Exporting or importing food products is not just about shipping cartons across borders. It is about trust. Governments, buyers, and consumers want proof that the food is safe, traceable, and legally compliant. In India, that proof begins with the FSSAI Export-Import License.

This guide explains everything you need to know about the FSSAI export-import license, eligibility, process, documents, costs, timelines, and compliance rules—clearly, practically, and without unnecessary fluff.

An FSSAI Export-Import License is a Central FSSAI License issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). It authorises food businesses to import food into India or export food products outside India.
Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, any business involved in food handling—manufacturing, storage, transport, export, or import—must register or obtain a license from FSSAI.
For exporters and importers, only a Central License is valid. State or Basic registrations do not cover cross-border food trade.

Food safety is not negotiable. That is why Indian customs and international authorities insist on FSSAI compliance. An FSSAI export-import license helps you:

• Legally clear food consignments at Indian ports
• Meet Indian food safety standards
• Build trust with foreign buyers and authorities
• Avoid shipment rejection, penalties, or blacklisting
• Comply with customs and port health officer requirements

Customs authorities verify FSSAI license details before allowing clearance of food consignments. Without it, shipments can get stuck at ports, leading to storage costs and product spoilage. No exporter wants that kind of surprise.

You need an FSSAI export-import license if you are involved in any of the following:

• Export of processed or unprocessed food products
• Import of food items, ingredients, or additives
• Merchant exporters dealing in food products
• Food traders supplying to international markets
• Manufacturers exporting food under their brand
• Importers selling food products in India

Even if you export food occasionally, the law still applies. Frequency does not reduce compliance.

FSSAI issues three types of licenses:

1. Basic Registration
2. State License
3. Central License

For export and import, only the Central FSSAI License is valid. control.

The Central License allows operations across India and international borders. Export and import activities fall under the central jurisdiction because they involve customs, ports, and international trade regulations. FSSAI clearly specifies this requirement in its licensing guidelines.

Legal Framework Governing FSSAI Export-Import License

The FSSAI export-import licensing system operates under:

• Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
• Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011
• Customs Act, 1962
• FSSAI Import Regulations, 2017

You can verify these regulations on the official FSSAI website and the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare portals.

Food Products Covered Under FSSAI Export-Import License

Almost all food products require FSSAI approval, including:

• Packaged and processed foods
• Dairy and milk products
• Spices and condiments
• Cereals and pulses
• Meat, fish, and poultry products
• Beverages (non-alcoholic)
• Health supplements and nutraceuticals
• Edible oils and fats
• Confectionery and bakery items

Each product must comply with FSSAI standards for ingredients, additives, labelling, and hygiene.

Documentation plays a big role in smooth approval. Here is a realistic list of documents usually required:

Business Documents

• Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed / Proprietorship proof
• PAN card of business or proprietor
• Address proof of business premises
• List of directors or partners

Food Business Details

• Form B (FSSAI application form)
• Food category details
• Product list for export or import
• Authority letter for authorised signatory

Infrastructure & Compliance

• Layout plan of processing or storage unit (if applicable)
• Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT
• NOC from the municipality or local authority (where required)

Step-1 - Preparing Documentation

Step-2 - Filling Application

Step-3 - Paying the Government Fees

Step-4 - Submit the Application

Step-5 - Scrutinizing and Issuing the Certificate