Between April and December 2024, India’s exports to the United States experienced a notable increase, reaching approximately $60 billion—a 5.57% rise from the same period in the previous fiscal year. This growth underscores India’s significant role as a key supplier of high-demand products to the US market.
From textiles and handicrafts to leather goods and eco-friendly home decor, Indian suppliers offer a diverse range of products at competitive prices. The combination of skilled craftsmanship, cost-effective manufacturing, and a robust supply chain makes India an attractive sourcing destination for Amazon sellers in the US. But how do you tap into this opportunity?
That’s where Amazon Global Selling comes in. The platform has made cross-border e-commerce easier than ever, allowing sellers from India to ship their products directly to customers in the US through Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon). This means sellers don’t have to manage warehouses or handle logistics themselves—Amazon takes care of it all.
However, selling on Amazon USA website from India in 2025 comes with its challenges. Trade regulations, supplier negotiations, shipping complexities, and import duties can quickly become overwhelming for new sellers.
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India’s exports to the US grew by 5.57% in 2024, highlighting strong demand for Indian products like jewelry, spices, textiles, and leather goods.
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Amazon Global Selling makes it easier for Indian sellers to reach US customers, but trade regulations, supplier issues, and competition require careful planning.
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High-ROI products include handmade jewelry, organic spices, eco-friendly plastics, premium teas, artisan textiles, and handcrafted leather goods.
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Exporting from India to the US requires essential documents like an Import Export Code (IEC), commercial invoices, FDA approvals, and certificates of origin.
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Success on Amazon USA requires product research, optimized listings, strong supplier relationships, and choosing the right fulfillment strategy (FBA or FBM).
On top of that, the competition in popular categories is fiercer than ever. That’s why having a well-planned sourcing strategy is essential to making your venture successful.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from finding reliable suppliers in India to navigating import regulations and optimizing your Amazon US site listings for success. If you’re ready to turn India’s thriving export market into a profitable Amazon business, let’s dive in!
What products from India will give the most ROI when sold in the USA?
First things first—choose the products you want to sell. But don’t just go with what sounds exotic or unique. Make sure these products align with what Americans actually buy and, more importantly, what they are willing to pay a premium for.
Amazon itself has pointed out that some of the top products exported from India to the USA include spices, jewelry, tea, plastic and rubber items, leather, and home linens and textiles. These are also the best online selling products in India.
That’s a great starting point, but let’s closely examine why these categories perform well and what kind of return on investment (ROI) you can expect.
Jewelry, especially handmade or semi-precious gemstone jewelry, is a massive seller. The global jewelry market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2024 to 2030, and a large portion of that demand comes from the US.
Americans are obsessed with statement pieces, unique handmade designs, and minimalist gold-plated or sterling silver jewelry. Indian artisans excel in this space, with their intricate Kundan, Meenakari, and Polki jewelry designs.
If you’re considering this niche, stick to lightweight, high-margin items—think rings, earrings, and pendants instead of bulky, high-shipping-cost bangles or necklaces.
Spices are another top performer. India is the world’s largest producer of spices, and the US spice market is booming. According to the American Spice Trade Association, the demand for turmeric, cumin, cardamom, and saffron has skyrocketed due to growing interest in home cooking and health benefits.
The US turmeric market alone is projected to hit $1.99 billion this year, thanks to its popularity in wellness communities. But here’s the catch—quality and certification matter. Organic, non-GMO, and fair-trade labels can push your product into the premium category, which means better profit margins.
Plastic and rubber items from India also sell well, but this category requires a strategic approach. The US market for eco-friendly and sustainable products is on the rise, so focusing on biodegradable plastics, silicone kitchenware, or rubber yoga mats can give you the upper hand.
I’ve seen sellers struggle with generic plastic products that get lost in competition, but those who differentiate with sustainable or innovative designs tend to thrive.
Tea from India, particularly Assam, Darjeeling, and Masala Chai, has a cult following in the US market. The global tea market is expected to reach $362 billion by 2029, and premium loose-leaf teas are driving much of that growth.
Amazon US website listings for authentic Darjeeling tea or chai blends with Ayurvedic ingredients consistently rank in the bestsellers list. From my experience, branding is everything here. A beautiful package, an origin story, and an emphasis on purity (organic, pesticide-free) can make all the difference.
Home linens and textiles, especially handwoven or block-printed bedsheets, cushion covers, and curtains, are also highly sought after. The US home decor market is expected to generate a revenue of around $37 billion this year, and a growing segment of consumers is leaning toward ethically sourced, artisan-made products.
Indian textiles stand out for their craftsmanship, but don’t just sell generic patterns—focus on unique, trending aesthetics like bohemian, farmhouse, or minimalist styles. Trust me, a well-curated selection of these textiles can command high markups if marketed correctly.
Leather products, including bags, wallets, and belts, are another lucrative option. India is one of the world’s largest leather producers, and US buyers love high-quality, handcrafted leather goods.
The American leather goods market is projected to grow to $24 billion by 2029, and Indian brands are gaining traction, especially those offering vegetable-tanned, full-grain leather products.
The key to success here? Positioning. Selling handcrafted leather in your Amazon store USA as a sustainable alternative to fast fashion can attract premium buyers.
Documents Required to Export from India to the USA
Just because Amazon will handle the heavy lifting—storing, packing, and shipping your products—doesn’t mean you get to sit back and skip the paperwork. If you’re sourcing from India to sell on your Amazon shop USA, you’re still responsible for securing all the necessary documents to make your exports legal and hassle-free.
I swear, I’ve seen sellers assume Amazon takes care of everything, only to have their shipments delayed or even seized because they overlooked a crucial form.
Now, the good news: if you’re selling through Amazon Global Selling, the platform makes it easier by giving you access to the Exports Compliance Dashboard. This tool not only lists the documents you need but also connects you with third-party service providers who can help you obtain them.
That’s a lifesaver, especially if you’re new to international trade and don’t want to navigate Indian export laws alone.
The Essential Documents
The first thing you’ll need before engaging in import and export in India is an Import Export Code (IEC) issued by India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). This is non-negotiable—no IEC, no exports.
It’s a one-time registration, but here’s something many sellers don’t realize: you can get an IEC within a day if you apply online and submit the right documents (PAN card, bank details, and business address proof).
Next, you’ll need a Purchase Order and a Commercial Invoice cum Packing List. These documents establish the agreement between you and your Indian supplier and provide details about the shipment—what’s inside, how much it costs, and how it’s packed.
The invoice needs to be GST-compliant because India has strict taxation laws. A small mistake, like misclassifying your goods under the wrong Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) code, could mean paying more in customs duties than necessary.
A Pro Forma Invoice is sometimes required before the shipment is finalized. This document is essentially a quote from the supplier outlining what they’re selling and at what price. Many suppliers will provide this automatically, but if they don’t, ask for one—it makes customs processing much smoother.
Then there’s the Bill of Exchange, a financial document that acts as a contract between you and the supplier for payment terms. While it’s not always required for small-scale exports, if you’re placing large bulk orders, this becomes an important document to settle payments through banks.
A Certificate of Origin is another must-have, proving that your goods were manufactured in India. This certificate is issued by authorized organizations like the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO) or the Indian Chamber of Commerce. It can impact your import duties in the USA because some Indian products qualify for preferential tariffs under trade agreements.
An Insurance Certificate is highly recommended, especially if you’re shipping fragile or high-value items. Many sellers skip this part to save costs, but one lost or damaged shipment can cost you way more than a basic marine insurance policy. I’ve heard horror stories from sellers who had entire shipments ruined due to moisture exposure while in transit. A good insurance policy not only protects your products but also gives you peace of mind.
Additional Documents Based on Product Type
Now, depending on what you’re planning to sell on the American Amazon website, you may need some extra paperwork. If your product is regulated in any way, expect to go through additional checks.
For example, if you’re dealing with food products, medical devices, or anything that could affect public health, you must obtain a US FDA Certification. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ramped up its scrutiny on imports in recent years, rejecting shipments that don’t comply with safety standards.
If you’re exporting herbal supplements, Indian spices, or even skincare products with natural ingredients, get your product tested and certified to avoid problems at US customs.
Another important document is the Certificate of Inspection, issued by agencies like the Export Inspection Council (EIC) of India. This ensures that your products meet both Indian and international quality standards. If you’re dealing with textiles, handicrafts, or industrial goods, this document can be required.
For agricultural products, plant-based items, or wooden handicrafts, a Phytosanitary Certificate is necessary. US customs is very strict about preventing invasive pests and diseases from entering the country.
So, if your product has any organic material, expect an inspection. I’ve seen sellers importing wooden furniture and getting stuck at customs because they didn’t have this document—don’t let that happen to you.
A Health or Sanitation Certificate is often required for processed food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. India is a massive exporter of spices, tea, and ayurvedic products, but the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and FDA require proper documentation proving these items are free from contaminants. If you’re selling anything edible, double-check these regulations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting Indian Products to Amazon USA
If you’ve already figured out what to sell, congratulations! That’s a big first step. Now, let’s talk about how to actually get those products from India into the hands of US customers through Amazon. Here’s what you need to do to make this process smooth, legal, and profitable.
Step 1: Create an Amazon Seller Account
Selling on Amazon isn’t as simple as just signing up with your regular shopping account. You need to create an official seller account through sell.amazon.com. Click “Learn More,” and follow the steps to sign up. Be prepared to submit Know Your Client (KYC) documents, a valid credit card, and bank details for payments.
If you’re registering as a business entity in India, you’ll also need a Goods and Services Tax (GST) number and a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card. Since you’re exporting to the US, you’ll have to comply with additional requirements, including an Importer-Exporter Code (IEC), which you can get from India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). These documents prove your legitimacy as an exporter and ensure you can receive international payments without hassle.
As previously mentioned, it’s also essential to check whether your product requires an FDA approval (for food, cosmetics, and certain health-related items) or a CPC certificate for children’s products. Sorting this out in advance saves a ton of time.
Step 2: List Your Products
Once your account is set up, it’s time to list your products. This step is more than just uploading pictures and writing a description—you need to optimize your listings for Amazon search.
Each product requires a Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) for inventory tracking. Your title should be clear, keyword-rich, and follow Amazon’s best practices (e.g., brand name + key feature + product type). The description must highlight why your product is worth buying.
And don’t forget about images! Your photos should be crisp, well-lit, and show the product from different angles. If possible, invest in lifestyle images to help customers visualize how they’ll use the product.
Adding relevant keywords is crucial because most Amazon shoppers never scroll past the first page of search results. If your listing isn’t properly optimized, your product will be buried under thousands of similar items. Tools like Helium 10 and Jungle Scout can help you find the right keywords to rank higher.
Step 3: Wait for Orders and Monitor Sales
At this point, your product is live on Amazon. Now, you wait for sales—but don’t just sit back and hope for the best. This is where monitoring your performance is key.
Amazon offers two fulfillment options: Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM) and Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA). If you choose FBM, you handle storage, packing, and shipping yourself or through a third-party logistics (3PL) provider. Many sellers start with FBM to cut costs but eventually switch to FBA because Amazon takes care of the entire shipping process for you.
The trade-off? FBA fees. However, statistics show that 73% of Amazon sellers use FBA for several reasons, including increasing their chances of winning the Buy Box, leading to more sales. If you’re serious about scaling your business, FBA is worth considering.
A good practice at this stage is to check your conversion rate and customer feedback regularly. If your listing gets a lot of traffic but few sales, you may need to tweak your pricing, images, or description. If you get negative reviews, address them quickly—customer trust is everything on Amazon.
Selling products overseas has never been more accessible, thanks to Amazon. The US imports over $80 billion worth of goods from India each year, and ecommerce is a massive part of that. There’s a real opportunity here for sellers who know how to navigate the process correctly.
If you ever feel stuck, revisit this guide. I’ve been through the ups and downs of selling internationally, and I know that the key is staying adaptable. The Indian export market is growing fast, and with the right approach, you can grab your share of it.
