FSSAI Export Import License – Complete Guide for Food Businesses
FSSAI Export Import License – Complete Guide for Food Businesses
In today’s global food trade, compliance with Indian food safety laws is not optional—it is mandatory. If you are planning to export food products from India or import food items into the country, obtaining an FSSAI Export Import License is a legal requirement. This license ensures that food products meet safety, hygiene, and quality standards prescribed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Whether you are a manufacturer, trader, merchant exporter, or importer, understanding the process of obtaining an Fssai Import License and FSSAI Export License is crucial to avoid penalties, shipment delays, or rejection at ports.
This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the FSSAI Export Import License, eligibility, documents, application process, benefits, and FAQs.
The FSSAI Export Import License is a mandatory Central FSSAI License required by businesses involved in importing or exporting food products. This license is issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
Any food business operator (FBO) dealing with international trade must obtain this license before starting operations. Without an FSSAI Export Import License, food consignments can be detained, rejected, or destroyed by customs authorities.
The following entities are required to obtain an FSSAI Export Import License:
Food importers bringing food products into India
Food exporters shipping food items outside India
Merchant exporters dealing in food commodities
Manufacturers exporting their own food products
Traders and wholesalers involved in cross-border food trade
Online food businesses selling internationally
If your business involves any form of food export or import, an Fssai Import License or FSSAI Export License is compulsory.
Although both fall under the central licensing category, there are slight differences:
Required for importing food products into India
Mandatory clearance at Indian ports
Food items are tested as per FSSAI standards
License must mention the importer’s IEC code
Required for exporting food products from India
Helps meet international food safety requirements
Mandatory for customs clearance
Enhances global buyer confidence
In most cases, businesses involved in both activities apply for a combined FSSAI Export Import License.
The FSSAI Export Import License applies to a wide range of food products, including:
Processed and packaged foods
Dairy and milk products
Meat, poultry, and seafood
Spices, condiments, and seasonings
Health supplements and nutraceuticals
Edible oils and fats
Beverages and drinking water
Each product category must comply with specific FSSAI standards.
To apply for an Fssai Import License or FSSAI Export License, the following documents are required:
PAN Card of the business
Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT
Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed / Proprietorship proof
List of food products to be imported/exported
Address proof of business premises
Identity and address proof of directors/partners
Food safety management system plan
Authority letter or board resolution
Importer Exporter profile
Proper documentation ensures faster approval and avoids application rejection.
The application process for an FSSAI Export Import License is completely online. Below are the key steps:
Create an account on the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal.
Choose “Central License” as export and import activities fall under central jurisdiction.
Enter business details, IEC number, product categories, and operational information.
Submit all required documents in the prescribed format.
Pay the government fee online.
FSSAI authorities verify documents and may conduct inspection if required.
Once approved, the FSSAI Export Import License is issued with a unique 14-digit license number.
License validity ranges from 1 to 5 years
Renewal must be done before expiry to avoid penalties
Late renewal attracts fines and possible suspension
Timely renewal of your FSSAI Export License or Fssai Import License ensures uninterrupted business operations.
Obtaining an FSSAI Export Import License offers multiple advantages:
Legal compliance with Indian food laws
Smooth customs clearance
Improved brand credibility in international markets
Increased trust among global buyers and importers
Reduced risk of shipment rejection
Access to new international trade opportunities
It also helps businesses meet global food safety benchmarks.
Operating without an FSSAI Export Import License can lead to serious consequences:
Heavy monetary penalties
Detention or seizure of food consignments
Blacklisting by customs authorities
Legal prosecution under FSS Act
Loss of business reputation
Hence, obtaining the correct Fssai Import License or FSSAI Export License is essential before starting operations.
The application process for an FSSAI Export Import License involves technical documentation and strict compliance. Professional assistance helps in:
Accurate application filing
Avoiding delays and rejection
Handling FSSAI queries efficiently
Faster license approval
End-to-end compliance support
This ensures peace of mind and lets you focus on business growth.
Yes, any business exporting food products from India must obtain an FSSAI Export License to comply with food safety regulations.
No, importing food items without an Fssai Import License is illegal and can result in shipment rejection at ports.
The license is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the option selected during application.
Yes, a valid Import Export Code (IEC) is compulsory to apply for an FSSAI Export Import License.
Yes, multiple food product categories can be added under a single FSSAI Export Import License, subject to compliance.
Generally, it takes 15–30 working days, depending on documentation and verification.
The FSSAI Export Import License is a critical requirement for any food business involved in international trade. Whether you need an Fssai Import License or FSSAI Export License, compliance with FSSAI norms ensures safety, quality, and credibility in the global marketplace.
By securing this license, businesses not only meet legal obligations but also build trust with customers, customs authorities, and international partners. Applying on time and ensuring proper documentation can help you expand your food business beyond borders smoothly and legally.
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