Question

What’s the best way for a small business to start exporting without hiring an agent?

Answer 1

Great question, exporting as a small business without hiring an agent is definitely doable today, especially with digital tools on your side.

Here’s a simple roadmap to get started:

1. Pick Your Core Products

Start with 1–3 products that you can manufacture or supply consistently with clear specs and packaging. Make sure they meet basic export requirements and quality standards.

2. Get Documentation in Place

Even without an agent, you’ll need:

• IEC (Import Export Code)

• Product catalogue

• Proforma invoices

• Basic understanding of customs and HS codes
  There are government portals (like DGFT in India) that guide you step-by-step.

3. Use Online B2B Portals

Rather than going through agents, you can now directly connect with overseas buyers through B2B e-commerce platforms. These portals help you:

• Showcase your products

• Receive RFQs (Request for Quotations)

• Communicate with verified buyers
  For example, platforms like Pepagora cater specifically to SMEs looking to expand globally. They're structured to make international visibility easier even without having a large team or export agency.

4. Start with Nearby Markets

Consider exporting to nearby regions like GCC countries or Southeast Asia, where demand for Indian goods (textiles, electronics, homeware, etc.) is strong and shipping/logistics are relatively manageable.

5. Respond Quickly and Build Trust

Buyers will evaluate your professionalism based on how fast and clearly you respond. Use tools like WhatsApp Web, Google Translate (for basic communication), and PDF catalogue.

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Final Tip:
Focus on digital presence. You don’t need a fancy website, but a clean B2B profile, solid product listings, and active follow-ups go a long way in establishing trust, without the need for a middleman.

Let your products speak for themselves, and the right buyers will come to you.

Answer 2

Honestly, many small businesses think exporting is impossible without a middleman but that’s changing fast.

In 2025, you don’t have to rely on agents or intermediaries who eat into your margins. If your product is solid and you’re willing to put effort into visibility and buyer trust, here’s a simpler path I often suggest to small manufacturers and sellers:

Steps to Start Exporting Without an Agent:

1. Create a Clear Product Catalog
   Start with clean photos, specs, MOQ, and packaging details. This makes international buyers trust what they see.

2. Register on Trusted Indian B2B Platforms
   There are platforms now that support Indian SMEs directly they help you list your products, show certifications, and connect with buyers from GCC, LATAM, Africa, etc. Some even allow verified expoters to chat directly with buyers.

3. Focus on Niche Categories
   Instead of trying to sell “everything to everyone,” define your product category clearly for ex: tractor gear parts, precision components, irrigation tools, etc. This improves search visibility.

4. Answer Inquiries Promptly
   Buyers often test with small orders. The way you respond with clarity, pricing, and assurance builds trust for repeat exports.

5. Use WhatsApp & Email Smartly
   Most exporters I work with skip fancy CRMs. They just use WhatsApp and email effectively share PDFs, videos, and shipping info clearly.

6. Always Quote FOB and Export Packaging Options
   If you’re targeting direct exports, be ready to speak buyer language. Include HS codes, lead times, and export-worthy packaging.

You don’t need a big budget, just consistency and clarity.

And if you need help figuring out the right platforms that support Indian SMEs without charging huge fees or putting agents in between, feel free to ask. There are newer B2B models emerging that actually work with the manufacturer, not around them.

Hope this helps. I’ve seen small businesses grow export legs with just this clarity and direction.