How to Find Suppliers in India

How to Find Reliable Suppliers when sourcing products from India

Are you looking to source from India? if so, It’s a great decision as the opportunities are endless. But knowing where to Find reliable suppliers in India and choosing the right ones is the key to product sourcing success.

In this blog, we will cover most effective methods to find reliable suppliers in India online, four checkpoints that you can use to vet Indian suppliers which will help you determine if a supplier is legitimate, export focused, has their own manufacturing unit, and is a quality supplier and best sourcing practices so you can source products from India effectively and profitably and build long lasting supply chain relationships.

Introduction

India’s export sector is continuously growing with businesses all over the world diversifying sourcing to India. India’s merchandise exports have seen significant growth, reaching approximately $778 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, up from $466 billion in 2013-14—a 67% increase. This growth has elevated India’s share in global merchandise exports from 1.66% to 1.81%, improving its global ranking from 20th to 17th position. (Source: IBEF)

As per IBEF, Key export destinations showing strong growth in October 2024 included Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, anticipates that the India’s goods and services exports will surpass US$825 billion, even amidst current global economic challenges.

But Sourcing products effectively and profitably from India requires finding reliable suppliers, which can feel overwhelming for those just starting out. With India’s vast manufacturing landscape and countless options, identifying the right supplier takes research and effort particularly since there is no one platform to find suppliers.

Nevertheless, there are some really simple and effective methods you can use to find the right supplier for you, and start sourcing from India with confidence.

Before we dive in, I want to stress just how important it is to find the right supplier. Suppliers can make or break your business, so it’s absolutely crucial that you take the time to do your due diligence and find a supplier you can trust.

By going through these methods and tips in this blog you’ll feel much more confident about sourcing from India.

How to Find Reliable Suppliers in India

Below are Five most effective methods to finding suppliers in India–

Attending Domestic Trade Fairs in India

Attending domestic trade shows and conferences is one of the most effective ways to meet potential suppliers in person. These events provide an opportunity

Attending trade fairs gives you immediate access to top Best suppliers in India and helps you build a valuable directory of contacts. You can closely inspect products, discuss costs and MOQs, and receive answers to your questions on the spot. Additionally, trade fairs are a great way to spot emerging trends and strengthen connections with suppliers. For example Delhi Fair or IHGF fair is India’s Biggest Handicrafts Fair.

To stay up-to-date about Trade fairs, exhibitions, events happening in India for various product Categories you can visit the website of India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) where you can find complete details.

TradeIndia lists both domestic and international trade fairs, exhibitions, and expos across multiple sectors.

Various Export Promotion Councils under Government of India share details of trade shows relevant to their specific sectors.

Attending International Trade Fairs

International trade shows featuring Indian suppliers are another excellent avenue.

Indian suppliers actively participate in numerous international trade fairs, showcasing their products and services to a global audience and allow you to explore diverse products from Indian suppliers without visiting India. There are a lot of Trade Fairs that happen in different countries for different product categories and Below are few examples-

Canton Fair in Guangzhou, China
Ambiente and Heimtextil in Frankfurt, Germany
Autumn and Spring Fair in Birmingham, UK
Maison & Objet in Paris, France
The International Sourcing Show in Melbourne, Australia

You may consider finding trade fairs happening in your country of import or nearby for your product category by searching on google.

Export Promotion Councils in India

In India, there are export promotion councils for most products being exported, providing dedicated support to exporters. These councils act as a bridge between the government and the industry, helping businesses access global markets, participate in trade fairs, and comply with export regulations. They maintain detailed databases of exporters in India and serve as a resource for importers looking to reliable suppliers in India.

For example, the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) caters to jewellery exporters, while the Jute Products Development and Export Promotion Council (JPDEPC) supports jute product manufacturers.

Explore Online Directories

Online directories like Global Sources and Alibaba are also popular websites to for find Indian suppliers. These platforms allow you to filter by location and connect with export-focused manufacturers.

However, directories such as Indiamart and Tradeindia, while widely used, often list domestic sellers who may lack export licenses or manufacturing capabilities, are intermediaries rather than direct producers. It’s important to exercise caution when using these platforms and most top Exporters in India are not even listed there.

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If you prefer a more hands-on approach, we also provide online video courses to help equip you with all the information so you can find Best Suppliers in India and have an entire contact directory of suppliers in minutes. Click here to Get all the details about Finding Indian Suppliers Courses.

How to Vet Suppliers in India Online

Below are four checkpoints that you can use to vet Indian suppliers which will help you determine if a supplier is legitimate, export focused, has their own manufacturing unit, and is a quality supplier.

Of course, there’s no substitute for visiting a supplier’s factory and meeting them in person but there are other ways to vet suppliers and make sure you’re working with a reliable supplier in India.

Is the supplier registered with Export Promotion Council?

Whether a supplier is legitimate is the first and most important step in sourcing products from India! And the best way to verify if a supplier is legitimate and export focused is by checking if it is registered with Export Promotion Council of India. This not only validates the authenticity of the supplier but also confirms that they have an IEC Code – Import Export Number, which is mandatory for engaging in Import Export trade. And if a supplier has a RCMC – Registration Cum Membership Certificate, issued by the export promotion council, it further validates that they are a registered exporter dealing in products authorized by the Indian Government.

Checking if a supplier is registered with EPC (Export Promotion Council) is actually quite easy. Just identify the relevant export promotion council based on the product category and look up their member directory to see if the exporter is listed. This simple check can save you a lot of trouble down the line and ensure that you are working with a legitimate and export-focused supplier.

Does the supplier participate in Trade shows?

Another way to ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate and reputable supplier, then checking if they participate in trade shows is definitely the way to go! And not just any trade shows, we’re talking about the biggest and most popular ones like the IHGF – Indian Handicrafts and Gifts fair and the IIGF- India International Garment Fair. Only registered exporters are eligible to participate in these fairs, so you can be sure that the suppliers you find there are not only legitimate but also export-focused!

By participating in trade shows, these suppliers are showing that they have a range of quality products and financial capacity to put themselves out there. And the best part is, you don’t even have to attend the trade show to find out if your supplier is exhibiting! You can simply visit the trade fair’s website and check the list of exhibitors to see if your exporter is on the list. It’s as easy as that!

Check RCMC (Registration Cum Membership Certificate)

To ensure that you are dealing with an actual manufacturer, you can try three simple methods.

Firstly, you can check the supplier’s RCMC ( Registration cum Membership Certificate), which will clearly state whether the company is registered as a manufacturer exporter or a merchant exporter or a manufacturer cum merchant exporter. You can even ask the supplier directly if they are an exporter and request their company profile and RCMC. This will help you to add them to your supplier’s list and qualify them for your business.

Secondly, you can search for the supplier’s GST Number on Google and use it to look up their details on GST.gov.in. This platform provides information about the supplier’s core business activity, helping you verify if they are actually manufacturers of their products.

Another way to verify if the supplier is an actual manufacturer is by checking their product range. Every manufacturer specializes in a particular type of product or material. For instance, a supplier that specializes in Jute will have a vast range of Jute products. However, if the supplier offers a wide variety of products, including materials that are not related to their specialization, it may indicate that they are a middleman or a merchant exporter.

Sourcing Success with Indian Suppliers

Learn How to Find Best Reliable Indian suppliers using our Proven Methods and Strategies.

How to Source Products from India effectively and Build great relationships with suppliers in India

In today’s competitive business environment, the effectiveness of your supply chain can profoundly influence your company’s success. When you start sourcing products from India, obtaining the best prices and securing favorable contracts are crucial, the true value will often stem from the quality of the relationships you cultivate with your suppliers. Strong, well-maintained supplier partnerships can yield significant benefits, such as preferential pricing, innovative product ideas, and more efficient problem resolution. By implementing these strategies, you can ensure that your India sourcing efforts not only address your immediate needs but also lay the groundwork for sustained, long-term success.

Getting Off to the Right Start with Indian Suppliers

Getting off to a strong start when sourcing products from India is crucial. Always use reliable sources and platforms to find suppliers in India. Attending trade shows and conferences in India offers a valuable opportunity to meet potential suppliers in person, build relationships, and directly evaluate their products. Before contacting potential Indian suppliers, verify their legitimacy, confirm they are genuine manufacturers or exporters, assess their infrastructure, and check for accreditations to ensure they meet international quality standards. Working with a local agent or consultant can help you navigate cultural and language barriers, negotiate deals, and address potential issues if you are sourcing your products from India for the first time.

Identifying Core Capabilities when selecting suppliers

It’s essential to begin by contacting a wide range of suppliers and gradually narrow them down after careful evaluation.As you progress in your buying journey, build a roster of key suppliers for each product category, focusing on their strengths and core capabilities that align with your business values. It’s important to ensure that these suppliers fully understand your business, including who they are serving and what your expectations are. Knowing who your ideal suppliers are allows you to better align your business goals with your supply chain for maximum benefit. Regularly revisit and assess their performance, particularly in terms of responsiveness and process efficiency, to continually reduce production costs and optimize your partnerships.

Choose a Supplier That Values Your Business

At first, it may seem tempting to partner with a large supplier with an impressive roster of international clients. However, this might not be the best approach. For these big suppliers, your business might not be a top priority, as they are more focused on serving their larger, more established clients. This could mean less attention to your specific needs and less flexibility in meeting your requirements. Instead, consider partnering with smaller manufacturing units that can grow alongside your business. These suppliers are more likely to treat you as a key client, offering personalized attention and going the extra mile to meet your needs. They are often more flexible and open to building relationships with new entrepreneurs, which can be invaluable as you establish and expand your business. While choosing a smaller supplier, it’s crucial to ensure they have a capable setup with enough production capacity and strong financial stability to consistently deliver quality products.

The Power of Intangibles in Building Lasting Partnerships

In business, relationships are the foundation of success. Beyond the transactions, it’s crucial to prioritize intangible aspects like building strong partnerships, especially when sourcing products in India. A mutually beneficial business relationship thrives on transparency, respect, and genuine engagement—such as visiting the supplier’s factory when possible. Addressing issues collaboratively, rather than assigning blame, fosters trust and strengthens the partnership. Open, transparent communication with no hidden agendas is key. Demonstrating loyalty by consistently reordering from the same supplier, rather than switching for minor cost savings, and recognizing their efforts reinforces long-term relationships. Advising suppliers about your future order projections, Providing adequate lead-time for orders when possible is helpful. Over time, these practices encourage suppliers to go the extra mile, offering benefits like preferential pricing, innovative ideas, and special terms, ultimately enhancing your business.

The Value of Personal contact

While emailing is often the primary mode of communication with suppliers, it’s beneficial to occasionally pick up the phone and engage in a more personal conversation. This traditional approach helps build rapport and allows for quicker, more direct answers. Strong communication ensures that suppliers can better meet your business needs and fosters a more open and honest dialogue, even when addressing challenging issues. In India, WhatsApp is also commonly used for quick exchanges, but it’s essential to follow up any decisions made via WhatsApp or phone with a confirmation email. This documentation is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that all agreements are properly recorded.

The Importance of Engaging with Company Owners

A lot of Exporters in India are small, family-owned businesses where the owner plays a crucial role as the primary decision-maker. Given the significance of hierarchy in Indian business culture, it’s essential to establish a connection with the company owner or the highest-ranking person available, especially when attending trade fairs. Introducing yourself to the owner or senior management at the booth can pave the way for smoother negotiations and decision-making. As your business relationship progresses, direct communication with the owner will be vital for advancing important decisions and moving projects forward efficiently.

Clarity is Key

When sourcing products from India and communicating with suppliers in India, especially when requesting quotations, it’s crucial to be clear and specific about your requirements. Providing detailed information, including tech packs and purchase orders, not only ensures that your needs are accurately understood but also demonstrates your expertise and professionalism. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings, streamlines the procurement process, and fosters a more efficient and productive relationship with your suppliers.

If you are not sure how to prepare Product Specifications sheet, a Techpack, or a Purchase Order, you can get instant access to our Ready to use, Plug and Play Professional industry standard templates and worksheets. Click here to find more details about India Sourcing Toolkit.

Timely Feedback and Detailed Instructions

Providing timely feedback and all necessary details to your suppliers is crucial for keeping their processes on track and ensuring timely delivery. When you promptly supply the information they need, it allows them to follow their timelines efficiently and reduces delays. It’s important to be a responsible customer, as making suppliers chase you for details or repeatedly resend information wastes valuable time. By being proactive and organized, you help maintain a smooth workflow, contributing to a successful and productive partnership.

Stay on Top of Your Orders

When working with smaller suppliers in India rather than large corporate export houses, delays in responses and submissions are more common. To ensure that your development requests and orders stay on track, it’s essential to closely monitor the progress and regularly follow up with your suppliers. Don’t wait until the deadline to check in—doing so might reveal an issue that has already caused delays. By maintaining close oversight, you can address potential problems early, keeping the order process moving smoothly and ensuring timely delivery, even when delays are beyond the supplier’s control.

Take Control of Shipping

It’s advisable to hire your own freight forwarder to handle shipping logistics, as some suppliers may not be well-versed in managing end-to-end (DDP) shipping procedures. Most buyers prefer to work with FOB terms, which allows you to have greater control over the shipping process. Additionally, gaining an understanding of India’s geographical landscape, including the location of states and their nearest ports, is essential for optimizing your shipping routes and ensuring smooth and efficient deliveries. By managing these logistics yourself, you can avoid potential complications and ensure your products reach their destination on time.

Ensure Product Excellence through Testing, Quality Control, and Inspection

When starting to source products from India with a new supplier in India, it’s crucial to provide clear quality criteria, requirements, and product specifications from the outset. Each country has its own safety regulations, so ensure that your supplier has all the necessary details to meet your standards. Never assume that the supplier automatically knows your requirements. While most suppliers strive to produce high-quality products, it’s essential to conduct inspections before shipment and monitor the entire production process. Inform the supplier of this requirement from the beginning to avoid surprises upon delivery. You can employ an inspection agency or a local independent inspector to physically review the goods, provide detailed reports, and high-quality images for your approval before shipping. Additionally, consider specifying tests from agencies like SGS to verify quality standards, such as color fastness and dimensional stability for textiles. This proactive approach helps ensure that the products meet your expectations and comply with quality parameters.

Building Trust and Respect Through Timely Payments

Timely payments are crucial in maintaining a strong and respectful relationship with your suppliers in India. Always adhere to the agreed payment terms to foster trust and demonstrate reliability. Suppliers are unlikely to remain enthusiastic about working with buyers who delay payments or require repeated follow-ups. By ensuring that payments are made promptly, you build a reputation as a dependable business partner, which encourages suppliers to prioritize your orders and continue collaborating with you in the future.

When sourcing products from India, remember that the quality of your supply chain interactions will significantly impact your overall business outcomes. Invest in these connections, and you’ll find that they become a valuable asset in achieving and sustaining success.

Looking to Source Products from India?

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If you prefer a more hands-on approach, we also provide online video courses to help equip you with all the information and tools to get started with Product Sourcing from India. Click here to Get all the details about our India Sourcing courses.

Kirti Sehrawat

I help E-commerce Entrepreneurs Source Products from India effectively and efficiently, so they can bring their brilliant Product ideas to life and Build an Online Business of their dreams.

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