Get FSSAI Export License Hassle Free in 2025

With India’s food export sector witnessing a remarkable surge driven by growing global demand for Indian agricultural produce, spices, processed foods, and health-based consumables, regulatory compliance has become the bedrock of successful international trade.

One of the most indispensable legal requirements in this context is obtaining a valid FSSAI export license from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

This FSSAI Export license is not just limited to manufacturers; it is equally mandatory for merchant exporters—business entities that do not engage in food production themselves but source goods from third-party manufacturers for overseas markets.

Despite not altering or processing the food items, these entities fall within the purview of “food business operators” under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and hence must adhere to the same licensing norms.

Without a valid FSSAI Export license, merchant exporters risk customs clearance issues, shipment delays, export rejections, and substantial penalties under Indian law.

Moreover, international buyers often demand credible proof of food safety compliance, making the FSSAI export license a crucial prerequisite for maintaining both legal and commercial credibility in the global market.

What is the FSSAI Export License?

The Fhttps://fssai.gov.in/ood Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory regulatory body constituted under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, tasked with safeguarding and promoting public health by regulating and supervising food safety standards throughout the country.

For businesses operating in the food sector—including those involved in manufacturing, storage, distribution, retail, import, or export of food products—the possession of an FSSAI export license is not merely a formality but a legal mandate. The license issued by FSSAI acts as a seal of assurance that the food business operator complies with the comprehensive safety, hygiene, labeling, and quality norms prescribed by Indian law.

In the case of exporters and importers, especially those engaged in merchant export activities, securing an FSSAI Central License is particularly crucial.

The FSSAI export license is mandatory for any entity that exports food products across India’s borders, regardless of whether they directly manufacture the goods or procure them from third-party vendors.

Beyond ensuring compliance with domestic regulatory frameworks, the FSSAI export license plays a pivotal role in enhancing the reputation, trustworthiness, and acceptability of Indian food products in foreign markets. It reflects a commitment to internationally recognized food safety practices, thus helping exporters build strong trade relationships and meet the quality expectations of global importers and regulatory authorities abroad.

Is FSSAI Licence Compulsory for Merchant Exporters?

Yes, obtaining an FSSAI license is compulsory for merchant exporters involved in the food trade. A merchant exporter, although not a food manufacturer, plays a key role in sourcing, consolidating, storing, repacking, and exporting food products.

According to FSSAI regulations, any individual or entity involved in the handling, export, or distribution of food products must register or be licensed under the FSSAI framework. The requirement applies even if the exporter does not process the food themselves but is merely aggregating and exporting it.

In the absence of a valid FSSAI export license, the exporter is ineligible to move food consignments through customs and may face regulatory action from food authorities.

Why is the FSSAI License Important for Food Exporters?

For food exports, quality assurance is critical. International buyers demand safety certifications, and Indian customs require licenses before allowing outbound shipments. The FSSAI export license acts as a seal of assurance that the food product meets India’s food safety norms, making it easier to meet international regulatory and buyer requirements.

Additionally, foreign countries often recognize Indian safety certification when clearing goods at their borders. Without this, exporters risk delays, rejections, and damage to their brand reputation. Moreover, the license supports traceability and accountability, allowing government agencies to track food origins in case of safety incidents or recalls.

Types of FSSAI Licenses Applicable to Exporters

There are three main types of FSSAI licenses, but only one is applicable to exporters, particularly merchant exporters:

1. Basic Registration:
   This is for small food businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakh. It is not valid for exporters as it is meant for petty manufacturers and retailers operating locally.
   
2. State License:
   This license is suitable for medium-sized food businesses operating within a single state with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore. Like the basic license, this too is not valid for food export activities.
   
3. Central License (Mandatory for Exporters):
   All food businesses involved in export or import of food products must obtain the Central License. This applies regardless of turnover and is the only license valid for merchant exporters. It is also required for businesses operating in multiple states or involved in large-scale operations such as repacking or relabeling for export.

Who is a Merchant Exporter Under FSSAI Norms?

A merchant exporter is an entity that procures goods from local manufacturers or suppliers and exports them without any processing or manufacturing activities of its own.

Under FSSAI norms, such exporters are still considered part of the food business ecosystem and must obtain a Central FSSAI Export License. This requirement ensures traceability, accountability, and safety of exported food items, even when exporters do not directly handle food production.

FSSAI Registration for Merchant Exporters: When and Who Should Apply

The requirement for FSSAI registration for merchant exporters kicks in the moment the business engages in food product sourcing and plans to ship it overseas. The following categories of businesses must apply for the Central License:

• Merchant exporters dealing in packaged, processed, or semi-processed food products.
  
• Traders who source food products from different states and export them under their label.
  
• Entities engaged in food aggregation and cold storage for export.
  
• Repackaging or relabeling units catering to international markets.
  
• Businesses re-exporting imported food items with minor value addition or repacking.
  

Even if you are a new exporter planning your first shipment, you must obtain the FSSAI export license prior to initiating the export process or registering with government export promotion councils.

Documents Required for FSSAI License for Export

To obtain an FSSAI license for merchant exporter, the following documents must be submitted:

• A copy of the Import-Export Code (IEC) issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade.
  
• Proof of business registration such as the Certificate of Incorporation, Partnership Deed, or Udyam/MSME registration.
  
• Identity and address proof of the proprietor, partner, or director.
  
• Premises proof such as lease agreement or property documents.
  
• Detailed list of food products to be exported.
  
• Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan or certificate, outlining hygiene and safety practices.
  
• Nomination of an authorized signatory with ID proof and a letter of authority.
  
• Declaration for export of non-standardized food items (if applicable).
  
• Copy of existing export license or registration with APEDA, MPEDA, or other relevant boards (if available).
  

The documents must be clear, legible, and compliant with FSSAI’s documentation standards to avoid rejection.

FSSAI Export License Fees for Exporters (India)

Exporters of food products from India are mandatorily required to obtain an Central FSSAI export License. This license is governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and applies irrespective of the exporter’s annual turnover.

Government Fees for FSSAI Licenses

Exporters must apply for the Central License only, regardless of their turnover.

License Validity & Renewal

• You can apply for a license with a validity of 1 to 5 years.
  
• The fee multiplies based on the number of years chosen.
  
• Example: For 5 years, the government fee would be ₹7,500 × 5 = ₹37,500 (plus applicable GST).
  

Renewal Rules

• Renewal applications should be filed at least 30 days before expiry.
  
• Late Renewal Penalties:
  
  • Within 30 days after expiry: ₹100 per day.
    
  • 1–90 days after expiry: 3× the annual fee.
    
  • 91–180 days after expiry: 5× the annual fee.
    
  • After 180 days: A new application is required.

Renewal, Modification, and Validity

An FSSAI Central License is valid for a period of up to 5 years and must be renewed before expiry. It is advisable to apply for renewal at least 30 days before the FSSAI export license expiry date to avoid late fees or lapse in validity. Late applications attract a penalty of ₹100 per day.

If your export operations expand or if you add new food categories, product types, or business addresses, the license must be updated accordingly. FSSAI permits license modification by submitting a separate application with supporting documents.

Additional Costs

• The above-mentioned fees are official government charges.
  
• Professional service fees (for documentation, application filing, follow-ups, etc.) are extra and vary based on the consultant or agency.

Application Process: How to Apply for FSSAI Licence for Export and Import

The process of obtaining the FSSAI license for import & export is entirely online through the FoSCoS portal. The step-by-step application process is as follows:

1. Account Registration: Create a user login on the FoSCoS portal and select ‘Central License’ based on your business type and operations.
   
2. Form Filling: Fill in Form B with company details, product categories, manufacturing or repackaging operations, and business location.
   
3. Document Upload: Upload all the required documents in the prescribed formats, ensuring they are current and valid.
   
4. Fee Payment: Pay the license fee online. Make sure to keep a record of the transaction for tracking.
   
5. Inspection (if required): In certain cases, especially where food processing or repackaging is involved, an FSSAI inspection may be carried out.
   
6. Application Review and Approval: Once documents and fees are verified, and inspection is cleared (if applicable), the Central License is issued within 30–60 working days.
   

Consequences of Non-Compliance of Central FSSAI license for Export

Operating as a food exporter without a valid FSSAI license can lead to severe regulatory consequences. These include:

• Seizure or confiscation of food consignments at Indian ports.
  
• Rejection of shipments by customs officials.
  
• Cancellation of export orders by international buyers.
  
• Penalties under Section 63 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, including fines and imprisonment.
  
• Disqualification from government subsidy and export incentive programs.
  

For merchant exporters, ensuring compliance with FSSAI norms is not just a legal formality, but a critical business imperative.

Understanding the Role of FSSAI in India’s Food Trade Ecosystem

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that food products manufactured, stored, distributed, or exported from India comply with stringent safety standards.

Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the authority is entrusted with setting benchmarks for food safety, regulating compliance, and enhancing consumer confidence both within India and globally.

For exporters, FSSAI acts as a gatekeeper, ensuring that only those food consignments that meet defined quality parameters can move beyond India’s borders.

FSSAI and Customs Clearance: Why the FSSAI export License is a Prerequisite

The Indian Customs Department works closely with FSSAI to ensure only licensed exporters are allowed to dispatch food consignments overseas.

FSSAI export license numbers are required during electronic data interchange (EDI) filings and Bill of Entry submissions. Lack of a valid license can lead to detainment, inspection, or outright rejection of export shipments.

Role of Third-Party Manufacturers and Co-Packers in Export Licensing

Merchant exporters often rely on third-party manufacturers or co-packers for sourcing food items. In such cases, it is mandatory to declare these production units and provide their FSSAI export license numbers.

Exporters must ensure that these units are themselves compliant, failing which their license application may be rejected or revoked.

How JPARKS INDIA can help with FSSAI Certificate for Export

We offer comprehensive assistance in obtaining the FSSAI license for merchant exporters, including:

• Central License registration on FoSCoS portal
  
• Personalized document checklist and FSMS support
  
• Advisory on product categorization and label compliance
  
• Follow-up with FSSAI authorities and clarification support
  
• Renewal, modification, and upgrade services
  

Our team ensures a seamless, error-free process so you can focus on scaling your business across borders while we manage your compliance.

Conclusion | Food Export License 2025

With strict global regulations on food quality and safety, having an FSSAI export license is essential for merchant exporters aiming to succeed in the international market.

From improving credibility with overseas buyers to ensuring smooth customs clearance, the FSSAI export license provides both legal protection and market access. Exporters should approach FSSAI compliance not as a hurdle, but as a foundation for long-term success and brand integrity in global trade.

For expert assistance on your FSSAI registration or to consult about your food export setup, feel free to get in touch with our compliance team today.

FAQs: FSSAI Export License 2025

1. If I only aggregate pre-packaged food for export under the manufacturer’s label, do I still need an FSSAI export license?

Yes. Even without modifying the food or relabeling it, you are classified as a “food business operator” under FSSAI norms. Your role in the handling, storage, or logistics chain still triggers the requirement for a Central License.

2. Can my export application be rejected if my third-party supplier does not hold a valid FSSAI license?

Absolutely. FSSAI cross-verifies supplier licenses during application processing. If your manufacturer or co-packer is non-compliant, your application may be delayed or rejected outright.

3. I plan to export food items under my own brand. Does that change my licensing needs?

Yes. Branding, relabeling, or repackaging makes you the “brand owner,” and your operations are viewed as more than passive trading. You must submit a detailed Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan and possibly undergo an inspection.

4. What if I’m re-exporting imported food items from India? Do I still need an FSSAI license?

Yes. Re-exporters—those importing food and sending it abroad with minor value additions like relabeling or repacking—are also subject to FSSAI Central License requirements under Indian law.

5. Is product-wise approval needed for exporting different categories of food?

No individual product approval is required unless you’re exporting non-standardized food items. In that case, you must submit a declaration and supporting documents to FSSAI for clearance.

6. Can a merchant exporter operate from multiple locations using one license?

Only if the operations are coordinated from a central office. Otherwise, each operational premise (e.g., warehouse, repacking unit) involved in export logistics may need to be registered or declared as part of the license.

7. How does the FSSAI license integrate with Indian customs procedures for export?

FSSAI license numbers are mandatory for EDI filings and customs clearance. The customs department cross-verifies this license at the port of loading. Missing or invalid license data can delay or block shipments.

8. What are the inspection triggers during FSSAI license processing for exporters?

Inspection is generally triggered if you’re involved in repacking, relabeling, or cold storage. If you operate purely as a logistics aggregator, inspection is often waived—though not guaranteed.

9. How does an FSSAI license improve international buyer confidence and compliance?

The FSSAI license is often requested as part of procurement due diligence by international buyers. It signals adherence to Indian food safety protocols, which align with Codex Alimentarius and WTO SPS standards—helping reduce clearance friction in destination countries.

10. What legal penalties can merchant exporters face for non-compliance or expired licenses?

Under Section 63 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, operating without a license can lead to penalties up to ₹5 lakhs or imprisonment up to 6 months. It may also result in blacklisting by export promotion councils and disqualification from government incentive schemes.