Step 1: Verify Basic Legal Registration (15 minutes)
Every legitimate Indian agro exporter must have these — all verifiable online:
| Document | How to Verify | Red Flag |
|---|---|---|
| IEC (Import Export Code) | dgft.gov.in → IEC search | No IEC = cannot legally export |
| APEDA RCMC | apeda.gov.in → member search | No APEDA = cannot export rice, spices, fruits |
| GSTIN | gst.gov.in → taxpayer search | No GSTIN = not a registered company in India |
| Company registration | mca.gov.in → company search | No MCA = potentially not a legal entity |
Step 2: Assess Export Track Record
- APEDA export data: Ask supplier for their APEDA export statistics — volume of exports = track record
- Bank reference letter: A reputable exporter's bank issues a reference letter confirming trade finance relationship
- Existing customer references: Ask for 2–3 international buyer references and contact them directly
- LinkedIn / Google presence: Legitimate exporters have a professional company page and searchable presence
Red Flags That Signal a High-Risk Supplier
- Refuses to show IEC, APEDA RCMC, or GSTIN
- Payment must go to an individual's personal bank account (not company account)
- Prices significantly below all other quotes — unrealistically cheap
- Cannot provide physical samples within 48 hours for a product they claim to stock
- Communication only via WhatsApp with no company email domain
- APEDA data shows very low or zero exports despite claiming large volumes
Step 3: Protect Your First Shipment
- Use LC (Letter of Credit) rather than TT until 2–3 successful transactions completed
- Insist on SGS or Bureau Veritas loading inspection
- Request pre-shipment lab CoA for pesticide MRLs, mycotoxins, and heavy metals
- Keep first order to 1–2 containers maximum — test before scaling
- Get marine cargo insurance covering CIF value + 10%
About JFT Agro Overseas
JFT Agro Overseas is a Government Recognized Star Export House and APEDA registered exporter, ISO 9001:2015 certified, FSSAI licensed, and AEO status holder, exporting Indian agro commodities since 1980 to 20+ countries. All verification documents available at jftagro.com/certificates.html or on request.