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- General Questions
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What is I Kar Exports and what kind of business do you specialize in?
I Kar Exports is a merchant export company based in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. We specialize in sourcing, processing, and exporting Indian spices (red chilli, chilli flakes, turmeric, coriander, cumin, etc.), pulses, millets, oilseeds, and grains. With storage godowns in Jaipur and Guntur (Andhra Pradesh), we ensure seamless supply chain operations. Our goal is to connect India’s farmers and spice markets with global buyers who demand quality and authenticity.
Where are your warehouses and how does their location benefit international buyers?
We have godowns strategically located in Jaipur (Rajasthan) and Guntur (Andhra Pradesh). Jaipur gives us access to major grain, millet, and spice-producing regions of North India, while Guntur is globally recognized as the hub for dry red chillies. This dual location allows us to source products directly from farmers and mandis, ensuring consistent quality, timely delivery, and cost efficiency. For example, chillies sourced from Guntur are shipped directly from nearby ports like Chennai and Visakhapatnam, reducing transit time.
What varieties of red chilli and spices do you export?
We supply almost all commercial varieties of Indian dry red chilli such as Teja (highly pungent, 70,000–100,000 SHU), Byadgi (high color, low heat, 160–200 ASTA), 341, Sanam, and Mundu. Along with chillies, we also deal in turmeric finger and powder, coriander seeds and powder, cumin seeds, and chilli flakes. Each variety has its unique market demand – for example, Byadgi is highly preferred in the food coloring industry in Malaysia and Europe, while Teja is shipped to Africa and the Middle East for its spiciness.
Do you also deal in agricultural products beyond spices?
Yes. In addition to spices, we export pulses (chickpeas, pigeon peas, lentils), millets (sorghum, pearl millet, finger millet), oilseeds (sesame, groundnut, safflower), and grains (rice, maize, wheat). These products are sourced from different regions of India and exported in bulk shipments. For instance, we recently shipped safflower seeds to a European buyer who used them for bird feed due to their whitish color and bold size.
What types of packaging do you provide for international shipments?
We offer packaging in 20 kg, 25 kg, and 50 kg PP bags, jute bags, vacuum-sealed packs, and HDPE laminated bags with liners. Packaging is customized according to buyer preferences and destination requirements. For high-value cargo like tamarind or chilli powder, we recommend vacuum-sealed packaging to preserve freshness. For bulk shipments to Africa, buyers often prefer 50 kg jute or PP bags, whereas Middle East buyers sometimes ask for smaller 25 kg packs for easy retail distribution.
What measures do you take to maintain product quality during long sea shipments?
We follow strict protocols to preserve freshness during transit. Products are fumigated, moisture-controlled, and packed in airtight bags. For sensitive products like tamarind, we use reefer containers (1°C–5°C) to prevent fungal growth and spoilage. For chillies and turmeric, we ensure fumigation certificates are provided to avoid pest issues. For example, a recent 28 MT tamarind consignment to Senegal was shipped in a reefer container to maintain consistent temperature throughout the voyage.
What certifications and registrations does I Kar Exports hold?
We are registered with DGFT (IEC Code: CGGPK2357A), APEDA, Spices Board of India, and FSSAI. Our processes comply with international food safety norms including ASTA (American Spice Trade Association) standards for color and pungency. We also provide phytosanitary certificates, fumigation certificates, and marine insurance policies with each consignment to ensure compliance with buyer country requirements.
Which countries are your main export markets and what products are popular in each?
We export regularly to Senegal, Gambia, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Georgia, USA, UK, China, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. Each market has unique preferences: West African buyers prefer Teja chillies for their pungency, Malaysia prefers Byadgi chillies for their rich red color, while European buyers demand turmeric and coriander with strict aflatoxin controls. Recently, we shipped two containers of dry red chilli (14 MT each) to Senegal and one container of turmeric to Georgia.
Can you provide product samples before order confirmation?
Yes, we provide small samples (500 g to 2 kg) of spices or grains before finalizing orders. Samples are couriered via air freight or express courier services. This allows buyers to test quality, ASTA value, and moisture content before confirming container-level shipments. For example, a Georgian buyer recently requested 1 kg turmeric powder and 2 kg coriander seeds as samples before placing a 20 MT bulk order.
Do you provide correct HS Codes and export documentation with shipments?
Yes. Every consignment is shipped with proper HS Codes, Proforma Invoices, Sales Contracts, Packing Lists, Bills of Lading, Certificates of Origin, Fumigation Certificates, and Phytosanitary Certificates. For example, dry red chilli is shipped under HS Code 09042120, while turmeric finger is under 09103020. This ensures smooth customs clearance at the buyer’s destination port and avoids unnecessary delays or penalties.
How does I Kar Exports ensure spice quality during long sea shipments?
We adopt multiple measures to preserve quality during transit. All consignments are fumigated, packed in moisture-proof bags, and sealed to avoid contamination. Sensitive goods like tamarind are shipped in reefer containers (1°C–5°C) to prevent fungal growth. For example, during a 28 MT tamarind shipment to Senegal, we maintained cold storage from the godown till unloading at Dakar port, ensuring freshness.
Do you have your own processing facilities or rely on third-party processors?
We collaborate with reputed processors in Guntur and Jaipur for machine-cleaned, stem-cut, stemless, and powdered spices. These facilities are equipped with sorting, grading, destemming, and grinding machines. For example, a buyer from Malaysia demanded Byadgi chilli flakes with low seeds, which was processed in Guntur with precision equipment before export.
How do you maintain competitive pricing for international buyers?
By sourcing directly from mandis and farmer groups in Guntur, Rajasthan, and Karnataka, we eliminate unnecessary middlemen. Having our own storage godowns allows us to bulk purchase during harvest season when prices are low. For instance, in 2025 we stocked turmeric at peak season rates in Nizamabad, which later helped us supply Georgian buyers at competitive prices even when market rates had risen.
Can international buyers sign long-term supply contracts with you?
Yes, we encourage annual or seasonal supply agreements with buyers. These contracts provide stability in price and supply. For example, a Senegalese buyer signed a 12-month contract for Teja chillies at a fixed USD price per MT, protecting both sides from sudden market fluctuations. Such agreements ensure steady availability and predictable costs.
Do you offer private labeling and branded packaging for international clients?
Yes, we provide customized packaging with buyer’s brand name, logo, and country-specific labeling requirements. For example, a UK buyer requested 25 kg vacuum-packed turmeric powder bags under their own brand, which we successfully supplied. This helps buyers expand retail presence in their local markets with our bulk supply backing their brand identity.
How do you handle customs clearance and port formalities in India?
We work with licensed CHA (Customs House Agents) who manage CFS handling, THC charges, export documentation, and customs clearance. This ensures smooth loading and dispatch from major ports like Nhava Sheva, Chennai, Mundra, and Visakhapatnam. For example, during a chilli shipment to Ghana, our CHA coordinated all steps, ensuring on-time container loading and departure without detention charges.
Can you ship mixed containers with multiple products in one shipment?
Yes, we arrange consolidated containers where multiple products are loaded together. This is especially useful for buyers importing smaller volumes of different items. For instance, a Georgian buyer ordered turmeric, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds in a single 20ft container. This flexibility helps reduce freight cost per product while maintaining variety in one shipment.
Do you provide ASTA color value, pungency, and lab test reports for spices?
Yes, on request, we provide ASTA color test reports, SHU (Scoville Heat Units) values, and moisture analysis from NABL-accredited labs. For example, a European buyer required proof of Byadgi chilli’s ASTA value (180+) before placing an order. We provided certified lab reports along with product samples, which built buyer confidence and secured the deal.
Do you assist buyers with international trade documentation and compliance?
Absolutely. We prepare all export documents including Proforma Invoice, Sales Contract, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Insurance, Certificate of Origin, Phytosanitary and Fumigation Certificates. This saves buyers time and avoids compliance issues. For example, in a recent consignment to the USA, we arranged USDA-compliant phytosanitary certification to meet import regulations.
Can foreign buyers visit your godowns or farms before finalizing orders?
Yes, we welcome buyer visits to our Jaipur and Guntur facilities. This allows them to physically inspect products, packaging, and storage practices. For example, in July 2025, a Senegalese importer visited our Guntur godown to inspect Teja chilli and tamarind stocks before confirming a 40ft container booking. Such visits increase trust and transparency in business relationships.
What is the ASTA color value of Byadgi chilli and why is it important?
Byadgi chilli is famous for its deep red color with ASTA values ranging between 160–200+. ASTA (American Spice Trade Association) value measures natural color strength in spices, which is crucial for food processing industries. For example, ketchup, sauces, and cosmetic industries prefer Byadgi because it imparts rich red color without much heat. This makes it especially popular in Malaysia and Europe where mild taste but vibrant color is in demand.
What is the average Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) of Teja chilli?
Teja chilli is among the hottest commercial chillies from India, with a Scoville rating of 70,000–100,000 SHU. SHU measures pungency or spiciness in chillies. For example, a West African buyer looking for strong heat in local sauces prefers Teja chilli over Byadgi. This variety is widely exported to Senegal, Gambia, and Ghana where spiciness is highly valued in traditional cuisine.
How does I Kar Exports control aflatoxin levels in spices?
Aflatoxin contamination is a major concern for exports, especially to EU markets. We ensure proper sun drying, controlled storage, fumigation, and moisture checks at every stage. In addition, lab tests from accredited facilities confirm compliance with international aflatoxin limits. For example, during a turmeric shipment to Georgia, we provided aflatoxin test certificates proving levels below EU standards, ensuring smooth customs clearance.
What are the ideal moisture levels for tamarind exports and how are they maintained?
Tamarind for exports must have 8–10% moisture content to avoid fungal growth and spoilage. To achieve this, tamarind is properly dried, packed in moisture-proof bags, and shipped in reefer containers at 1°C–5°C. For example, in a recent shipment to Dakar, Senegal, we used 28 MT reefer containers to maintain consistent cold temperature, ensuring tamarind quality remained intact during the 22-day sea transit.
What is the difference between stem-cut and stemless chillies in exports?
Stem-cut chillies are machine-trimmed, leaving a small part of the stem attached, while stemless chillies are manually destemmed, leaving only the fruit. Stemless chillies are considered premium grade as they have higher net yield per kilogram and save labor costs for buyers. For instance, a buyer from the UK preferred stemless Teja chilli to avoid additional processing at their spice grinding unit.
Do you export turmeric powder with high curcumin content, and why is it valuable?
Yes, we supply cold-processed turmeric powder with curcumin levels ranging between 2.5–4.5%. Curcumin is the active compound responsible for turmeric’s medicinal and coloring properties. High-curcumin turmeric is in strong demand in Europe and USA for use in nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, and natural medicine. For example, a US buyer ordered 20 MT of turmeric powder specifically with lab-certified 4% curcumin content.
How do you handle different HS Codes for the same product in multiple forms?
Every spice has different HS Codes depending on its form. For example: Turmeric Finger – 09103020, Turmeric Powder – 09103030, Whole Red Chilli – 09042120, Ground Chilli – 09042130. Using the correct HS Code avoids customs issues and ensures smooth clearance. For instance, in a shipment to Malaysia, turmeric finger and powder were shipped together under different HS Codes with a single invoice, ensuring proper classification.
What type of packaging is most suitable for spices during long voyages?
For long-distance sea shipments, we recommend HDPE laminated PP bags with inner liners for spices like chilli, turmeric, and coriander. For high-value products such as tamarind or powdered spices, we use vacuum-sealed packs or reefer containers. For example, a 20 MT chilli shipment to Georgia was packed in double-layered PP bags, which protected it from moisture despite high humidity during the voyage.
How do you protect buyers from sudden price fluctuations in spice markets?
Prices of spices like chilli and turmeric fluctuate due to seasonal harvests, demand-supply gaps, and export restrictions. To protect buyers, we offer forward contracts and fixed-rate agreements in USD. For example, a buyer in Burkina Faso signed a 6-month contract for Teja chilli, which saved him from a sudden price hike when Indian mandi rates increased by 15%.
How do you calculate net weight vs gross weight in spice containers?
Net weight refers to the actual weight of the product inside bags, while gross weight includes packaging materials, pallets, and liners. A standard 40ft reefer container usually carries 28 MT net weight of tamarind or 14 MT of chillies. For example, in a chilli shipment, if each bag weighs 50 kg net but with packaging weighs 51 kg, the gross container weight becomes 14.28 MT instead of 14 MT net.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for exports at I Kar Exports?
Our MOQ depends on the product, but generally we prefer a minimum of one full 20ft container load. For example, this means around 14 MT for chillies, 28 MT for tamarind, or 18–20 MT for mixed agricultural products. However, for new buyers or trial shipments, we sometimes accept smaller orders (5–10 MT) if logistics are feasible. This ensures buyers can test the market before committing to larger volumes.
Do you allow partial shipments or split deliveries for big contracts?
Yes, we can arrange partial shipments depending on buyer requirements and freight feasibility. For example, if a buyer orders 56 MT of turmeric, we can ship it as two 28 MT consignments in separate containers, scheduled one month apart. This helps buyers manage warehouse space and working capital better, especially when importing perishable goods like tamarind.
What is your stance on product substitution or quality compromise?
We strictly do not substitute lower-grade goods in place of contracted quality. Every order is fulfilled as per agreed sample, specification, and sales contract. For example, if a buyer books Byadgi chilli with 180+ ASTA value, we will never replace it with lower-value Sanam or other varieties, even if market prices change. This policy ensures long-term trust and reliability.
Do you provide insurance coverage for all your shipments?
Yes, under CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) contracts, we provide marine insurance covering risks like loss, theft, fire, or water damage. Insurance certificates are issued in the buyer’s name. For FOB contracts, buyers arrange their own insurance. For example, in a tamarind consignment to Georgia, the marine insurance covered minor cargo damage due to rough weather, protecting the buyer’s financial interests.
What is your approach to sustainability and responsible sourcing?
We promote sustainable sourcing by working directly with farmers who follow controlled pesticide practices. We also encourage sun-drying methods, natural storage, and minimal chemical use. For example, in Rajasthan, we support millet farmers who grow without excessive fertilizers, ensuring healthy produce for export. This not only protects buyer interests but also benefits local farming communities.
Do you follow traceability practices for your export consignments?
Yes, we maintain batch-wise records so that every consignment can be traced back to its source – farmer group, mandi lot, or processing unit. This is especially important for markets like the EU and USA, where importers demand proof of origin. For example, in a coriander shipment to Germany, we provided detailed procurement records, helping the buyer clear customs without additional queries.
Can international buyers or third-party auditors inspect your facilities?
Absolutely. We welcome buyer visits and third-party audits with prior notice. This allows transparency in procurement, storage, and packaging. For example, in July 2025, a Senegalese buyer visited our Guntur godown to check Teja chilli stocks before signing a contract. Similarly, we have hosted third-party inspection agencies like SGS to certify shipment quality.
Do you offer exclusive distribution rights in specific countries?
Yes, in selected markets we provide exclusive distribution rights to committed buyers who agree to long-term contracts. For example, a buyer in Burkina Faso signed a 2-year agreement to exclusively distribute our Teja chilli in that region. Such partnerships create mutual trust and allow us to support the distributor with stable prices and timely supply.
How does I Kar Exports ensure compliance with food safety regulations?
We strictly follow FSSAI, HACCP, and Codex standards for food safety. Every batch undergoes cleaning, grading, and fumigation before export. We also provide phytosanitary and lab test certificates as required by importing countries. For example, a turmeric shipment to the USA required compliance with FDA standards; we ensured curcumin levels and aflatoxin limits were within permissible ranges, clearing the shipment smoothly.
What payment methods does I Kar Exports accept for international buyers?
We accept Telegraphic Transfer (TT/Wire Transfer), Letters of Credit (LC), Documents Against Payment (DP), and Documents Against Acceptance (DA). For smaller trial orders, we also accept partial advance payments. For example, a buyer in Georgia placed a turmeric order with 30% advance TT and balance against Bill of Lading. This flexibility allows us to cater to both small traders and established importers.
Do you require advance payment for all orders?
For first-time buyers, we generally request 20–30% advance to confirm procurement and balance against shipping documents. For regular buyers with good payment history, we allow more flexible terms. For example, a Senegalese client initially paid 25% advance for Teja chilli, but after three successful shipments, we extended DA (credit) terms for future orders.
Can payments be made in multiple currencies?
While USD is our primary trading currency, we also accept EUR, GBP, CFA (West African Franc), and INR for specific buyers. Currency flexibility is especially helpful in Africa, where importers prefer to settle in CFA, while European buyers prefer EUR. For example, a Burkina Faso buyer paid in CFA equivalent for chillies, which we converted through our authorized bank.
Do you issue Proforma Invoices and Sales Contracts before payment?
Yes, every transaction begins with a Proforma Invoice (PI) outlining quantity, price, HS Code, and Incoterms. Once the buyer confirms, we draft a Sales Contract. Payments are always linked to these documents to avoid disputes. For example, a buyer in Malaysia received PI for Byadgi chilli, confirmed the terms, and then proceeded with LC opening.
Do you offer credit terms for trusted long-term buyers?
Yes, for buyers with a strong track record, we offer DA terms (30–60 days credit). This helps importers sell products locally before settling payments. For instance, a Ghanaian buyer received 60-day credit on a chilli container, which allowed him to sell part of the stock in Accra market and pay us on time without cash flow issues.
Do CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) contracts affect payment terms?
Under CIF, we bear the freight and insurance costs, so buyers typically pay slightly higher than FOB rates. Payments are usually structured as advance + balance against BL or via LC. For example, in a CIF contract with a Georgian client, ocean freight and insurance were added to turmeric’s FOB value, and payment was made through an LC at sight.
How do you handle delayed payments or defaults?
In case of delayed payments, we either apply interest charges as per contract or adjust the dues in the next shipment. For defaults, we rely on LC terms or arbitration clauses in our contracts. For instance, when an African buyer delayed payment by 15 days, we charged a nominal interest but continued future business, maintaining trust.
What is your standard delivery timeline after order confirmation?
Our usual delivery time is 15–25 days after receipt of advance payment or LC confirmation, depending on product and port availability. For example, chillies sourced from Guntur can be loaded and shipped within 18 days through Chennai port, whereas turmeric from Nizamabad might take 22–25 days due to internal transport and lab certification requirements.
Who is responsible for customs clearance and import duties in the buyer’s country?
As per Incoterms, customs clearance and duties at the destination port are the responsibility of the buyer, unless otherwise agreed in writing. For example, under a CIF contract to Senegal, we shipped tamarind up to Dakar port, but local clearance and duty payment were handled by the importer’s clearing agent.
What happens if there are delays in shipment due to port congestion or natural events?
Delays caused by force majeure events such as strikes, port congestion, or natural disasters are beyond our control. In such cases, we immediately inform the buyer, provide updated ETAs, and reschedule shipments. For instance, during the July 2025 monsoon congestion at Nhava Sheva, a chilli container was delayed by 4 days, and we adjusted schedules without extra charges.
Can buyers cancel an order after the contract is signed?
Cancellation is possible only before procurement and stuffing begins. Once goods are purchased, processed, and packed, cancellation attracts penalties. For example, if a buyer cancels a turmeric order after bagging is completed, the buyer must bear costs for packaging and local handling, even if the cargo is not shipped.
Do you provide a quality guarantee for your exported products?
Yes, all shipments are supplied as per sample and contract specifications. Quality checks are done before stuffing, and buyers can appoint third-party inspection agencies (like SGS, Geo Chem, Bureau Veritas) if required. For example, a buyer in Malaysia hired SGS to check chilli ASTA value before loading, and the shipment matched the guaranteed standards.
Who bears the risk of goods during transit – buyer or seller?
Risk responsibility depends on the agreed Incoterms. Under FOB, the risk transfers to the buyer once goods are loaded on the vessel. Under CIF, we cover risk until the cargo reaches the buyer’s port, including marine insurance. For example, in a CIF turmeric shipment to Georgia, we arranged marine insurance so the buyer was protected against mid-sea damage.
How are trade disputes or disagreements resolved?
All disputes are resolved under the Indian Arbitration and Conciliation Act, with jurisdiction at Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, unless mutually agreed otherwise. Arbitration ensures faster settlement compared to lengthy court processes. For instance, in a past pricing dispute, both parties settled via arbitration with a neutral mediator, avoiding long legal delays.
Do your contracts include a force majeure clause?
Yes, all our contracts include a force majeure clause covering events like natural calamities, political unrest, strikes, or shipping restrictions. This protects both buyer and seller from penalties in unforeseen situations. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a buyer’s shipment was delayed by 20 days, but the force majeure clause ensured no penalties were applied.
Are your prices fixed once the contract is signed, or can they change?
Once the Proforma Invoice and Sales Contract are signed, prices remain fixed, protecting both parties. The only exceptions are sudden freight hikes or government-imposed export restrictions. For example, in 2025, ocean freight to Africa increased by USD 1,200 per container; such costs were mutually renegotiated with the buyer while product prices remained fixed.
What legal framework governs your contracts with buyers?
All contracts are governed by the Indian Contract Act, 1872, and aligned with Incoterms 2020 for international trade. This ensures globally accepted practices are followed in pricing, risk, and delivery terms. For example, when shipping chilli under CIF terms, Incoterms 2020 clearly defined that freight and insurance costs were our responsibility until the cargo reached Dakar port.
