Introduction
The demand for Indian spices in the UK has seen a consistent rise, powered by a large South Asian diaspora, a love for bold flavors, and a thriving food industry. As one of the largest exporters of spices globally, India enjoys a dominant position in supplying turmeric, chilli, cumin, cardamom, and other aromatic treasures to the UK market.
However, entering the UK spice market isn’t just about sending a shipment—it’s about mastering the documentation, regulatory compliance, packaging norms, and strategic positioning that global trade demands.
In this blog, Strivex Global walks you through everything you need to know about spices export to UK—from legal requirements to proven success strategies.
👉 Explore our full spice export services here
Why Export Indian Spices to the UK?
The United Kingdom is a high-potential destination for Indian spice exporters due to:
- Cultural preference: A significant Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi population fuels continuous demand.
- Thriving food industry: UK restaurants, takeaways, and retailers heavily rely on authentic Indian spices.
- Premium market pricing: High profit margins for exporters who meet quality and compliance standards.
- Trade openness: Despite post-Brexit adjustments, the UK remains receptive to food imports from India.
India already supplies over 75% of global spice varieties, making it an established, credible source for quality and quantity.
Licenses and Registrations You Need in India
Before you can export your spices, make sure you’re legally prepared with:
1. Import Export Code
Mandatory for all exporters; issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
2. CRES Certificate from the Spices Board of India
This Certificate of Registration as Exporter of Spices (CRES) is essential for any business looking to export spices.
3. FSSAI Food License
Since spices fall under consumables, food safety certification is mandatory.
4. Additional Certifications
- ISO 22000, HACCP for food safety
- Organic, Halal, or Fair Trade, based on buyer requirements
💡 Strivex Tip: Always digitize and organize your certifications for fast submissions.
UK Import Rules & Safety Regulations
To successfully ship and clear your spices into the UK, here’s what you need to meet:
1. EORI Number
The UK buyer or receiving agent must have an Economic Operator Registration Identification (EORI) number.
2. Food Standards Compliance
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) of the UK sets strict limits on:
- Pesticide residues
- Microbiological contamination
- Additives and coloring agents
3. Contamination Monitoring
Due to recent concerns (e.g., ethylene oxide found in chilli powder), UK authorities now scrutinize all Indian spice imports more intensely.
4. Spice-Specific Certification
Spices like chilli and chilli products require pre-export sampling and lab testing in India and a Certificate of Compliance issued by the Spices Board.
5. UK Labelling Requirements
All products must include:
- English-language labeling
- Ingredient list
- Allergen declaration
- Batch code, expiry, net weight
- Manufacturer and exporter details
Step-by-Step Spice Export Process to UK
Here’s a simplified roadmap to get your spice consignment from India to a UK warehouse:
- Research and identify UK buyers
- Agree on price, shipping terms (Incoterms)
- Process export order, sample approval
- Grade, clean, sort, and pack spices per UK preferences
- Apply food-safe packaging with compliant labeling
- Prepare documents:
- Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Health & Lab Certificates
- Pesticide residue test report (if applicable)
- Invoice
- Customs clearance in India via port or airport
- Ship goods via sea (LCL/FCL) or air freight
- Clear UK customs and deliver to the buyer
Strivex Global can handle the logistics and compliance management, so you can focus on quality and scale.
Packaging & Labeling Tips for UK Export
- Use moisture-resistant, food-grade pouches or containers
- Print allergen info, expiry, storage instructions
- Avoid plastic unless recyclable; eco-packaging scores well in the UK
- Include barcode and batch traceability to align with retail standards
- Keep all labeling in English for smooth customs clearance
Avoid These Costly Mistakes
❌ Skipping registration with the Spices Board
❌ Neglecting pesticide certification
❌ Poor quality packaging leading to infestation or rejection
❌ Unlabeled allergens (risk of product ban)
❌ Failing to verify importer credentials in the UK
How Strivex Global Can Help You Export Spices to the UK
At Strivex Global, we provide end-to-end support for exporters, whether you’re a beginner or scaling up operations. Our services include:
✅ Documentation & Licensing Support
✅ Buyer Research & Outreach
✅ Compliance Audits & Certifications
✅ Freight Forwarding & Customs Handling
✅ Post-Export Support & Shipment Tracking
👉 Let us help you export Indian spices to the UK — hassle-free.
FAQs About Spices Export to UK
What are the documents required to export spices to UK?
Invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, FSSAI license, pesticide residue certificate, lab reports, and health certificate.
Do I need a license from the Spices Board to export to UK?
Yes, the Certificate of Registration as Exporter of Spices (CRES) is mandatory.
Which Indian spices are in demand in the UK?
Chilli powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, black pepper, and cardamom.
What is the cost of exporting spices from India to UK?
Costs vary based on quantity, shipping mode, documentation, and compliance needs. Expect ₹60–₹150/kg for most processed and packed spices.
Can I export organic spices to the UK?
Yes, but you need organic certification from a recognized body and ensure compliance with UK organic labeling standards.
Conclusion
Exporting spices from India to the UK is a lucrative opportunity—if you follow the rules, prepare the right documents, and work with the right partners. With UK import rules becoming stricter, exporters must take quality, compliance, and traceability seriously.
Strivex Global is here to ensure you don’t just export, but succeed in the UK spice market with full support at every step.
