Building BusinessServices

Section 14

Handicrafts (wood, metal and art ware)

India’s exports: 1,792.66 US$ million · 2025-26 (provisional)

HS codes
4
top markets
5

How to start

  1. Get an Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT online; it is free and linked to your PAN.
  2. Register with EPCH and get your RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) through the DGFT e-RCMC system.
  3. Exhibit at the IHGF Delhi Fair (EPCH) to meet importers; most first orders come from fairs.
  4. Keep a price list in US$ with MOQ, carton size and lead time ready.

Top buyer countries

  1. United States7.16 US$ million · 2025-26
  2. Saudi Arabia0.45 US$ million · 2025-26
  3. United Kingdom0.43 US$ million · 2025-26
  4. Mexico0.35 US$ million · 2025-26
  5. Canada0.32 US$ million · 2025-26

Certificates and registrations

  • EPCH RCMC
  • Artisan card or Handicrafts Mark (Craftmark) to prove handmade origin
  • Fumigation certificate and ISPM-15 stamped packing for wooden items

Watch out for

  • Lead and cadmium limits on coated metal and ceramic items in the US and EU.
  • Wood items need legal timber proof; the EU Timber and Deforestation rules apply.

Businesses in the encyclopedia

Metal Handicraft Unit →Wood Crafting Unit (Wooden Frames) →Wooden Memento and Souvenir Making →Pooja Brass Wares (Idols, Lamps, Bells) →

Sources (3)
  1. TradeStat, Department of Commerce — Export: Principal Commodity-wise, April–March 2026 (provisional), US$ million — row "S1, HANDCRFS(EXCL.HANDMADE CRPTS)"
  2. TradeStat (Export Import Data Bank), Department of Commerce — Commodity-wise all countries export, HS 4420, 2025-26, US$ million · 2025-26
  3. HBP Appendix 2T — List of EPCs / Commodity Boards (DGFT), via research/export-import.json · 2023