How to Import Products from India: A Buyer's Guide

Importing from India offers buyers access to competitively priced, quality-grade goods across food, textiles, handicrafts, and engineering. This guide walks you through the typical buyer journey from supplier discovery to delivered shipment.

1. Identify the right supplier

Start by listing what you need: product, quantity, packaging, destination, and target unit cost. Then shortlist suppliers who clearly position themselves as exporters — look for IEC registration issued by DGFT, FSSAI / APEDA certifications (for food), and references to international markets.

2. Send a clear RFQ

Your RFQ should mention: product variety/grade, quantity per shipment, packaging spec, destination port, preferred Incoterm (FOB, CIF, CNF), and required certifications (Halal, Organic, Phytosanitary). The more specific your RFQ, the faster you'll get accurate quotations.

3. Evaluate the quotation

A proper export quotation includes per-unit price, container loading capacity, validity, payment terms, and Incoterm-aligned pricing. Compare apples-to-apples by normalising everything to the same Incoterm.

4. Confirm the order and request a Proforma Invoice

Once aligned on price and terms, the supplier issues a Proforma Invoice. This document is the basis for opening a Letter of Credit or wiring an advance payment.

5. Production, inspection, and shipment

Reputable Indian exporters offer pre-shipment inspection, batch traceability, and third-party verification on request. Confirm the inspection scope upfront so there are no surprises before container loading.

Further reading

• →FOB vs CIF: Which Incoterm Is Better? — for the Incoterm decision.
• →Documents Required to Import from India — the full checklist your supplier should provide.
• →Payment Terms for First-Time Indian Buyers — LC, T/T, and D/P compared.
• →The Complete Guide to Indian Export Certifications — every certificate you'll encounter.
• →ICC Incoterms 2020 — official reference for Incoterm definitions.