Establishing an Organisation - To start the export business, first a sole Proprietary concern/ Partnership firm/ Company has to be set up as per procedure with an attractive name and logo.

Opening a Bank Account - A current account with a Bank authorized to deal in Foreign Exchange should be opened.

Obtaining Permanent Account Number (PAN) - It is necessary for every exporter and importer to obtain a PAN from the Income Tax Department.

Obtaining Importer- Exporter Code (IEC) Number - Application for obtaining IEC Number can either be submitted at the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) website or with the regional authority of DGFT.

Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) - For availing authorization to import/ export or any other benefits under Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), exporters are required to obtain RCMC granted by the concerned Export Promotion Councils.

Selection of Product - All items are freely exportable except a few that appear in the prohibited/ restricted list. Proper selection of the product(s) to be exported may be made after studying the export trends.

Selection of Markets - An overseas market should be selected after a comprehensive study of market size, competition, quality requirements, payment terms and export benefits available.

Finding Buyers - Trade fairs, buyer seller meets, exhibitions, B2B portals are quite effective to find buyers. A multilingual product catalogue would also help.

Sampling - Provide customized samples as per the demands of foreign buyers to get orders. Exports of bonafide trade and technical samples shall be allowed without any limit.

Pricing/Costing - The goal should be to sell maximum quantity at competitive price with maximum profit margin. Preparing an export costing sheet for every export product.

Negotiation with Buyers - After determining the buyer's interest in the product, future prospects and continuity in business, demand for giving reasonable allowance/discount in price may be considered.

Covering Risks through ECGC - Where an overseas buyer is placing order without making advance payment or opening Letter of Credit, it is advisable to procure credit limits from ECGC.