Export Schemes

APEDA facilitates various export schemes to help exporters. These schemes assist in reducing the cost of export activities and provide financial support to help exporters expand their reach. APEDA ensures exporters have access to all relevant schemes to enhance their business.

3. Certification Assistance

APEDA helps exporters with certification processes required for seed exports. It ensures that seeds meet the quality standards of the importing country. APEDA assists in getting the necessary certifications, such as organic certification or phytosanitary certificates.

4. Market Promotion

APEDA plays a key role in promoting Indian seeds in international markets. It organises trade fairs, events, and international buyer-seller meetings to assist exporters in connecting with potential buyers. APEDA also offers marketing support to increase the visibility of Indian products globally.

5. Compliance Monitoring

APEDA monitors exporter compliance with government standards and international regulations, ensuring that exported seeds meet quality, safety, and environmental guidelines. APEDA helps maintain the reputation of Indian exports with its strict adherence to rules and regulations.

6. Access to Information

APEDA provides exporters with access to valuable market research and data on trends, pricing, and demand for seeds in different international markets. It helps exporters make informed decisions on which markets to target and what types of seeds to export.

7. Financial Support and Incentives

 APEDA offers financial support through various schemes, grants, and incentives aimed at reducing the financial burden of exporting. This support helps exporters invest in quality control, packaging, and shipping to meet international standards.

Government Scheme to Support the Export of Seeds:

The Government of India has implemented several schemes to support the export of seeds. Listed below are the key initiatives:

1. Sub-Mission on Seeds and Planting Material (SMSP): This scheme aims to increase the production of certified and quality seeds, upgrade the quality of farm-saved seeds, and strengthen the seed multiplication chain. It encourages the adoption of new technologies in seed production, processing, and testing while modernizing infrastructure for seed production, storage, certification, and quality control.
2. Seed Export-Import (SeedEXIM) System: The SeedEXIM portal manages the export and import of seeds and planting materials under the Export and Import (EXIM) Policy. India's participation in the OECD Seed Schemes facilitates standardised seed certification for global trade.
3. Export Development and Promotion Scheme: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) administers the Export Development and Promotion Scheme. This scheme supports exporters to adopt high-end processing technologies and upgrade existing technologies for value addition. It also helps them to meet international food safety standards.

Conclusion

India’s seed export industry is on the rise due to its rich agricultural diversity, strong global demand, and supportive government initiatives. If you are wondering how to export seeds from India, it’s essential to follow the right procedures to ensure compliance with international regulations.

To simplify the complexities and ensure smooth export operations, you need a trusted and secure platform. Among various service providers, Online Legal India stands out as one of the most trusted and secure platforms. Their expert team helps with everything from registration to certification and offers comprehensive support for seed exporters.