Starting an export company in India can be your gateway to global business success. With India’s trade policies becoming more entrepreneur-friendly and the global demand for Indian products steadily growing, there’s no better time to dive into international trade.
But before you start shipping goods worldwide, one of the most important steps is to register your export business properly. This ensures your business is legal, trustworthy, and eligible for various government schemes, export incentives, and global partnerships.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to register your export company in India, including legal procedures, documents, and smart tips from the field.
1: Choose Your Business Structure
First things first, decide how you want to register your business. The right structure depends on your business goals, investment, and future vision.
You can choose from:
- Sole Proprietorship – Ideal for small, single-person operations.
- Partnership Firm – If you’re working with one or more business partners.
- LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) – Offers flexibility + limited liability.
- Private Limited Company – Suitable for startups with long-term plans or funding needs.
Pro Tip: If you plan to grow big or attract international investors, go with a Private Limited Company or LLP for better credibility.
2: Register Your Company Name
Pick a unique and meaningful business name that reflects your export niche. Check for name availability on the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) portal if you’re registering a company.
Once approved, you’ll get:
- Certificate of Incorporation (for Pvt Ltd/LLP)
- GST Number
- PAN & TAN (Permanent Account Number and Tax Deduction Account Number)
3: Get a PAN Card in the Company’s Name
Whether you’re operating as a sole proprietor or a company, your business needs a PAN card. This is essential for:
- Opening a current bank account
- Filing taxes
- Applying for your IEC (Import Export Code)
You can apply for a PAN at NSDL or UTIITSL.
4: Open a Current Bank Account
After getting your PAN, open a current account in your business name at any nationalized or private bank. Make sure the account is ready to handle international transactions.
What you’ll need:
- Company registration proof
- PAN card
- Address proof
- KYC documents
5: Apply for IEC (Import Export Code)
This is the most crucial step to start your export business. The IEC is a 10-digit code issued by the DGFT (Director General of Foreign Trade), without which you can’t export legally from India.
Apply at: https://dgft.gov.in/CP/
Required Documents:
- PAN Card (Company or Individual)
- Address proof (Utility bill or bank certificate)
- Cancelled cheque
- Digital Signature Certificate (optional but helpful)
Processing Time: Usually 2–3 working days.
Once issued, this code is valid for lifetime – no renewal required.
6: Get GST Registration
GST is mandatory if your annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh for NE states). Even if you’re just starting out, it’s wise to get registered because:
- GSTIN is required by many international buyers.
- You can claim input tax credits on export-related purchases.
- Some shipping lines and customs processes require GST details.
Apply at: https://www.gst.gov.in/
7: Register with Export Promotion Councils (Optional but Recommended)
Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) offer certification, guidance, and access to buyer-seller meets and trade fairs.
For example:
- APEDA – For agricultural & food products
- EEPC – For engineering goods
- FIEO – For general exporters
Joining these councils builds trust with international buyers and helps you benefit from government export schemes.
8: Setup Logistics & Compliance
You’re almost ready! Now focus on the practical side:
- Hire a reliable CHA (Customs House Agent) to help with documentation.
- Register on the ICEGATE portal to file shipping bills and track exports.
- Arrange shipping, warehousing, and international insurance.
- Understand Incoterms (FOB, CIF, etc.) to manage pricing and liability.
What’s Next After Registration?
Once registered, focus on:
- Finding international buyers through B2B portals (like Alibaba, IndiaMART)
- Creating a professional website for your export brand
- Promoting your business via LinkedIn, trade expos, and EPC support
Ready to Register Your Export Company with Confidence?
Starting an export company may sound like a long process—but with the right guidance and training, it becomes easy and rewarding.
At Yuva Training Institute of Import Export, we’ve helped hundreds of students and aspiring entrepreneurs like you launch successful export businesses.
Whether you’re stuck in documentation, unsure about IEC, or just need a clear step-by-step roadmap, we’re here to guide you.
Take the First Step Today!
👉 Visit Yuva Exim Institute to join our expert-led training program and start your export journey the right way!
