Top 5 Things Buyers Must Know Before Importing from India
Top 5 Things International Buyers Should Know Before Importing from India
India has emerged as one of the world’s most dynamic sourcing hubs for agricultural commodities, food ingredients, textiles, engineering goods, and consumer products. With competitive pricing, a skilled workforce, and a strong export infrastructure, global buyers increasingly choose India as their preferred sourcing destination.
At Rudra Agri International, we work closely with importers across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Latin America—helping them procure high-quality agro products such as peanuts, sesame seeds, spices, pulses, and oilseed meals. Over the years, we’ve identified a few essential insights that every international buyer must know before starting imports from India.
In this article, we highlight the top 5 things international buyers should know to ensure smooth business, transparent communication, and risk-free import operations.
1. Understand India’s Product Grades, Quality Standards & Specifications
India offers a wide range of products, but quality can vary significantly depending on region, processing methods, supplier standards, and seasonal factors. Understanding the specific grade you need is the first step toward successful sourcing.
Key Things Buyers Should Clarify:
- Product grades (A/B/C, Aflatoxin levels, machine-cleaned, sortex-cleaned, HPS, etc.)
- Moisture content requirements
- Purity levels (98%, 99%, 99.5% etc.)
- Count size for peanuts and seeds
- Pesticide residue limits
- Broken percentage and foreign material
Different countries also have different regulatory requirements. For example, Europe has strict aflatoxin limits, while Southeast Asia may follow different purity standards.
Pro Tip from Rudra Agri:
Always request a CoA (Certificate of Analysis), lab test report, and product photos/videos before finalising any order.
2. Choose Reliable Suppliers with Proven Export Track Records
India has thousands of exporters. While many are professional, some are inexperienced or operate without proper documentation. Working with the right partner protects you from shipment delays, quality disputes, and compliance risks.
What to Check Before Selecting a Supplier:
- Years of export experience
- GST, IEC & FSSAI certifications
- Factory visit or processing facility photos/videos
- Consistency in communication
- Strong references from existing buyers
- Ability to supply during peak season
Professional exporters like Rudra Agri ensure transparency, timely updates, and proper documentation throughout the supply chain.
3. Know the Logistics, Ports & Transit Times
India has strong export infrastructure with major ports such as:
- Mundra Port (Gujarat)
- Nhava Sheva / JNPT (Mumbai)
- Chennai Port
- Kolkata Port
- Tuticorin
- Kandla
Transit time will depend on the buyer’s location and shipping line availability.
Typical Transit Times:
- Middle East: 5–12 days
- South East Asia: 7–15 days
- Africa: 12–30 days
- Europe: 18–28 days
- USA: 26–45 days
Buyers should also be aware of container availability, seasonal port congestion, and freight fluctuations.
Pro Tip from Rudra Agri:
Always confirm freight rates at least 48–72 hours before booking, as rates can fluctuate weekly.
4. Understand Payment Terms & Documentation Requirements
The key to smooth international trade is proper financial clarity and documentation. India follows globally accepted trade terms under Incoterms 2020.
Common Payment Terms Used by Indian Exporters:
- Advance Payment (TT) – safest for exporters
- LC (Letter of Credit) – safest for buyers
- DP at Sight / CAD – documents released against payment
- DA 30/60/90 – credit terms (only trusted partners)
Key Documents Provided by Exporters:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading
- Phytosanitary Certificate
- Certificate of Origin
- Fumigation Certificate
- Lab Test Report (if needed)
Incorrect documentation can lead to customs rejection or penalties. This is why working with experienced exporters is essential.
5. Be Aware of Seasonal Price Movements & Market Trends
India’s agricultural commodities follow seasonal cycles. Prices can fluctuate based on:
- Harvest seasons
- Crop quality variations
- Weather conditions
- Local demand
- Global market trends
- Government policies
For example, peanuts, sesame, and groundnuts typically have fresh crop arrivals during specific months, leading to better pricing and quality during those periods.
Why This Matters:
- You can save significantly by sourcing during harvest months
- You avoid buying overpriced commodities during off-season
- You gain access to better quality and lower moisture lots
Pro Tip from Rudra Agri:
Buyers should discuss seasonal planning and annual contracts to secure stable pricing.
Final Thoughts
India offers immense opportunities for global buyers, thanks to its diverse product range, competitive pricing, and strong export capabilities. By choosing verified suppliers, understanding product grades, staying updated on logistics, and planning purchases around market trends, international buyers can maximise profitability and reduce risks.
At Rudra Agri International, we ensure complete transparency, reliable communication, and consistent product quality across all shipments. If you want to import peanuts, sesame seeds, spices, pulses, or animal-feed ingredients from India, get in touch with our export team today.