How to Export to the USA from India: Requirements, Trends & Top Products
- Parth Torawala
- Jun 13
- 4 min read
The United States is India’s largest trading partner, offering a trillion-dollar opportunity for Indian exporters. With rising interest in “China + 1” sourcing,
increased preference for Indian goods among NRIs, and supportive bilateral relations, 2025 is the ideal time for Indian businesses to export to the USA. From textiles to tech, handicrafts to pharmaceuticals, India exports a diverse range of goods to the US. With the rising cost of manufacturing in China and geopolitical shifts, American buyers are actively looking for alternative sourcing destinations, and India is their top choice.
USA's Import Outlook vs India’s Export Potential to the USA (2024–25): A Trillion-Dollar Opportunity
In 2024, the USA is expected to import $3.5 trillion+ worth of goods, as per USTR and World Bank projections.
Product Category | USA's Import Value (USD Billion) | India's Export to USA (USD Billion) | Opportunity Gap / Notes |
Machinery & Electronics | $400B | $4.5B | 🚀 Huge potential – less than 1.2% share, scope for manufacturing/export alliances |
Automotive & Spare Parts | $310B | $3.8B | 🚗 Moderate opportunity – niche EV/EV parts & aftermarket spares |
Pharmaceuticals & Medical | $215B | $10.2B | 💊 Strong presence, can expand with FDA-certified manufacturing |
Furniture & Decor | $110B | $2.4B (Handicrafts + Wooden Products) | 🪑 High potential – Indian artisanal and value-added wooden products |
Apparel & Footwear | $160B | $9.8B | 👕 Competitive sector – India has strong textile advantage |
Processed Foods & Spices | $80B | $2.1B | 🌶️ Rising demand – scope in ethnic, organic, and ready-to-eat food |
Packaging & Glassware | $85B | Data not separately listed | 📦 Underserved – emerging segment for Indian glass & packaging firms |
Gems, Jewelry & Precious Stones | N/A | $11.1B | 💍 Strong export – already a leading Indian export to the US |
Organic Chemicals | N/A | $5.6B | 🧪 Strong presence – India’s chemical industry has large export scope |
Why the USA Is Shifting from China to India?
India and the USA share one of the most strategic global partnerships:
USA is India’s #1 export destination.
Multiple MoUs and commercial dialogues focus on reducing trade barriers.
The India–US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) boosts collaboration in semiconductors, AI, clean energy, and manufacturing.
Reduction in tariffs on select goods (2025) for Indian exporters under new talks.
Both nations aim to double bilateral trade in the next 5 years.
Make in India attracts investment in electronics, pharma, auto
U.S. imports from China decline, India gains market share
India’s population and democracy make it a strategic alternative
The Indian Diaspora Effect: A Goldmine of Demand
There are 4.5 million+ Indians living in the US, and the diaspora is:
Brand loyal to Indian products like food, fashion, ayurveda, and festivals.
Key decision-makers in B2B procurement across sectors like IT, pharma,
hospitality, etc.
Promoting Made in India brands via eCommerce, retail, and Amazon US.
In diaspora hubs like California, New Jersey, Texas, and Illinois, Indian products enjoy high demand due to their cultural significance and appeal to the Indian-American community. Spices, ready-to-eat foods, and ayurvedic products are sought after for their authentic flavors and health benefits, catering to both traditional cooking and wellness trends. Ethnic wear, including wedding clothes and jewelry, remains popular for festivals, ceremonies, and cultural events, reflecting India’s rich textile and craftsmanship heritage. Wooden furniture, décor, and temple idols are valued for their aesthetic and spiritual resonance, enhancing homes and personal spaces. Yoga and wellness gear, such as copper bottles and incense, align with the growing focus on holistic living, while spiritual books and religious items meet the community’s demand for cultural and devotional resources.
Best Industries for New Exporters from India
USA FDA Registration for Indian Exporters
If you are exporting food, dietary supplements, cosmetics, or drugs to the USA, FDA registration is mandatory. Indian exporters must:
Register their facility on the FDA portal
Comply with US food safety norms (FSMA, DSHEA)
Ensure labeling, packaging, and batch codes are correct
Maintain importer contact for prior notice filing
Step-by-Step: How to Start Exporting to the USA
Get IEC code from DGFT
Choose a product with demand in the USA using tools like Trademap or Amazon research
Register with FSSAI or FDA, BSI (if applicable)
Check HS Code and pricing strategy
Find buyers using ExportAgent.in's Buyer Finder tool
Prepare key export documents like invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificate of origin
Choose a reliable CHA or freight forwarder for shipping and customs clearance
Reach out to US buyers via LinkedIn, email, and B2B platforms with your catalog and pricing
Send trial shipments to build buyer trust before scaling up
Track and collect payment via secure banking channels
Register your business and products on export directories and marketplaces
Monitor US market trends, pricing, and competitor products to stay ahead
How to Find USA Buyers for Indian Products
Use ExportAgent's Buyer Finder Tool – Just enter 4-digit HS Code and get US Importer data click
Search US importers on LinkedIn (“Import Manager, USA”)
Reverse-search brands on Amazon USA and contact them
Hire U.S.-based sales agents or distributors
Engage Indian embassies in USA for buyer introductions
Collaborate with U.S. trade associations
Visit U.S. markets and companies to build relationships
Exhibit at U.S. trade shows like New York NOW or MAGIC Las Vega
Register with EPCH, APEDA, FIEO & list on B2B portals like IndiaMART, Alibaba
How ExportAgent.in Helps You Succeed in the USA
ExportAgent.in empowers Indian manufacturers, traders, and exporters with intelligent tools and practical resources to thrive in the competitive U.S. market.
Buyer Finder Tool with verified U.S. importer data
Access to 500,000+ global company profiles across multiple industries
HS Code-based trend analysis to identify export opportunities
Export Readiness Kit with email templates and compliance checklists
Export Costing Calculator for accurate pricing and profitability
Thank you for reading this blog. At ExportAgent.in, our mission is to help Indian businesses go global. We are committed to supporting every aspiring exporter with the knowledge, tools, and insights needed to succeed in international trade—starting with the USA.
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