Exporting food from India is a massive opportunity, but it comes with a specialized layer of compliance. To ship even a single box of food items across international borders, your business must be recognized as a 'Central FSSAI Exporter'.
Regardless of your turnover, all exporters MUST have a **Central FSSAI License**. A State License or Basic Registration is not valid for clearing customs at Ports or Airports for outgoing food shipments.
While FSSAI is the Indian standard, exporters must also ensure their products meet the food laws of the 'Destination Country' (e.g., FDA for USA or EFSA for Europe). FSSAI compliance proves your base in India is hygienic and legally sound.
Exporters must often follow additional labeling rules, such as identifying the 'Exporter Name/Address' and ensuring all information is provided in the language of the destination country, alongside the standard Indian FSSAI logo.
Expand your horizons. Pragati Services specializes in Central FSSAI Licenses for exporters and provides consultancy for international food safety standards.
Discover detailed compliance guides specifically for your industry.
Still Confused? Talk to an Expert
Get a free consultation for your food business.
Login to your account or create a new one on the Citizen Portal.
Browse services and select 'FSSAI Registration' from the list.
Make a secure online payment of the service fee.
Your application is submitted instantly to our team.
• An invoice is automatically generated and available for your records.
• You can track the live status of your application in the 'My Applications' section.
• Our dedicated Pragati support team will contact you within 4–5 hours to collect the required documents and complete the processing.
Do I need a separate license for each country I export to?
No, one Central FSSAI Exporter license covers your activities for all international shipments.
Is an IE Code needed along with FSSAI?
Yes, to be a legal exporter, you need both the Import Export Code (IEC) and an FSSAI Central License.
Can a merchant exporter (who doesn't manufacture) get FSSAI?
Yes, merchant exporters must apply for an FSSAI Central License under the Kind of Business 'Exporters'.