Exporting animal food from India is a growing business, but it requires proper approvals and paperwork to meet both Indian laws and international standards. The documents required for export animal food from India play an important role in ensuring that the products are safe, hygienic, and acceptable in the importing country. These documents not only help exporters follow FSSAI, DGFT, and Customs regulations but also build trust with global buyers by proving product quality and compliance. Having the right documentation in place makes the export process smooth, prevents customs delays, and reduces the chances of rejection in foreign markets.
What are the documents required for export animal food from India?
The main documents required for exporting animal food from India include:
- Commercial Documents – Invoice, Packing List, Proforma Invoice, Bill of Exchange.
- Shipping Documents – Bill of Lading, Airway Bill, Certificate of Origin, Insurance Certificate.
- Regulatory Documents – FSSAI License, APEDA Registration (if applicable), Sanitary & Health Certificate.
- Customs Documents – Shipping Bill, Bill of Entry, IEC (Import Export Code).
- Other Documents – Lab test reports, buyer’s import permits, and labeling compliance proofs.
Why are documents important for export animal food from India?
Documents are important because they:
- Prove ownership and authenticity of goods.
- Ensure compliance with food safety laws in India and abroad.
- Help in customs clearance without delays.
- Protect exporters from legal issues and penalties.
- Build trust with international buyers.
Which authority regulates the documents required for export animal food from India?
The main regulatory bodies include:
- FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) – ensures safety of animal feed and food.
- DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) – issues IEC and regulates trade.
- APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) – manages registration for specific products.
- Customs Department of India – checks export clearance.
- Importing Country’s Authorities – require health certificates and quality approvals.
What commercial documents are required for export animal food from India?
The key commercial documents include:
- Commercial Invoice – Proof of sale between exporter and importer.
- Proforma Invoice – Initial estimate sent before the final invoice.
- Packing List – Detailed description of goods, packaging, and weight.
- Bill of Exchange – A financial document confirming payment terms.
What shipping documents are required for export animal food from India?
The important shipping documents are:
- Bill of Lading (B/L) – Issued by shipping company for sea transport.
- Airway Bill (AWB) – For air shipments.
- Certificate of Origin (CoO) – Certifies the country where the goods are produced.
- Insurance Certificate – Protects against loss or damage during shipping.
What regulatory approvals are included in the documents required for export animal food from India?
Exporters must obtain regulatory approvals such as:
- FSSAI Central License – Mandatory for animal food manufacturing and exports.
- APEDA Registration – Needed for certain processed foods and feed products.
- Health Certificate from Animal Husbandry or Quarantine Department – Ensures product safety.
- Laboratory Testing Reports – Proving that food is safe and meets quality standards.
Is a health or sanitary certificate mandatory in the documents required for export animal food from India?
Yes. A Sanitary/Health Certificate is mandatory for exporting animal food.
It is usually issued by:
- Animal Quarantine & Certification Services (AQCS) in India.
- Export Inspection Council (EIC) in some cases.
This certificate assures the importing country that the animal food is safe, hygienic, and free from diseases.
What customs documents are required for export animal food from India?
The customs documents include:
- Shipping Bill – Required for customs clearance.
- Bill of Entry – Record of goods entering/exiting India.
- Import Export Code (IEC) – Mandatory for all exporters.
- Customs Declaration Form – Declaration of product details and HS Code.
Do labeling and packaging guidelines form part of the documents required for export animal food from India?
Yes. Labeling and packaging compliance is very important. Exporters must ensure:
- Labels show product name, ingredients, manufacturer details, and expiry date.
- Packaging meets FSSAI guidelines and the importing country’s standards.
- Some countries require proof of eco-friendly packaging or non-toxic ink use.
What role does FSSAI play in the documents required for export animal food from India?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) ensures:
- Exporters have a valid FSSAI Central License.
- Animal food products meet safety and nutritional standards.
- Proper labeling rules are followed.
- Export consignments are safe and comply with importing country requirements
What is the process of applying for the documents required for export animal food from India?
The process includes:
- Register with DGFT and get an Import Export Code (IEC).
- Apply for FSSAI Central License (mandatory for food exports).
- Register with APEDA if required.
- Get Sanitary/Health Certificate from AQCS or EIC.
- Prepare commercial and shipping documents.
- File Shipping Bill with Indian Customs.
- Obtain Certificate of Origin (from Chamber of Commerce).
- Submit documents to buyer and shipping line.
What are the challenges in obtaining the documents required for export animal food from India?
Some common challenges include:
- Multiple regulatory approvals take time and cost.
- Importing countries have different documentation standards.
- Strict lab testing and quality certification requirements.
- Delays in getting health/sanitary certificates.
- Complex customs clearance for new exporters.
What is the future outlook of documentation requirements for export animal food from India?
The future looks promising because:
- Digitalization of export documents (through DGFT and Customs portals) is reducing paperwork.
- Stricter safety checks will make Indian products more globally trusted.
- Harmonization with international food standards (Codex, WTO, OIE) will simplify exports.
- Government is supporting exporters through single-window clearance systems.
Is an FSSAI license mandatory for exporting animal food from India?
Yes, an FSSAI Central License is mandatory for all exporters of animal food.
Can small exporters send animal food without APEDA registration?
Yes, APEDA registration is only needed if the product falls under its notified categories.
