Chilli Export from India: Complete Guide for Global Buyers

India’s spice heritage is world-famous, and chillies are a cornerstone of its global trade. When it comes to the chilli export from India, the country holds a leadership position in production and international shipments. This guide walks global buyers through key insights, data, codes, markets, and the top players in this vibrant sector.

1. Overview of Chilli Trade in India

India produces nearly two million metric tons of chillies annually, making it the top producer globally. The tropical climate, long growing seasons, and strong agricultural networks support large-scale cultivation year after year. Although only a portion of what is grown enters global trade, Indian chillies have significant demand across continents.

Approximately 30 percent of India’s chilli crop enters global markets, while the rest is consumed domestically. Still, the export of chilli from India remains a core source of foreign revenue and helps sustain thousands of farmers and traders.

2. Key Export Statistics

In recent years, chilli exports have shown robust volumes and growing interest among buyers:

• Export volume 2023–24: Around 28,732 metric tons of chillies valued at roughly INR 6,000 crores.

• Chilli shipments 2024–25: India’s dry chillies and red chilli shipments exceeded 69,000, underscoring the global appetite for Indian spice products.

This growth reflects the reliability and global trust in India’s spice quality and supply chain.

3. Types of Chillies Exported

India exports a wide range of chilli products to suit diverse buyer needs:

a. Dry Red Chillies

Dried red chillies are the dominant category in Indian spice exports. Their longer shelf life and robust flavour make them preferred for food processing and culinary use abroad.

b. Green Chillies

Fresh green chillies also command exports, particularly to Middle Eastern and European buyers, but in lower quantities compared to dried ones.

c. Value-Added Forms

Other forms such as chilli powder, crushed chillies, and sauce derivatives extend the market reach for Indian producers.

4. Understanding Chilli HS Codes

For smooth customs clearance and compliance, proper HS code classification is essential. These codes help buyers and customs officials identify the exact product being traded. Top HS code categories include:

• 09042110: Dried, not crushed or ground chillies.

• 09042211 & 09042219: Crushed or ground chilli products.

• 07096010: Fresh green chillies.

• 21039020: Chilli sauces.

These classifications serve as the backbone for product categorization, pricing, and documentation.

5. Major Export Destinations

Indian chillies are welcomed across the globe, with strong market presence in:

• United States

• United Arab Emirates

• United Kingdom

• Saudi Arabia

These countries import Indian chillies in both raw and processed formats, reflecting broad culinary uses and consistent demand.

6. Top Chilli Exporting Countries Globally

While India leads the world in chilli shipments, other nations also contribute significant volumes to international spice trade:

1. India – Largest exporter in terms of shipments and value.

2. Vietnam – Major regional competitor.

3. Thailand – Strong presence in Southeast Asian markets.

4. China and Brazil – Represent growing players in chilli supply.

These countries shape global chilli trade dynamics alongside India’s strong output.

7. Leading Indian Players You Should Know

For buyers seeking partnerships, knowing the established Indian chilli exporters is key. Top contributors include:

• Vora Spices

• NK Agro

• Pramoda Exim Corporation

• Sanovi Overseas

• Geewin Exim

• JRP Index

• Spice Route Inc.

• South Land Trading

• Basil Food Export

These suppliers help fulfill large global orders and operate quality-driven supply chains.

8. How Chilli Exports Work – Buyer′s Perspective

If you’re planning procurement, understanding the export process helps reduce friction:

1. Product Classification: Choose the correct HS code for the chilli type you want to import.

2. Documentation: Ensure export paperwork such as commercial invoices, certificates of origin, and packing lists are complete.

3. Quality Checks: Demand pre-shipment inspections to confirm moisture, taste, and grading.

4. Logistics: Decide between sea freight for bulk orders or air freight for urgent, smaller consignments.

Proper adherence to these steps ensures a smooth import and enhances long-term sourcing relationships.

9. Global Market Insights and Trends

India’s chilli trade continues to evolve. Growing international demand and new route access have helped stabilise export volumes even when global production fluctuates in other countries. Red chilli export from India remains a key driver, especially for culinary industries that prize flavour and heat.

Exporters continually adapt to the preferences of buyers from different regions, ensuring varieties like Teja, Byadgi and Kashmiri chillies meet both quality and regulatory expectations.

Conclusion

For global buyers, sourcing Indian chillies means access to diverse products, competitive pricing, and a well-established supply ecosystem. Exploring the dry chilli HS code, reviewing comprehensive chilli export data, and connecting with reputable suppliers are essential steps to success. Partnering with reliable information services such as Export Import Data Provider ensures accurate insights and better decision-making.

Whether you are importing dried spice shipments or exploring long-term contracts with red chilli exporters in India, platforms like ExportImportData.in offer detailed shipment figures, market intelligence, and supplier directories to support your strategy.