How to Start Meat Export Business in India
- November 26, 2025
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How to Start Meat Export Business in India
India is one of the largest exporters of meat in the world. It exports a variety of meat products, including sheep and goat meat, carabeef, processed meat, chicken and animal casings. If you want to learn how to start a meat export business in India, then check out this blog! Here, we will explain all the requirements.
Why Start Meat Export Business in India?
India is one of the leading meat exporters across the globe. It exports to several countries such as the United States, Vietnam, Malaysia, Egypt, Iraq, Philippines, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
By starting a business that exports meat, you can reach countries where Indian meat is already in high demand, earn better profits through foreign exchange, rely on India’s strong supply chain to keep your operations smooth and steadily grow your business to new heights due to consistent global demand.
List of Meat Products Exported from India
Below, we have provided you with the list of common meat products exported from India. :-
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Buffalo Meat (Carabeef) - Frozen Boneless
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Buffalo Meat - Chilled/Frozen Cuts (Forequarter & Hindquarter)
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Goat Meat (Chevon) - Frozen Cuts
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Sheep Meat (Mutton) - Frozen Cuts
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Poultry Meat - Frozen Chicken Cuts
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Processed Buffalo Meat - Frozen Minced/Lean Meat
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Heat-Treated/Processed Poultry Products
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Edible Offal of Buffalo (Liver, Heart, Kidney)
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Edible Offal of Goat/Sheep
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Value-Added Meat Products (Salami, Sausages, Kebabs and Ready-to-Cook Meat Items)
Steps Required to Open a Meat Export Business
Below, we have mentioned all the necessary steps for setting up and running a meat export business. :-
Step 1:- Business Registration
The first step in opening a business that exports meat is to officially register your business. There are many business models to choose from like sole proprietorship, partnership firm, limited liability partnership or private limited company.
Each model offers its own unique advantages. If you need assistance in choosing the right model, you can connect with our company registration consultants for assistance.
Step 2:- Get an IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
To export pretty much anything from India, you must have an Import Export Code. It is a 10-digit code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
You can apply for the IEC online through the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade). Once you obtain it, it remains valid for a lifetime. However, its details must be updated annually to maintain its active status.
Step 3:- Register with APEDA
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is the concerned authority for handling the export of meat and related products. You need to register with this authority by applying for a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) on the DGFT portal. Also, make sure your meat processing unit is officially registered with APEDA.
Step 4:- Get an FSSAI License
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, abbreviated as FSSAI, is the food regulatory body in India. This body makes sure all food products are safe for human consumption. To sell meat, you need an FSSAI license, which you can apply for on the official FSSAI website.
Step 5:- Halal Certification
If you plan to export meat to countries where people follow Islamic laws, then it is necessary that you obtain a Halal certificate. This proves your meat is allowed for consumption according to Islamic rules.
The halal certificate in India is issued by private organizations accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB).
Step 6:- MPEDA Registration (In case of Marine Products)
If your meat includes fish or other marine products, you must register with the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA). You can apply for the registration online via the MPEDA portal and provide details about your processing unit, quality certificates and other documents.
Step 7:- Health Certificate for Export Shipment
Every meat shipment needs a Health Certificate. This shows your meat is safe for human consumption and meets the importing country’s necessary rules.
You must apply for the certificate online on the APEDA Meat Net portal, then get your processing unit inspected by the State Animal Husbandry Office.
Step 8:- Export Inspection Council Certification
The EIC certificate refers to Export Health Certificate (EHC) issued by Export Inspection Council (EIC) of India, which is the official certification body for Indian exports.
The EIC certificate proves your meat meets international quality standards. This makes exporting smoother for the export businesses.
Step 9:- Cold Chain Management System
You need a good cold chain system to make sure your meat stays fresh during storage and transport. Also, it is necessary that you follow the packaging and labeling rules of the country you’re exporting to.
Step 10:- Know Your Target Markets and Rules
You must learn about your target markets. First, you need to find out which countries have the highest demand for the meat products you offer. Then, you must learn about all their important import rules, quality standards set by their governments and documents needed before you begin exporting in those countries.
Step 11:- Stay Updated Regarding Latest Rules
Rules tend to change from time to time. Therefore, it is necessary that you keep checking updates from APEDA, MPEDA, FSSAI, DGFT and EIC. This way, you won’t miss out on anything important. Remember, if the rules change, you must ensure compliance with them to avoid trade disruption.
Conclusion
A meat export business is a business that exports meat and related products to other countries. To start this business in India, you need to make sure you fulfill all the legal as well as the regulatory requirements, such as obtaining the FSSAI license, APEDA registration, IEC registration and business registration certificate among other requirements.
Need assistance in APEDA registration? Connect with our professional consultants at Registrationwala. We will help you file an application with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and help you obtain the registration in a smooth and hassle free manner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is APEDA registration required for meat export business?
A. Yes, APEDA registration is mandatory for a meat export business.
Q2. Is IEC registration required for exporting meat from India?
A. Yes, to export meat and meat products from India, IEC registration is mandatory.
Q3. What kind of beef does India export to other countries?
A. India primarily exports buffalo meat (carabeef) to other countries.
Q4. Which country is the largest buffalo meat exporter in the world?
A. India is the largest buffalo meat exporter in the world.
Q5. Is FSSAI license required to export meat products from India to other countries?
A. Yes, FSSAI license is required to export meat products from India to other countries.
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