Dry Fruit Export from India: A Step-by-Step Guide
India’s agricultural climatic diversity and horticultural practices make it a perfect destination to source premium quality dry fruits. From Maharashtra’s raisins to Kashmir’s almonds and Kerala’s cashews, Indian dry fruits are in high demand globally. With consistent production, export-friendly policies and growing global health awareness, dry fruit export from India is a lucrative opportunity for traders and bulk suppliers worldwide.
Today the global demand for Indian dry fruit is increasing making it a very profitable venture for a global exporter. UAE, USA, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and Malaysia are the top dry fruit importers for Indian dry fruit exports. But the question is, how can exporters tap into this growing demand and start exporting dry fruits from India?
India's Position in the Global Dry Fruit Export Market
India holds a strong position in the global dry fruit export landscape, driven by consistent supply, quality assurance, and competitive pricing. The country is especially known for its dominance in certain dry fruit categories.
India is a key exporter of:
- Cashew nuts
- Raisins
- Walnuts
- Almonds (though mostly imported and re-exported)
- Pistachios
According to the APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) report, India exported dry fruits more than INR 6800 crore in 2024, the top export destinations are UAE, USA, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam and Malaysia.
Top Categories for Dry Fruit Export from India (HS Codes)
Have you ever heard of HS Codes and wondered why they matter in exports? HS (Harmonized System) Codes are internationally recognised 6- to 8-digit codes used to classify goods in global trade. For exporters, knowing the correct HS Code is must,it determines how your product is identified at customs, affects duties and taxes and ensures smooth documentation and compliance. In short, if you are in the dry fruit export business, HS Codes are not optional, they are essential.
Here are some of the key HS Codes you need to know while exporting dry fruits from India:
- 08013200 – Cashew nuts (shelled)
- 08062000 – Raisins
- 08023100 – Walnuts (in shell)
- 08023200 – Walnuts (shelled)
- 08021100 – Almonds (in shell)
- 08021200 – Almonds (shelled)
Knowing these codes will help you stay compliant with global export -import regulations and avoid delays or penalties at borders.
Now let’s talk about why Indian dry fruits are in demand.
Why Are Indian Dry Fruits In Demand?
Indian dry fruits are in demand globally for their quality, versatility, and strong supply chain. Here are the reasons:
- Nutritional Benefits: Dry fruits have antioxidant properties, and are also a good source of vitamins and healthy fats.
- Ayurvedic and Traditional Uses: They are used in holistic medicine and wellness diets.
- Variety: From plain to roasted and flavored.
- Long Shelf Life: Dry fruits have a long shelf life which is good for long-distance trade.
- Government Incentives: The government provides export subsidies and quality certification.
Top Dry Fruit Producing States in India
India's dry fruit production is concentrated in specific regions known for their climatic suitability and agri-infrastructure. Understanding these state-wise contributions helps exporters and bulk buyers identify sourcing hubs for consistent supply.
Why Exporting Dry Fruits from India is Profitable
With growing international demand, supportive government schemes like RoDTEP and MEIS, and the ease of online trade facilitation, dry fruit export from India is a lucrative opportunity.
Here’s a quick look at export data:
|
Parameter |
Value (2023–24) |
|
Total Export Volume |
1.5+ lakh MT |
|
Estimated Export Value |
INR 6,800+ crore |
|
Number of Exporters |
2,000 |
|
Key Importing Countries |
UAE, USA, EU, UK |
Step-by-Step Procedure to Export Dry Fruits from India
Exporting dry fruits successfully from India requires proper licensing, compliance, packaging, and logistics. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide for B2B exporters:
Step 1: Register Your Business and IEC
|
State |
Major Dry Fruit |
Contribution |
|
Maharashtra |
Raisins |
Produces more than 1.6 million tonnes annually, contributing to 80%+ of India’s raisin output. |
|
Kerala |
Cashews |
A key cashew-producing and exporting state, accounting for 15% of national output. |
|
Jammu& Kashmir |
Walnuts |
Leads with the highest yield, producing 35,000+ tonnes of premium-quality walnuts yearly. |
|
Andhra Pradesh |
Cashews |
Strong output with 170,000+ tonnes, supported by government export initiatives. |
|
Himachal Pradesh |
Almonds (minor scale) |
Emerging almond grower, supports regional supply for North Indian buyers. |
This is the first step to export dry fruits from India. First register your firm as LLP, Pvt. Ltd. or sole proprietorship. Then apply for Import-Export Code (IEC) through DGFT which is mandatory for all export activities.
Step 2: Find Target Market and Buyer
Next step is to find a target market and genuine buyer. In this step use export-import intelligence data to find high demand countries. You can connect with verified international buyers through Tradologie.com which has buyers in 100+ countries and supports export-import in 20+ global languages.
Step 3: Ensure Quality Compliance
Dry fruits must meet global quality standards. Exporters should obtain:
- FSSAI Certification
- APEDA Registration
- Phytosanitary Certificate
- SGS or similar third-party lab testing
Step 4: Choose Appropriate Packaging
Next step, Use moisture-proof and air-sealed packaging with proper labelling to ensure safety during transit and compliance with destination country norms.
Step 5: Select Logistics and Customs Clearance
It is a very important step. Choose a CHA (Customs House Agent) and a freight forwarder. Ensure proper documentation:
- Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading
- Certificate of Origin
- Fumigation Certificate (if required)
Step 6: Ship and Track Your Consignment
Once cleared, the goods are shipped. Make sure to track delivery and maintain communication with buyers to ensure satisfaction.
Top 10 Dry Fruits Exporters in India
India’s dry fruit export industry is supported by companies that consistently meet global quality standards, certifications, and demand volumes. These exporters have established strong trade networks across the Middle East, Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific.
Here are some leading dry fruit exporters from India:
- GKC Foods Pvt. Ltd.
- Jabs International Pvt. Ltd.
- Kisan Agro Product Industries
- Nutranta Seeds
- Agrocrops Exim Limited
- Gulab Dry Fruits
- T. Abdul Wahid & Co.
- Metro Dry Fruits and Nuts
- Rathore Agro Products
- Mahaveer Dry Fruits
Conclusion:
In conclusion, we can say exporting dry fruits from India is a golden opportunity for traders and agro-entrepreneurs. Today, with increasing demand, supportive government policies, and platforms like Tradologie.com that simplify sourcing and negotiation, the export journey becomes streamlined and profitable.
If you are ready to enter the dry fruits export market, follow the steps in this guide, ensure compliance, and deliver quality—success will follow.
