How to Start Exporting from Kerala 2026 – Complete Guide for MSMEs & Businesses

Introduction: Why Export from Kerala in 2026?

Kerala is one of India’s most export-ready states — with a strong base in spices, seafood, coir, rubber, cashews, organic produce, IT services, and handicrafts. In 2026, with the Indian government’s push to reach USD 2 trillion in exports by 2030, Kerala MSMEs and businesses have an unprecedented opportunity to access global markets.

This guide walks you through every step of starting your export journey from Kerala — from registration to your first shipment.

Step 1: Obtain Your IEC – Import Export Code

The Import Export Code (IEC) is the mandatory first step for any exporter or importer in India. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), the IEC is a 10-digit code linked to your PAN.

• Who needs it: Every business or individual exporting goods or services from India
• Documents required: PAN card, Aadhaar, bank certificate, business registration proof
• Processing time: 1–3 working days (online application)
• Validity: Lifetime — no renewal required
• Cost: Government fee of ₹500

Blueberry FM handles the complete IEC registration process. Get your IEC registered today.

Step 2: Register for GST and File LUT

Exporters must be GST-registered to claim export benefits. Key steps:

• Register for GST if not already done — GST Registration Services
• File a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) annually to export without paying IGST
• Claim GST refunds on inputs used in exported goods

Step 3: APEDA Registration (for Agricultural Exports)

If you are exporting agricultural products, processed foods, or organic produce, APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) registration is mandatory.

• Required for: fruits, vegetables, cereals, dairy, meat, poultry, processed foods, organic products
• Enables access to APEDA schemes, subsidies, and buyer databases
• Processing time: 30 days

Register for APEDA with Blueberry FM.

Step 4: FSSAI Central Licence (for Food Exports)

Food businesses exporting products require an FSSAI Central Licence — mandatory for manufacturing, processing, and export of food items.

Apply for FSSAI Central Licence.

Step 5: Organic Certification (NPOP / NOP)

For organic produce exports to the EU, USA, and other premium markets, NPOP (National Programme for Organic Production) or NOP (USDA Organic) certification is required.

Get Organic Certification with Blueberry FM.

Step 6: Export Finance – Fund Your First Shipment

Export finance bridges the gap between production and payment. Key instruments available to Kerala exporters:

• Pre-Shipment Credit (Packing Credit) — Working capital to procure and pack goods before shipment
• Post-Shipment Credit — Finance against export documents after shipment
• Letter of Credit (LC) Discounting — Immediate liquidity against confirmed LCs
• ECGC Cover — Export credit insurance against buyer default

Read the Complete Guide to Export Finance in Kerala or explore Structured Export Finance Solutions.

Step 7: Export Documentation

Every export shipment requires a set of standard documents:

• Commercial Invoice & Packing List
• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
• Certificate of Origin
• Shipping Bill (filed on ICEGATE)
• Export Declaration Form
• Phytosanitary / Health Certificate (for food and agricultural products)
• APEDA Certificate (where applicable)

Step 8: Choose Your Target Markets

Kerala exporters are best positioned for the following markets in 2026:

• GCC (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain) — Spices, seafood, organic produce, coir, IT services
• USA & Canada — Organic products, ayurvedic goods, IT/ITES
• UK & Germany — Handicrafts, textiles, organic food
• Singapore & Malaysia — Seafood, spices, rubber products

Blueberry FM Export Services

Blueberry FM provides end-to-end export facilitation for Kerala businesses — from registration to market entry.

• Export Services India Hub
• Export Optimisation & Market Entry
• Export on Demand
• Export Finance Guide
• Business ROI & Financial Calculators

Contact our export team for a free consultation and export readiness assessment.