How to Import Food from India to USA.

To be able to import food products from India to the  United States export import.you will need to know what you can import, how to comply with the regulations, and how to properly document and plan logistics/intended shipment/delivery.
Use the information outlined below as a simple guide:

1) Know about Regulation of Food Imports into US.

– U.S.A. (The Unites States of America) governs all food imports through the Federal Drug Administration (FDA)
– Must comply with FSMA (Food safety modernisation ACT)
– You must ensure product safety, labeling and packaging requirements.

 2) Registration with the FDA

– Every foreign food manufacturer must register with the FDA.
– You will require a U.S. Agent to communicate with the FDA.
3) Choose the Products to Import

– Commonly exported from India:
– Spices (turmeric, etc )
– Lentils (ex. Chana dal, etc .)
– Ready to eat foods (ex. Indian food made ready for consumer consumption).

4) IEC
– Indian Exporter will have to obtain their IEC (import export code) from their DGFT office.
– IEC’s are required for any international trade.

5) Required Labelling

– All food products exported to the U.S.A. must have:
– The name of the product on the label
– An ingredient list
– Nutritional information

 6) Prior Notice to the FDA

– The exporter must notify the FDA at least 5 days prior to the shipment’s arrival in the U.S.A.

7) Required documentation
– Commercial invoice
– Packing list

8) Logistics and shipping
– Choose one of two shipping/transportation methods: Air (fast but expensive) or ocean (cheaper and slower).

 9) Customs clearance in the U.S.A.
– Before your goods are entered into the U.S.A., you must clear customs.
– You will be required to pay all applicable tariffs and taxes at customs time.

10) Use an Import/Export Agent

– We highly recommend using a U.S. based import agent / distributor; it will make importing significantly easier.