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Export carpet from India with this 2026 guide. Learn CEPC registration, HS codes, top buyer countries, documents, and how to sell globally on Amazon.
June 30, 2026 | 19 min read
India is the largest exporter of handmade carpets globally, with a 40% share of worldwide handmade carpet exports. In FY 2024-25, the value of Indian carpet exports reached US$ 1.54 billion.1
From hand-knotted carpets to artisanal silk designs, Indian carpets are popular worldwide. Bhadohi and Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, Kashmir, and Rajasthan are the four primary clusters driving this output. This blog explains how to export carpets from India through e-commerce. It also helps Indian carpet exporters understand how to establish a handicrafts export business in global markets.
From hand-knotted carpets to artisanal silk designs, Indian carpets are popular worldwide. Bhadohi and Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, Kashmir, and Rajasthan are the four primary clusters driving this output. This blog explains how to export carpets from India through e-commerce. It also helps Indian carpet exporters understand how to establish a handicrafts export business in global markets.
Overview and trends of India's carpet exports
India exports carpets to more than 100 countries worldwide. The US is the largest single buyer, with several EU nations like Germany and the Netherlands also importing high volumes year over year.2
The demand for Indian handmade carpets in global markets is driven by various factors:
• Sustainability: Natural fiber rugs are increasingly favored for their eco-friendly materials, durable construction, and sustainable production methods.
• Convenience: Buyers also prioritize floor coverings that are machine washable and easy to maintain, a factor boosting demand across both handmade and machine-made segments.
The India-EU Free Trade Agreement, concluded in January 2026, is set to strengthen this demand further. Once ratified, it will provide duty-free or preferential access for Indian handmade carpets across nearly all EU tariff lines3. This allows India's largest EU buyers even more reason to scale up purchases.
The demand for Indian handmade carpets in global markets is driven by various factors:
• Sustainability: Natural fiber rugs are increasingly favored for their eco-friendly materials, durable construction, and sustainable production methods.
• Convenience: Buyers also prioritize floor coverings that are machine washable and easy to maintain, a factor boosting demand across both handmade and machine-made segments.
The India-EU Free Trade Agreement, concluded in January 2026, is set to strengthen this demand further. Once ratified, it will provide duty-free or preferential access for Indian handmade carpets across nearly all EU tariff lines3. This allows India's largest EU buyers even more reason to scale up purchases.
Types of carpets exported from India
India’s export catalog includes a diverse mix of carpet and floor-covering products. Based on Amazon's category insights, some of the most in-demand types include:
Area rugs
Large decorative rugs that double as statement pieces. Hand-tufted or hand-knotted in wool, cotton, or jute, these are popular for living rooms, bedrooms, and kids' spaces.
Doormats
Small, practical mats are placed at entryways. Most are hand-woven using natural fibers like coir, jute, or cotton.
Runners
Long, narrow carpets with intricate designs are ideal for hallways and staircases. These are typically hand-knotted or hand-tufted in wool or polypropylene.
Bath rugs
Small rugs designed for bathroom use. Usually machine-made from absorbent fibers like chenille, cotton, or microfiber.
Weaving clusters and sourcing hubs for carpet exporters
The Mirzapur-Bhadohi region in Uttar Pradesh is India’s largest hand-knotted carpet cluster. The region employs 3.2 million people in hand-knotted and hand-tufted carpet production. Bhadohi carpet export alone contributed 60% of India's total carpet exports in FY 2023–24.4
Carpets from nine districts, including Bhadohi, Mirzapur, and Varanasi, carry the Geographical Indication (GI) tag of “handmade carpet of Bhadohi.” Other major handmade carpet export clusters are Jaipur, Panipat, and Kashmir.
Below is how different regions contribute to this sector:
Carpets from nine districts, including Bhadohi, Mirzapur, and Varanasi, carry the Geographical Indication (GI) tag of “handmade carpet of Bhadohi.” Other major handmade carpet export clusters are Jaipur, Panipat, and Kashmir.
Below is how different regions contribute to this sector:
● Bhadohi and Mirzapur: India's largest hand-knotted carpet hub, known for both hand-knotted and hand-tufted varieties.
● Jaipur: Specialises in hand-knotted wool carpets.
● Panipat: India's largest centre for hand-tufted and machine-made carpet production.
● Kashmir: Known for hand-knotted carpets, locally called "Kal Baffi," recognised for fine craftsmanship and traditional Persian-style Sehna knots.
Top countries to export carpets from India
The following are some of the largest destinations for carpet exporters in India:
Top Countries Importing Indian Carpets
Latest Import Value
Why It's a Strong Market
The US
$921 million, accounting for about 59% of total exports
The largest market for Indian exporters
Germany
$91.7 million
Second-largest carpet import market globally
The UK
$65.4 million
The India-UK FTA has opened new buyer channels
Netherlands
3% India's total carpet export business
Key re-export hub into European retail
UAE
3% of India's total carpet export business5
Gateway to wider Gulf retail and hospitality markets
Canada
$7.85 million in 20256
Rising demand for sustainable, natural fiber rugs
Sell carpets globally through Amazon: Export success stories
Government bodies that promote carpet export from India
Many government bodies support carpet manufacturers and sellers to grow their business globally. These include:
Carpet Export Promotion Council:
Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC) is an industry body under the Ministry of Textiles that promotes the export of carpets, all types of handmade rugs, floor covering, and other allied products from India. CEPC facilitates market access, trade promotion, and policy advocacy through exhibitions, buyer-seller meets, training sessions, and other programs.5
Directorate General of Foreign Trade:
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is the licensing authority for exporters, importers and export and import businesses in India. It is an official body set up for the formulation and implementation of Foreign Trade Policy. DGFT implements various policies and regulations, grants export licenses to exporters, and introduces trade incentives to improve ease of doing business.6
Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts:
Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) is an apex body for handicraft exporters that promotes the export of handicrafts from India. It ensures that Indian handicrafts goods and services are of high quality and meet international standards and specifications. It also provides infrastructure, marketing, and educational facilities to artisans.7
Other export promotion councils:
In addition to CEPC, other export promotion councils also support carpet exporters depending on their product mix and materials. These include Handloom Export Promotion Council, Jute Products Development and Export Promotion Council, Coir Board, among others. Together, these councils cover design development, policy facilitation, market intelligence, and trade promotion.
Government schemes that promote carpet export from India
Government schemes to promote carpet export from India include:
Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products:
Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Products, or RoDTEP, was initiated in 2021 to offset the taxes and duties incurred on exported goods. Under this scheme, a refund is provided for all concealed central, state, and local duties, taxes, and levies associated with the goods exported which haven’t been reimbursed through any existing program. The RoDTEP scheme for exporters covers exporters’ direct expenses and accumulated indirect taxes on goods incurred in earlier stages.
Market Access Initiative:
The Market Access Initiative (MAI) scheme is an export promotion scheme proposed to sustainably promote export trade in India. It aims to regulate a product-focus approach through market surveys to drive exports. It also helps Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts, trade bodies, research institutions, and universities access new markets and strengthen their presence in existing ones.
Interest Equalization Scheme:
The Interest Equalization Scheme (IES) is an initiative designed to make export affordable and enhance the competitiveness of Indian exporters. To do so, IES provides financial support through a subsidy on interest rates charged on export-related credit.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Scheme
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program certifies skills gained through informal or on-the-job learning. The government trained 74,891 artisans under RPL. It also ran 35 handicraft training centres serving 2,476 artisans and 16 specialised design centres serving 640 artisans.
Documents required to export carpets from India
Carpet exporters need to produce several documents for customs clearance, regulatory compliance, and smooth international trade. Below are some of the required carpet export documents in India:
Document Name
Issuing Authority
Importer Exporter Code (IEC)
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)
Carpet Export Promotion Council
GST Registration Certificate
Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN)
Shipping Bill
Customs / ICEGATE portal
Commercial Invoice
Exporter (self-generated)
Packing List
Exporter (self-generated)
Certificate of Origin
Export Inspection Council or authorized body
HS Code Declaration
Exporter or customs broker (HS codes 5701 to 5705 for carpets and rugs)
Insurance Certificate
Insurance company
Inspection Certificate (if required by buyer)
Third-party inspection agency
Labeling Compliance Documentation
As per the destination country requirements
How to start a carpet export business from India
Here is an overview of the steps involved in starting a carpet export business from India:
Step 1: Set up your business
Set up your business as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or company. Next, obtain your GST registration. Apply for an Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) online through the DGFT portal. The IEC is a mandatory document for all shipments. Registration with the Carpet Export Promotion Council in India is mandatory to avail export benefits and participate in trade fairs.
Step 2: Research your market and identify buyers
Study the target market to understand demand patterns before committing to inventory. Participate in trade fairs like the India Carpet Expo or international exhibitions to understand international price expectations. CEPC's trade reports and export data platforms also provide country-wise import volume data. Use Amazon Global Selling's category insights tool to validate product-market fit and identify trending rug styles
Step 3: Check documentation, HS codes, and compliance
Once you obtain CEPC registration for carpet export and a carpet export license in India, check for product compliance and HS codes. Confirm the correct HS code for carpet exports from India for your product type using the DGFT portal. Ensure your products meet the labeling, fiber content disclosure, and safety requirements of your target market.
Step 4: Manufacture and monitor quality
Start production with clear specifications aligned to the buyer's purchase orders. Run quality checks at three stages: raw material intake, mid-production, and pre-shipment. Use third-party inspection agencies or CEPC-empaneled testing labs where buyer contracts require inspection certificates. Maintain batch records and dye lot documentation for traceability.
Step 5: Manage logistics and shipping
Choose a reliable logistics partner and prepare your products for international shipping. Confirm incoterm agreements with your buyer before raising a commercial invoice. Prepare export-ready packaging with correct labeling for the destination country.
How to export carpets with Amazon Global Selling?
Here's how to export carpets from India with Amazon Global Selling:
Step 1: Register on Amazon Global Selling
Create an Amazon seller account on Seller Central to reach customers across 18+ Amazon global marketplaces. All you need to register is ID proof, address proof, and a credit or debit card (international transactions enabled).
Step 2: List your products
Once registered, list your products on Amazon global marketplaces. Use the latest tools and expert support to make your listings more visible to customers.
Step 3: Ship and delivery globally
Choose to manage your own logistics through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or get expert support from Amazon to store, pack, ship, and deliver internationally with Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA). If you are an FBA seller and opt for Amazon SEND, partnered carriers will handle customs clearance for you.
Step 4: Receive payments and grow your business
Receive payment in INR directly in your bank account and use tools like Brand Registry and Amazon Ads to grow your business.
Conclusion
India's carpet export potential comes from combining centuries of craft tradition with a modern export infrastructure.
Government support, active artisan clusters, and a strong export reputation position the sector for continued global growth. Indian carpet exporters continue to build long-term businesses, delivering high-quality carpets and rugs to homes worldwide.
Government support, active artisan clusters, and a strong export reputation position the sector for continued global growth. Indian carpet exporters continue to build long-term businesses, delivering high-quality carpets and rugs to homes worldwide.
Amazon Global Selling: Easy e-commerce exports and hassle-free shipping
If you are a business owner and you want to sell your products to the world, Amazon Global Selling enables you to list and sell ‘Made in India’ products on 18 Amazon global marketplaces. As an e-commerce export program, Amazon Global Selling provides support and guidance at every step of your export journey, connecting you to Amazon’s Service Provider Network for tailored compliance, payments, and logistics support.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which countries import carpets from India?
Major countries such as the US, the UK, Germany, and Canada import carpets from India. In FY25, the US was the largest importer of carpets from India, accounting for about 59% of the total export.7 If you're ready to start selling, here is how to export to the US from India.
2. Which country is the largest exporter of carpets?
While China and Turkey export large volumes of carpets globally, India is the world's largest exporter of handmade and handwoven carpets.8
3. How to get a license to export carpets from India?
To get a license to export carpets from India, apply for an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) from DGFT online. Then get your RCMC from CEPC. These two registrations let you start exporting and access government export incentive schemes.
4. Is CEPC registration mandatory to export carpets from India?
No, a CEPC registration for carpet export is not legally mandatory to ship or export carpets from India. But exporters need it to claim benefits under schemes like RoDTEP. It also gives access to subsidized trade fairs and CEPC buyer programs.
5. How long does carpet export shipping take from India to the US?
The time for carpet export shipping from India to the US depends on your shipping method, port destination, and customs clearance. By air freight, it typically takes 6-14 days to deliver. It can take around 30-45 days to deliver to the destination by sea.
6. What is the minimum investment to start a carpet export business in India?
The minimum investment to start a carpet export business in India depends on your business model. A trading company can start with minimal investment while a manufacturing setup typically needs more investments.9
7. Which Indian city is the largest exporter of handmade carpets?
Bhadohi in Uttar Pradesh is India's largest exporter of handmade carpets, earning it the title 'Carpet City of India.' Bhadohi’s carpet exporters supply hand-knotted woollen and silk carpets primarily to the US and European markets.
8. Can I export carpets from India without a factory as a trading company?
Yes, you can export carpets from India without a factory as a trading company. Source finished goods from clusters like Bhadohi, Mirzapur, Jaipur, or Kashmir. Register the IEC and RCMC in your trading company's name. Handle documentation, shipping, and compliance yourself.
9. Is there a tariff on rugs from India?
Yes, rates vary by country. The India–EU Free Trade Agreement offers duty-free or preferential access for over 99% of Indian exports to the EU. This includes handmade carpets and rugs.
10. How can I export carpet from India?
Get an IEC from DGFT and an RCMC from CEPC. Confirm HS codes and labeling rules for your target market. Amazon Global Selling lets you list on 18 global marketplaces using FBA, including exporting to the US and exporting to the UK.
Published on November 19, 2025.
Last updated on June 30, 2026
Sources:
1. https://www.ibef.org/exports/carpet-industry-in-india
2. https://www.ibef.org/exports/carpet-industry-in-india
3. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2219146®=3&lang=2
4. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/varanasi/led-by-bhadohi-up-contributes-over-to-60-of-indias-carpet-exports-cm-yogi/articleshow/122032031.cms
5. https://www.ibef.org/exports/carpet-industry-in-india
6. https://tradingeconomics.com/canada/imports/india/other-carpets-textile-floor-coverings-made-up
7. https://www.ibef.org/exports/carpet-industry-in-india
8. https://oec.world/en/profile/hs/other-carpets?selector2767id=trade_i_baci_a_22
9. https://importexportfederation.com/how-much-investment-is-needed-to-start-an-import-export-business-in-india-2025-full-guide/
Last updated on June 30, 2026
Sources:
1. https://www.ibef.org/exports/carpet-industry-in-india
2. https://www.ibef.org/exports/carpet-industry-in-india
3. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2219146®=3&lang=2
4. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/varanasi/led-by-bhadohi-up-contributes-over-to-60-of-indias-carpet-exports-cm-yogi/articleshow/122032031.cms
5. https://www.ibef.org/exports/carpet-industry-in-india
6. https://tradingeconomics.com/canada/imports/india/other-carpets-textile-floor-coverings-made-up
7. https://www.ibef.org/exports/carpet-industry-in-india
8. https://oec.world/en/profile/hs/other-carpets?selector2767id=trade_i_baci_a_22
9. https://importexportfederation.com/how-much-investment-is-needed-to-start-an-import-export-business-in-india-2025-full-guide/
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