How to Export Onions from India
Onion is one of the most sought vegetables in the global market, with India among the largest manufacturers and exporters. To export onions from India, companies must follow certain stages:
- Register with APEDA (Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority).
- Get an Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) from the Directorate for Foreign Trade (DGFT).
- Meet quality and packaging standards set by import countries.
- Participate with reliable logistics suppliers to ensure freshness and timely distribution.
By following these stages, Indian exporters can successfully grow the onion export market.
Onion Export Regulations / Documentation
Onion exports require strict compliance with government rules and international standards. Main documents include:
- Phytosanitary Certificate (to confirm the product is free from pests and diseases).
- Certificate of Origin (to verify the product’s origin).
- Commercial Invoice & Packing List (for shipment details).
- Customs and Shipping Bills (as per DGFT guidelines).
In addition, onion exports are sometimes subject to state limitations due to ups and downs in domestic value. Exports should stay up to date with information from India’s government to avoid disruptions.
Onion Export Price per Ton / Global Onion Prices
Global onion prices vary on the basis of weather, demand and import. Usually, prices between USD 250-450 per ton occur depending on quality, packaging and freight routes.
- Middle East and Asian markets usually demand red onions.
- European countries often prefer yellow and white onions.
Monitoring of market trends and updates on ups and downs helps exporters to remain competitive.
Top Onion Importing Countries
India exports onions to more than 100 countries around the world. Some of the top imported countries include:
- Bangladesh
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Malaysia
- Sri Lanka
- Nepal
- Saudi Arabia
- United States (for specific varieties)
These countries prefer Indian onions because of their strong taste, long shelf life and competitive prices.
Best Onion Varieties for Export
Not all onion variants are equally suitable for export. The most popular are onions of export quality:
- Red Onion – Widely exported to Middle East, Asia, and African markets.
- White Onion – Popular in Europe and USA due to mild flavor.
- Yellow Onion – Preferred for industrial processing and storage.
- Dehydrated Onions – Used in packaged food industries.
High durability, similar size and proper treatment make these variants ideal for international trade.
Challenges in Onion Export Business
Despite the growing demand, onion exporters face many challenges:
- Price ups and downs: Domestic deficiency often affects export opportunities.
- Government restrictions: Temporary restrictions or export limits may interfere with the shipment.
- Logistics Issues: Onions deteriorate and require efficient transport.
- Quality compliance: Different countries have strict quality controls that exporters must meet.
- Global Competition: Other onion exports such as China, Egypt and the Netherlands create difficult competition.
To overcome these challenges, strong sources, proper storage functions and reliable logistics and partnerships are required.
JK International – Your Trusted Onion Export Partner
In JK International, we specialize in providing high quality onions in global markets. With specialization in export rules, proper documentation and world-class packaging, we ensure that our customers get the onions that meet international quality standards.
Whether you are a wholesaler, distributor or dealer, JK International offers a reliable supply chain for fresh onions around the world.
- Categories:
- All