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India is one of the leading producers and exporters of fresh drumsticks (Moringa pods) in the world. Known for their rich nutrition and demand in countries like the UAE, UK, USA, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore, drumsticks have become a profitable export item for Indian farmers and exporters.

If you’ve ever wondered how to export drumsticks from India, this detailed guide by Harvest Food EXIM will walk you through every step from registration and documentation to packaging and shipping to help you start your own successful drumstick export business.

Understanding the Global Demand for Drumsticks

The demand for fresh and processed drumsticks is increasing rapidly across international markets. According to the APEDA export report (2023–24), India exports over $55 million worth of Moringa and drumstick-related products annually.

The major importing countries include:

• United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• United Kingdom (UK)
• United States (USA)
• Saudi Arabia
• Singapore
• Qatar

Drumsticks are valued for their high nutritional benefits — rich in Vitamin C, calcium, and antioxidants and are used in both culinary and medicinal applications. With the global shift towards healthy and organic food, Indian drumsticks are gaining even more popularity.

Why Choose Drumstick Export as a Business?

Starting a drumstick export business offers several advantages:

• High Profit Margins: Export prices can be 3–5 times higher than domestic rates.
• Steady Global Demand: Used in South Indian, African, and Southeast Asian cuisines.
• Low Investment: Farmers can easily cultivate drumsticks on small lands with minimal resources.
• Long Shelf Life: Fresh drumsticks can last up to 2–3 weeks when packed properly.
• Scope for Value Addition: Products like drumstick powder, Moringa oil, and dried pods have growing export demand.

At Harvest Food EXIM, we help Indian farmers and small-scale traders connect with verified global buyers for consistent and profitable export opportunities.

How to Start Drumstick Export from India

If you’re planning to export drumsticks, you must follow a few legal and logistic steps. Here’s a simple breakdown:

1. Register Your Business

   You need to register your export business as one of the following:

   • Proprietorship
   • Partnership Firm
   • Private Limited Company

   Also, get a GST number and PAN for your business.

2. Obtain Import Export Code (IEC)

   The IEC code is mandatory for every exporter in India. You can apply for it online via the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) website.

   Without an IEC, customs authorities will not allow export clearance.

3. Register with APEDA

   To export agricultural products like drumsticks, register under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). This registration provides:

   • Access to export data
   • Market development schemes
   • Financial assistance
   • Buyer-seller meets
4. Select Target Countries

   Do proper market research to identify the best export destinations for drumsticks.

   • For fresh drumsticks, UAE and Saudi Arabia are top buyers.
   • For Moringa powder or value-added products, USA, UK, and Europe have great demand.
5. Find Reliable Buyers or Importers

   You can find buyers through:

   • B2B platforms like Alibaba, TradeIndia, ExportersIndia, and IndiaMART
   • Government trade portals like APEDA Buyer-Seller Meet
   • Export agencies or commission agents

   At Harvest Food EXIM, we have an active network of global buyers and can help Indian suppliers connect directly to importers.

6. Quality Standards and Certifications

   Export-quality drumsticks must meet international standards.

   • Follow Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
   • Maintain residue-free cultivation
   • Ensure proper grading, sorting, and packaging

   For better acceptance, certifications like Organic Certification, FSSAI, HACCP, or Global GAP are highly recommended.

7. Packaging & Labeling Requirements

   Proper packaging ensures the drumsticks remain fresh until they reach the destination.

   • Use corrugated boxes with ventilation holes
   • Wrap each bundle with poly film to retain moisture
   • Label boxes with product name, weight, origin (India), and handling instructions

   Exporters can also use Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) for better shelf life.

8. Shipping & Logistics

   You can export drumsticks by air freight or sea freight depending on your order size:

   • Air Freight: Best for fresh drumsticks, ensures faster delivery (within 3–5 days)
   • Sea Freight: Suitable for bulk dry or processed drumsticks

   Major export ports include Chennai, Mumbai, Kochi, and Tuticorin.

9. Required Documents for Drumstick Export

   Here’s a list of documents required:

   • IEC Code Certificate
   • APEDA Registration
   • Commercial Invoice
   • Packing List
   • Phytosanitary Certificate
   • Certificate of Origin
   • FSSAI Certificate
   • Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
   • Export Contract / Purchase Order

   All documentation must comply with customs and plant quarantine norms.

How Harvest Food EXIM Helps Drumstick Exporters

At Harvest Food EXIM, we specialize in sourcing, processing, and exporting premium-quality drumsticks from India to global markets. Our services include:

• Sourcing fresh, residue-free drumsticks directly from farms
• Quality inspection and grading
• Custom packaging solutions
• Complete export documentation
• Logistics and shipment support

We ensure our clients enjoy hassle-free exports with timely delivery and competitive pricing.

Tips to Succeed in Drumstick Export Business

• Build strong relationships with farmers for consistent supply.
• Maintain high hygiene and quality during packaging.
• Study the import regulations of your target countries.
• Start small with sample shipments and scale up gradually.
• Use digital marketing and B2B platforms to attract overseas buyers.

Consistency and quality are key once buyers trust your product, they usually become long-term clients.

Profit Margin in Drumstick Export

Depending on destination and logistics, exporters earn around:

• ₹60–₹80 per kg (domestic)
• ₹180–₹250 per kg (export)

That’s nearly 3x to 4x profit margin, making drumstick export a highly profitable venture if managed efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is an IEC code mandatory for drumstick export?

Yes, an Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT is mandatory for all exporters in India.

What are the main countries importing drumsticks from India?

UAE, USA, UK, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Qatar are among the top importers.

How can I find foreign buyers for drumsticks?

You can find verified buyers through B2B websites, trade fairs, export promotion councils, or with the help of export facilitators like Harvest Food EXIM.

How long do fresh drumsticks last during export?

When properly packed, they can last up to 2–3 weeks under controlled temperature and humidity.

What certifications are needed for exporting drumsticks?

Common certifications include APEDA, FSSAI, Phytosanitary Certificate, and Global GAP depending on buyer requirements.

Conclusion

Exporting drumsticks from India is a profitable and sustainable business opportunity especially for new exporters and agro-entrepreneurs. With the right guidance, certifications, and quality control, you can easily enter the international market.

At Harvest Food EXIM, we’re proud to support Indian farmers and exporters in reaching global markets with 100% fresh, chemical-free drumsticks.

Start your export journey today Partner with Harvest Food EXIM and take your products from Indian farms to international tables!