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Spices Board of India: What it is & how to register?
Spices Board of India is the government body regulating and promoting spice exports. Learn its role, eligibility, and how to register as an exporter.
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India is the world's largest spice producer, consumer, and exporter. For spice farmers and traders looking to access international markets, the first step is registering with the Spices Board of India.
This guide gives you a clear picture of what the Spices Board does and how it works to help you obtain your CRES (Certificate of Registration as Exporter of Spices). We also discuss the Spices Board of India’s registration process and what benefits it offers for exporters and manufacturers.
This guide gives you a clear picture of what the Spices Board does and how it works to help you obtain your CRES (Certificate of Registration as Exporter of Spices). We also discuss the Spices Board of India’s registration process and what benefits it offers for exporters and manufacturers.
What is the Spices Board of India?
Vision: Sustain India's leadership in global spice trade and value-added products, driving agricultural export growth.
Mission: Become the international processing hub and premier supplier of clean, safe, value-added spices to global industrial and retail markets.
The Spices Board of India headquarters are located in Kochi (Cochin), Kerala, and headed by a chairman ranking equivalent to a Joint Secretary to the Government of India. The 32-member board represents stakeholders across the spice industry, including growers, exporters, processors, and government representatives.
Mission: Become the international processing hub and premier supplier of clean, safe, value-added spices to global industrial and retail markets.
The Spices Board of India headquarters are located in Kochi (Cochin), Kerala, and headed by a chairman ranking equivalent to a Joint Secretary to the Government of India. The 32-member board represents stakeholders across the spice industry, including growers, exporters, processors, and government representatives.
Did you know?
Spices are among the top export products from India, with exports reaching US$ 4.72 billion in FY25.1
Between April and July 2025, exports totaled ₹13,301 crore (approximately $ 1.6 billion)2, reflecting strong global demand and the Spices Board's effectiveness in facilitating trade.
Between April and July 2025, exports totaled ₹13,301 crore (approximately $ 1.6 billion)2, reflecting strong global demand and the Spices Board's effectiveness in facilitating trade.
Role and functions of the Spices Board of India
The role of the Spices Board of India is to support the entire spice value chain, from farmers to exporters. The Spices Board of India functions as a regulatory, developmental, and promotional body that strengthens India's position in the global spice market. Below are some of its key roles and functions:
1. Export promotion
The Spices Board helps you reach international buyers through trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets. It organizes India's participation in global spice events and connects you directly with overseas buyers. For spice exporters and manufacturers exploring new markets, the board provides support to help you enter those destinations.
2. Quality control and certification
The board ensures your exported spices meet international quality standards. You can get your products tested at their accredited laboratories across India. Once tested, the Spices Board will issue a globally recognized quality certificate that helps you clear customs faster and builds trust with international buyers.
3. Registration and licensing
You need to register as a spice exporter through the board's CRES system before you can legally export. After registration, you'll also need to prepare the documents required for export for each international shipment.
4. Research and development
The board funds research to improve how spices are grown, processed, and quality-tested. It partners with agricultural universities to develop better farming methods. You can access their guidance on pest control, soil management, and what to do after harvesting your crops.
5. Farmer support
If you're a spice grower, the board offers training programs to help you improve your farming practices and increase yields. It also helps you access quality seeds and modern farming tools.
6. Market intelligence
The board regularly publishes reports on global spice prices, what buyers are looking for, and where new opportunities exist. You can use this information to decide which markets to target and when to export for better prices.
7. Entrepreneurship development
The Spices Board of India runs training programs that teach you how to export, maintain quality standards, and market your products internationally. These programs also guide how to add value to your spices, build your brand, and package products for global markets. As the primary link between Indian spice exporters and international buyers, the board ensures quality, compliance, and market access.
Spices covered under the Spices Board Act
The Spices Board regulates 52 scheduled spices under the Spices Board Act of 1986. These spices, in any form including powders, oils, and oleoresins, fall under the board's export promotion and quality control framework.3 The Act also covers spice products in all forms: curry powders, spice oils, oleoresins, and spice mixes.
Benefits of Spices Board registration for Indian exporters
1. Access to export incentives: Once registered, you can apply for financial assistance under its export development and promotion schemes. These incentives are provided subject to specific eligibility criteria, and in some cases, require brand registration with the Board. Eligible exporters can access support for approved activities, helping offset export-related costs and improve overall profitability.4
2. Quality testing support: You can get your spice samples tested at the Spice Board's laboratories before shipping. This confirms your products meet international quality standards and helps prevent rejections at customs.
3. Training and capacity building: If you grow spices, you can join PCQI-HF training for US FDA compliance, entrepreneurship programs, and agricultural training sessions. These programs teach you better farming methods and prepare you to meet global buyer requirements.
Documents required for Spices Board registration
To complete your Spices Board registration, you'll need to prepare and submit specific documents based on your business structure. Here's an overview of some key documents you will need:
Document
Applicable to
PAN Card
All applicants
IEC (Importer Exporter Certificate) from DGFT
All applicants
GST Registration Certificate
All applicants
Bank Statement or cancelled cheque (current account)
All applicants
Two passport-size photos of proprietor, Managing Director, and Director
or any authorized signatory
All applicants
Address Proof of the business premises
All applicants
Certificate of Incorporation + MOA + AOA
Companies
Partnership Deed
Partnership firms
FSSAI/ Processing License5
Manufacturer and Merchant exporters
MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) Certificate (if applicable)6
Manufacturer exporters
Authorization letter (if applicant is not the owner)
Applicable to all applicants
Export turnover details for the previous year
Renewal applicants7
All documents must be self-attested and uploaded in PDF or JPEG format as specified on the portal.
What is CRES? Certificate of Registration as Exporter of Spices
Certificate of Registration as Exporter of Spices or CRES is a mandatory registration that you need to legally export spices from India. The Spices Board issues a CRES certificate to verify that you're authorized to export scheduled spices. There are two categories of CRES applicants:
1. Merchant exporter: You buy spices from farmers or traders and export them without processing.
2. Manufacturer exporter: You process spices through cleaning, grinding, blending, or packaging before exporting them.
Once issued, your CRES certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue. You must renew it before it expires. Late renewal is subject to monthly penalties. Also note that if you don't conduct any export activity during the three-year validity period, the board may reject your renewal application.
Why is Spice Board registration mandatory?
Spice Board registration is mandatory because it's required by law under the Spices Board Act, 1986. If you want to export food products classified as spices, you can't legally do so without a valid Certificate of Registration as an Exporter of Spices (CRES).
Exporting spices without the Spices Board registration can result in certain regulatory implications, such as:
Exporting spices without the Spices Board registration can result in certain regulatory implications, such as:
For violations of registration requirements (Section 11) or Board orders (Section 17):
1. Confiscation of spice stock under the Customs Act, 1962.
2. Imprisonment of up to one year.
3. Fine of up to ₹1,000, or both imprisonment and fine.8
For other violations of the Spices Board Act, rules, or regulations:
4. Imprisonment of up to six months.
5. Fine of up to ₹1,000, or both imprisonment and fine.
6. An additional daily fine of up to ₹50 per day for continuing violations after conviction.9
The specific penalty imposed depends on the nature and severity of the violation, as determined by the adjudicating authority.
Latest CRES rules and compliance for 2026
The Certificate of Registration as an Exporter of Spices (CRES) follows updated rules for the 2023-2026 block period. Here's what you need to know:
1. All licensed cardamom dealers must submit monthly (including Nil) returns to the Spices Board of India by the 10th, and clear pending 2023-26 returns by 10 April 2026.10
2. Registered exporters must file quarterly (including Nil) returns via the Spices Board of India ESS portal and clear pending 2023-26 filings by 15 April 2026 to avoid restrictions.11
3. Exporters must ensure spices meet Taiwan’s pesticide residue limits, as repeated non-compliance flagged by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) may trigger stricter controls (to be announced on 11 May 2026) by the Spices Board of India and risk import application acceptance suspension by the TFDA.12
4. The Spices Board of India has permitted exporters to re-stuff returned consignments via Export Support System (ESS) between 3-25 April 2026 without retesting if seals match, amid Strait of Hormuz disruptions.13
Step-by-step process for Spices Board registration in 2026
Here's how to register with the Spices Board of India in six clear steps:
Step 1: Get your Importer Exporter Code (IEC)
You need to apply for an IEC from the Director General of the Foreign Trade Office (DGFT) or Joint Director General of the Foreign Trade Office (Jt. DGFT) in your area of operation. The code is mandatory before you can register with the Spices Board.
Step 2: Obtain a confidential report from your bank
Get a confidential report from your operating bank. Use the format available on the Spices Board website. Your bank will verify your financial standing and business credibility.
Step 3: Get your GST certificate
Obtain your GST certificate from the tax authorities. The certificate proves your business is registered under the Goods and Services Tax system.
Step 4: Get your central FSSAI certificate
Apply for and receive your central FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) certificate. It certifies that your spice handling meets food safety standards. If you're looking to export food products from India, FSSAI certification is essential for compliance with international food safety regulations.
Step 5: Submit additional documents (for manufacturer exporters only)
If you're applying as a manufacturer or exporter, you need to submit these additional documents:
1. Copy of your MSME certificate
2. Valid Consent to Operate issued by the Pollution Control Board (PCB)
3. Proof of ownership of your processing unit building (valid lease agreement, rent agreement, or recent property tax receipt)
1. Copy of your MSME certificate
2. Valid Consent to Operate issued by the Pollution Control Board (PCB)
3. Proof of ownership of your processing unit building (valid lease agreement, rent agreement, or recent property tax receipt)
Step 6: Pay the required application fee
Submit your application fee through the online payment gateway on the Spices Board portal. Once payment is confirmed, your application will be processed.
Note that the application ID does not guarantee eligibility or approval14 for any financial assistance under board schemes.
Note that the application ID does not guarantee eligibility or approval14 for any financial assistance under board schemes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is a CRES needed for export?
You can't legally export spices from India without CRES. It shows you meet quality and safety standards. It's required by law under the Spices Board Act, 1986.
2. What are the documents required for CRES?
You'll need a PAN Card, an IEC Certificate, your GST Registration number, and bank proof for all applications. Companies need incorporation documents. Partnership firms need a partnership deed.
3. What is meant by the mandatory export inspection?
Mandatory export inspection refers to a compulsory quality check that certain spice products must undergo before they can be exported from India. The Spices Board of India checks your spices before you ship them internationally. This ensures they meet quality and safety standards.
4. What are the penalties applicable for violation of the Spices Board Certificate?
Violations of the Spices Board Certificate can result in penalties, including suspension or cancellation of your CRES and monetary fines. Violators may face legal action or prosecution under the Spices Board Act, 1986.
5. Who has the power for authorizing the Spices Board of India?
The Spices Board of India works under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Central Government appoints the Chairman. It gets its authority from the Spices Board Act, 1986.
6. Is Spice Board return filing mandatory for spice exporters?
Yes, you're required to file periodic returns showing your export activities. Not filing can result in penalties. Your registration may also be suspended.
7. Is there any fee for Spice Board Registration?
Yes, there's a registration fee. The amount depends on your business type and registration category. You can check current fees on the official Spices Board website.
Published on March 17, 2022.
Updated on May 11, 2026.
Sources:
1. https://www.ibef.org/exports/spice-industry-india
2. https://www.ibef.org/exports/spice-industry-india
3. https://www.indianspices.com/about-us/constitution.html
4. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/Export_Development_Promotion.pdf
5. https://indianspices.org.in/CRES_new/e-r-o/exporters-registration/form/registration_faq.php
6. https://indianspices.org.in/CRES_new/e-r-o/exporters-registration/form/registration_faq.php
7. https://indianspices.org.in/CRES_new/e-r-o/exporters-registration/form/registration_faq.php
8. https://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/ind98222.pdf
9. https://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/ind98222.pdf
10. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/DEALERS%20-%20CIRCULAR.pdf
11. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/SUBMISSION%20OF%20PENDING%20QER%20-%20CIRCULAR.pdf
12. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/Trade%20advisory%20Compliance%20with%20Taiwan%20Pesticide%20Residue%20Standards%20160426.pdf
13. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/Circular%2001.2026.27%20Restuffing%20of%20Consignment%20returned%20due%20to%20West%20Asia%20Crisis.pdf
14. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/Guidelines%20for%20implementation%20of%20SPICED%20Scheme-signed.pdf
Updated on May 11, 2026.
Sources:
1. https://www.ibef.org/exports/spice-industry-india
2. https://www.ibef.org/exports/spice-industry-india
3. https://www.indianspices.com/about-us/constitution.html
4. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/Export_Development_Promotion.pdf
5. https://indianspices.org.in/CRES_new/e-r-o/exporters-registration/form/registration_faq.php
6. https://indianspices.org.in/CRES_new/e-r-o/exporters-registration/form/registration_faq.php
7. https://indianspices.org.in/CRES_new/e-r-o/exporters-registration/form/registration_faq.php
8. https://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/ind98222.pdf
9. https://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/ind98222.pdf
10. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/DEALERS%20-%20CIRCULAR.pdf
11. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/SUBMISSION%20OF%20PENDING%20QER%20-%20CIRCULAR.pdf
12. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/Trade%20advisory%20Compliance%20with%20Taiwan%20Pesticide%20Residue%20Standards%20160426.pdf
13. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/Circular%2001.2026.27%20Restuffing%20of%20Consignment%20returned%20due%20to%20West%20Asia%20Crisis.pdf
14. https://www.indianspices.com/sites/default/files/Guidelines%20for%20implementation%20of%20SPICED%20Scheme-signed.pdf
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