How to Start Cumin Seeds Export from India – Complete Step-by-Step Guide
How to Start Cumin Seeds Export from India – Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Cumin seeds export business is becoming very popular in India. Global demand is increasing rapidly, especially in terms of quality and flavor of Indian cumin seeds. If you are wondering how to start Cumin seeds export from India, then this guide is perfect for you. Here you will find step-by-step instructions, required documents, targeted export markets and profit possibilities.
Step 1: Do market research
First of all, it is important to do market research before starting Cumin seeds export from India. See in which countries the demand for cumin seeds is highest, what are the market prices and which type of cumin seeds is being preferred for export from India.
Tip: Major share of Cumin seeds export from India goes to Vietnam, USA, UAE, UK, Bangladesh, Brazil, Malaysia, South Africa and Saudi Arabia. These countries demand Indian cumin seeds because of their high oil content, flavor and shelf life.
Step 2: Documentation Required for Cumin Seeds Export
Company Registration, GST & IEC Code
To start Export of Cumin seeds from India legally, you will have to register your company (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or private limited). GST registration will also be required for cumin seeds export worldwide, so that you can raise export invoices. Also, it is mandatory to obtain Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT .
Central FSSAI License & Spices Board Registration
Cumin seeds export from India comes in spices category, hence it is necessary to take Central FSSAI license . Exporters also need registration with Spices Board.
Current Bank Account
It is mandatory to have a current bank account to start cumin seeds export business. This account is used for business transactions in which it is possible to receive payments from foreign buyers, pay shipping and documentation charges, and avail government benefits like GST refund and RoDTEP. Export payments always come to the current account and this account is linked to IEC (Import Export Code). Export payment from savings account is not legally allowed, hence it is very important to open a current account in an export-experienced bank to export cumin seeds.
Step 3: Quality Check, Packaging & Export Pricing Strategy
To achieve success in Cumin seeds export from India, it is very important to maintain high quality. Use clean, sorted, graded cumin seeds. Packaging should also be of world standards – moisture proof and hygienic.
While fixing the cumin seeds export profit margin, it is necessary to calculate the total cost of raw material, processing, packaging, logistics and documentation. Always clearly mention whether the price is on FOB or CIF basis. Maintain competitive pricing by checking international market rates and adjust the per kg rate according to the MOQ. Planning pricing with reasonable profit margin and secure payment terms is important for a successful export business.
Step 4: Find International Buyers for Worldwide
- B2B Portals: List your business to export cumin seeds from India at Exportbusinessmart.com. Export Business Mart will connect you with verified international spices buyers, legitimate export inquiries and product-specific leads as a new exporter, which can be very beneficial to new exporters.
- Trade Fairs & Exhibitions: You can attend international food trade fairs, spice expos and agri-trade exhibitions for meet overseas buyers, importers and distributors face to face to build trust.
- Social Media Marketing: Connect with importers and exporters on LinkedIn, raise your brand awareness by posting your cumin seed products, certifications, packaging and exporting capability to your audience through your Facebook and Instagram accounts.
- Email Marketing: Send short, professional and personalized emails containing proposals to potential international buyers. Include detailed descriptions of your products, quality standards, certifications, minimum order quantities (MOQ) so that your reputation as a credible exporter and your products can be clearly communicated to potential buyers.
Step 5: Logistics and Shipping
Timely delivery is crucial in Cumin seeds export from India. Choose a reliable freight forwarder, pay attention to container booking, customs clearance and shipping schedule.
If You Want to Find Genuine Cumin Seeds purchaser Worldwide, Register your company profile on Export Business Mart and connect with verified international purchaser.
Registered Free NowMajor Cumin Seeds Producing States of India
India is the world's largest cumin seeds producer and exporter, where Gujarat and Rajasthan are considered major cumin seeds producing states. Gujarat has favorable climate, dry weather and advanced farming practices to produce high-quality cumin seeds, which are internationally preferred for strong aroma, uniform size and better oil content.
Cumin seeds, which comes from Rajasthan, is known for its natural color, purity and bulk availability, making it ideal for long-term export contracts. Due to the combined production of these two states, India supplies almost 70% of the world's cumin seeds, hence international buyers trust Indian exporters more and consider cumin seeds export from India as a reliable sourcing option.
HSN Code for Cumin Seeds Export
Using correct HS code is very important for customs clearance.
• HSN Code: 09093100 (Product: Cumin Seeds – neither crushed nor ground)
Using incorrect HSN codes may result in shipment delays or penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which Countries Dominate the Global Cumin Seeds Production Market?
If we talk about production, then India, Syria, Iran, Turkey and China are the top producers countries. But highest production of cumin seeds in India, because India's world market share is approx. It is 70%.
Q2. Can Cumin Seeds Export from India Still Make You Profitable in 2026?
Absolutely! Cumin seeds export from India has become a very profitable business even till 2026. Global demand is increasing every year and experts say that its CAGR could be 6-8% by 2026. But profit margin depends on sourcing, quality, pricing and buyer base.
Q3. What is the HS code for cumin seeds?
The correct HS code for cumin seeds export is 09093100.
Q4. What are documents required for export of cumin seeds worldwide?
According to world wide exports of cumin seed, the documents required are the Import Export Code of DGFT, GST registration, FSSAI licence, Spices Board registration, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Phytosanitary Certificate.
Q5. How can I find genuine international buyers for cumin seeds?
You can find genuine buyers through B2B export portal like Exportbusinessmart.com, international trade fairs, government buyer databases, and social media networking and targeted email marketing. Always verify buyer credentials before finalizing deals.
Q6. Which states are the major producers of cumin seeds in India?
Gujarat and Rajasthan are the major cumin seeds producing states of India. These states contribute the highest volume and best quality cumin seeds for export markets.
Q7. How Did India Perform in Cumin Seeds Export During FY 2025–26?
Export of Cumin seeds from India crossed a record 300,000 metric tons in FY 2025–26, which is 10% more than last year. Value-wise also $600 million+ exports happened. Major growth has been in Vietnam, USA, and Middle East markets.
Conclusion
Cumin seeds export from India can give you a stable and profitable business in the long term. With proper research, quality control and buyer engagement, you can make profits even till 2026. Keep documents ready, set pricing smartly, and focus on global export markets.
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