Export Onion (fresh) from India: Buyers, Process & Requirements
How to export Onion (fresh) from India, who buys it, the quality and documentation buyers expect, and how to connect with verified export buyers.
Top export markets for Onion (fresh)
How to export Onion (fresh) from India
First obtain an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) from DGFT and register as an exporter with APEDA. Onion export is policy-sensitive in India, so always check the current DGFT notification for any export ban, minimum export price (MEP) or quota before you commit to a buyer. Source firm, well-cured bulbs, grade by size and clean and pack through a hygienic facility; each consignment needs a phytosanitary certificate from plant quarantine and must meet the importing country's residue and quarantine conditions. Keep the produce dry and ventilated, avoid sprouting and rot, and ship in ventilated containers rather than full reefer for most short-haul markets. Agree Incoterms and a secure payment method such as advance or letter of credit before shipping. Confirm the live export policy, MRL limits and market access on the APEDA and DGFT portals before booking.
Quality and standards buyers expect
Meet destination MRL limits for pesticide residues. Bulbs should be firm, well-cured, single-centred where the market prefers it, free from sprouting, black mould, neck rot and soil; grade strictly by diameter. Red varieties from Maharashtra and Gujarat are widely traded. Confirm exact size grades and residue limits per buyer and market.
Packaging
Ventilated mesh or jute bags, commonly 5 kg, 10 kg, 20 kg or 25 kg, stacked for airflow; some premium retail markets take pre-packed nets or cartons. Keep dry and well ventilated to prevent rot in transit.
Demand and opportunity
Large and steady regional demand, especially from Bangladesh, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and the Gulf, but the trade is volatile because Indian export policy and prices swing with domestic supply. Demand can vanish overnight if an export ban or MEP is imposed. Verify both buyer interest and current export policy yourself.
Common pitfalls and scams to avoid
Sudden export bans, minimum export price changes or quotas that can strand a booked consignment; rot, sprouting and mould from poor curing or ventilation; MRL rejection; and advance-fee or fake-buyer scams that demand registration or inspection fees upfront.
Indicative HS code: 0703.10 (onions and shallots, fresh or chilled). Confirm the exact 8-digit line on the DGFT/ICEGATE schedule, since export policy and any minimum export price or ban can change.. Confirm the exact 8-digit code, current export policy, fees and MRLs on the official APEDA portal before you ship.