Full procedure for exporting fresh water fishes from India

Full procedure for exporting fresh water fishes from India

Exporting fresh water fish from India involves multiple steps, including obtaining necessary licenses, ensuring compliance with regulations, and following export procedures. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

 

Step 1: Business Setup & Registration

1. Company Registration – Register your business as a proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or Pvt. Ltd. Company.
2. GST Registration – Obtain a Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration.
3. Import Export Code (IEC) – Apply for an IEC from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) via the DGFT website.

 

Step 2: Licensing & Approvals

1. Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) Registration

   • Apply for an MPEDA registration certificate, which is mandatory for seafood and ornamental fish exports.
   • MPEDA inspects and certifies compliance with quality and hygiene standards.

2. FSSAI License (if applicable)

   • If exporting fish for human consumption, obtain a Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license.

3. Wildlife Clearance (for certain species)

   • Some freshwater fish species may require clearance from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB).

 

Step 3: Sourcing & Quality Assurance

1. Ensure fish is sourced from authorized farms or suppliers.
2. Meet international quality and health standards.
3. If exporting live fish, use proper water conditioning, oxygenation, and temperature control.

 

Step 4: Packaging & Labeling

1. Follow international packaging standards:

   • Use oxygenated water bags, insulated boxes, and temperature-controlled packaging.
   • Label the package with species name, weight, and handling instructions.

2. Comply with the importing country’s packaging and labeling regulations.

 

Step 5: Customs Clearance & Documentation

1. Required documents for export:

   • Invoice
   • Packing list
   • Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
   • Health Certificate (issued by MPEDA or authorized agencies)
   • Certificate of Origin (issued by Export Inspection Agency or Chamber of Commerce)
   • Phytosanitary Certificate (for certain species)
   • Any other country-specific documents

2. Customs Declaration

   • File a shipping bill with the Indian Customs Department via the ICEGATE portal.
   • Pay applicable customs duties and inspection charges.

 

Step 6: Logistics & Shipping

1. Select an appropriate mode of transport:

   • Air Freight (preferred for live fish)
   • Sea Freight (for frozen or processed fish)

2. Ensure proper handling during transit.

3. Comply with the importing country’s quarantine regulations.

 

Step 7: Compliance with Importing Country’s Regulations

• Check the import regulations of the destination country.
• Meet any specific quarantine, labeling, or certification requirements.

 

Additional Tips

• Partner with international buyers before export.
• Conduct market research to understand demand and pricing.
• Maintain high-quality standards to build long-term business relations.