How to Start an Export Business from India to Dubai?

Overseas trading, especially exporting from India to Dubai can prove to be a very profitable venture. Since Dubai is a renowned hub for exports and India has good production facilities, starting up an export business between the two regions can be a very feasible idea. Below we have compiled some requirements and useful information for starting an export business from India to Dubai.

Conduct Market Research and Choose the Perfect Niche

A thorough analysis of the market demand in Dubai can be very essential when it comes to setting up an export business. Search which products are most preferred in Dubai or which product is in high demand. For instance, Indian items such as apparel, ornaments, spices, electronics, drugs, cosmetics, etc. are generally welcomed. Examine the competition and the prices to determine how the specific product may align within the market.

Trade Regulations for Exporting in India

For exporting from India, one has to obtain an Import Export Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade [DGFT]. This 10-digit code is required in every cross-border transaction and enables you to engage in international business. Satisfy other legal requirements, if any, like the product-specific export licenses or certificates as the case may be.

Steps to Obtain IEC:

Visit the DGFT portal.
The prospective customer fills in the application form accompanied by the necessary documents.
Submit the fee and wait to receive the code.

Importer’s Guide to Dubai Import Regulations

Dubai follows its general standard of import regulation and procedure. The Dubai Customs Authority regulates all matters concerning imports and expects precise declarations for the goods being imported.

To start exporting to Dubai, you’ll need to:

1. Register with the Customs Office of Dubai
2. Learn about the product codes that are used in Dubai known as the HS Codes
3. Comply with Dubai’s standards of labelling and packaging that may apply differently depending on the type of product.

Setting up Business Structure in Dubai

Currently, exporting products to Dubai may be easier and more credible once you have a base there. A Dubai free zone is a suitable place for foreign exporters to start a business as it permits full-fledged ownership and exemption from taxes. Some of the most known free zones for trading businesses include Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA), and Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC).

Check Out: Business Setup in Dubai

Build Supply Chain and Logistics

Logistics play a critical role in determining the success of any export business in today’s world. Select a freight forwarding company that has experience in exporting the kind of goods that you intend to transport to Dubai. Determine if the transportation of goods will be done by air or through sea transport depending on its cost, type, and level of urgency. Make sure that prospective products meet the packing and labelling standards of Dubai.

With reliable logistics partners, you will also be able to navigate and coordinate with customs so that your products arrive in Dubai, whole and on time.

Create Connections within Dubai’s Consumer Base

Establishing relationships with the target consumers in Dubai is crucial for sustaining the business in the long run. The other ways of interacting with distributors, wholesalers, and retailers are through trade fairs and other online marketplaces and business linking services. Forming a bond with locals and residents will help to have a better grasp of market conditions and guarantee a constant flow of consumers.

Manage Financial Transactions

It is essential to establish an efficient mechanism for dealing with international payments. Letters of Credit (LC) or open account terms are the two arrangements that are most commonly used by export businesses. Consult your bank and discuss the charges, rates, and duration of a respective export from India to Dubai.

You can also seek to use credit insurance and this insulates your business against those uncomfortable shocks of non-payment or delayed payment.

Focus on Marketing and Branding

Marketing is very important especially when launching your brand within a particular market such as Dubai. Conduct an online promotion campaign through social media outlets, B2B websites, and Google ads targeting the Dubai market. It will ensure that more clients are attracted to your business since the products are unique, high quality, and suit the Dubai market.

Compliance with Tax Regulations

An export business may be liable for taxes such as corporate tax, VAT, and excise tax. It is necessary to engage with a tax consultation and advisory services for assistance in these matters.

Keep Export Documents Ready

Any export consignment from India to Dubai will need some documents as stated below. Some of the essential documents include:

1. Commercial Invoice
2. Packing List
3. Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
4. Certificate of Origin
5. Export license Number (if any)

Note: Additional documents may be required on a case-to-case basis.

Read more about Dubai business license

These documents should be prepared accurately to avoid problems during customs procedures in Dubai.

The potential of any exporting business from India to Dubai must be planned effectively, by knowing the legalities and getting the right connections. Undertaking these procedures and tips will make it easy to diversify into the market and make huge profits. If you want to establish a business with minimum formalities and maximum profits, InZone can assist with expert advice and setup of an export business.