How to Legally Export Chemicals from India: Licensing, DGFT & REACH Guide (2025)

🌍 Introduction: Why Exporting Chemicals from India Is a Profitable Opportunity

India’s chemical industry is the 6th largest producer in the world and a top exporter to the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. From phenyl and adhesives to bulk industrial chemicals, Indian manufacturers are seeing massive demand overseas.

If you’re a chemical manufacturer or trader, exporting products can give you:

• 💰 Higher profits
• 🌍 International brand reputation
• 📈 Large volume orders
• 🏦 Access to global B2B buyers
• ✅ Low competition in niche segments

However, exporting chemicals requires legal documentation, compliance with international regulations, and product safety labeling. This detailed guide walks you through how to legally export chemicals from India in 2025, step by step.

🧾 Step 1: Decide Which Chemicals You Want to Export

Not all chemicals are export-friendly. Some are restricted or hazardous, and require special permissions. First, finalize which chemical or formulation you want to export.

Popular Export Chemicals from India:

• Liquid floor cleaner
• Toilet cleaner (HCL-based)
• Black/white phenyl
• Adhesives (PVA-based)
• Industrial solvents
• Surfactants and raw materials
• Detergents & shampoo base
• Agrochemicals (fertilizers, bio-pesticides)

🧾 Step 2: Get IEC (Import Export Code) from DGFT

To export any product from India, including chemicals, you must obtain an IEC (Import Export Code).

✅ Where to Apply:

• Visit the official DGFT portal: https://www.dgft.gov.in

Required Documents:

• PAN card
• GST certificate
• Address proof
• Bank account details
• Digital signature (DSC)

⏱️ Time: 1–3 working days
💰 Fee: Around ₹500–₹2,000 (depending on consultant)

📦 Step 3: Classify Your Product Under the Right HS Code

Every chemical must be exported under a correct HS (Harmonized System) Code, which helps in:

• Duty calculation
• Legal classification
• Country-specific rules

Example HS Codes:

• Phenyl: 34029091
• Detergent powder: 34029012
• Toilet cleaner (acid-based): 34022010
• Shampoo: 33051090
• Adhesives: 35061000

💡 You can verify the HS code on ICEGATE or consult a CHA (customs house agent).

🧾 Step 4: Check If the Product Is Restricted or Hazardous

Some chemicals are restricted under the Foreign Trade Policy of India, especially if they are:

• Explosive
• Flammable
• Corrosive
• Toxic to marine life
• Environmentally hazardous

⚠️ If Restricted:

You will need export permission from DGFT and the Ministry of Chemicals. The following documents might be required:

• Safety Data Sheet (SDS or MSDS)
• End-use certificate
• Labeling with hazard symbols (GHS)
• BIS or ISO certification (in some cases)
• NOC from State Pollution Control Board

For general cleaning chemicals, this is usually not needed, but check each product’s classification.

🌐 Step 5: REACH Registration (If Exporting to Europe)

REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) is a mandatory regulation in the European Union.

If you’re exporting more than 1 tonne of a chemical per year to Europe, you must either:

• Register under REACH
• Use an Only Representative (OR) in the EU to handle it

📋 Documents Required:

• Product composition (100%)
• Toxicology and eco-toxicity data
• Safety measures
• Production volume

💰 REACH registration can cost ₹2–5 lakh depending on product and OR fees.

✅ If you’re exporting to UAE, Bangladesh, Nepal, or Africa — REACH is not required, but GHS labeling and MSDS still apply.

📋 Step 6: Prepare Export Documentation

When your order is ready, you’ll need to prepare export documents:

📦 List of Documents:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
• Certificate of Origin (COO)
• MSDS
• Shipping instructions
• Insurance documents
• Buyer’s Purchase Order
• GHS-compliant Labeling
• Any required certificates (ISO, BIS, FSSAI, etc.)

💡 Tip: Hire a CHA (customs house agent) to prepare and file these documents.

🧪 Step 7: Labeling & Packaging for International Shipment

International chemical shipments must follow GHS (Globally Harmonized System) for classification and labeling.

🏷 GHS Label Must Have:

• Product name
• Hazard class (flammable, irritant, etc.)
• GHS pictogram(s)
• Signal word (Danger/Warning)
• Manufacturer name and address
• Precautionary statements
• Batch number and expiry date

Use high-quality HDPE drums, IBC tanks, or UN-certified jerry cans depending on volume.

📤 Step 8: Logistics & Freight Forwarding

You can ship via:

• Sea Freight (FCL, LCL) — most common for large orders
• Air Cargo — faster but expensive
• Courier Export — for samples

📦 Key Export Ports for Chemicals in India:

• Nhava Sheva (JNPT), Mumbai
• Mundra Port, Gujarat
• Chennai Port
• Kolkata Port

Partner with a freight forwarder who has experience in hazardous material shipping (IMO Class 8, 9, etc.)

💵 Step 9: Pricing & Payment Terms

Research competitor pricing in the target country using:

• IndiaMART (for domestic base price)
• Alibaba & Amazon Global (for international rates)
• GlobalTrade or Connect2India

Common Export Payment Modes:

• Advance payment
• Letter of Credit (LC)
• Documents against Payment (D/P)

✅ Always use a bank-recognized method to ensure safe payment and avoid scams.

🎯 Step 10: Find International Buyers

There are many platforms to list your chemical products:

You can also participate in trade expos like CHEMSPEC, ArabLab, and IndiaChem to find large buyers.

🧠 Expert Tips to Maximize Profits

✅ Focus on low-cost but high-demand chemicals like:

• Floor cleaner
• Phenyl concentrate
• Detergent base
• Herbal handwash
• Private label adhesives

✅ Partner with a compliance consultant to fast-track documentation

✅ Use bulk packaging (25L, 50L, 200L) to reduce transport costs

✅ Register your chemical brand under Trademark Act for long-term security

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Skipping MSDS or wrong labeling = customs rejection
❌ Using improper packaging = leakage or ban
❌ No IEC or DGFT permission = penalty or seizure
❌ Wrong HS code = tax loss
❌ Not verifying buyer = payment fraud

Always follow the checklist and consult licensed agents when needed.

📈 Final Thoughts: Exporting Chemicals Is Easier Than You Think

With the right guidance, small and medium chemical manufacturers can start exporting from India within 30–60 days.

You don’t need a huge plant. Even home-based chemical units can export cleaners, shampoos, phenyl, dish wash, and more if you meet the minimum legal and quality standards.

Start with small shipments, build buyer trust, and grow your international business.

🚀 Ready to Start?
👉 Download our free export documentation checklist and get access to verified freight forwarders and compliance experts.