How to Export Scarves & Shawls from India to USA

Introduction to Exporting Scarves & Shawls from India

India has long been recognized as a global hub for exquisite textiles, including scarves, stoles, and shawls. From the fine Pashmina of Kashmir to handwoven silk and cotton varieties from Varanasi and Jaipur, Indian scarves have captivated global buyers for their craftsmanship and elegance.

The United States, with its vast consumer base and appreciation for artisan fashion, presents one of the most lucrative markets for Indian exporters. Whether you’re a small-scale artisan or a large textile manufacturer, exporting scarves and shawls from India to the USA can open doors to high profitability — provided you understand the right process, documentation, and legal formalities.

The Global Popularity of Indian Scarves & Shawls

Indian scarves and shawls are prized for their handmade designs, sustainable materials, and vibrant cultural aesthetics. Many American consumers prefer ethically sourced, eco-friendly fashion, which aligns perfectly with India’s handloom heritage.

Products like woolen Kashmiri shawls, silk scarves, pashmina wraps, and cotton stoles are in high demand among U.S. retailers and online marketplaces. These items not only represent fashion but also carry a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and authenticity.

Why the USA is a Top Market for Indian Textile Exports

The United States is among the top five importers of Indian textiles. According to India’s Ministry of Commerce, the U.S. accounts for nearly 27% of India’s total textile exports, driven by a growing interest in sustainable and ethnic products.

Additionally, the USMCA trade environment offers predictable regulations, while eCommerce platforms such as Amazon, Etsy, and eBay have simplified cross-border retail. This makes it easier than ever for Indian exporters to directly reach American consumers without relying solely on intermediaries.

Understanding the Export Process from India to USA

Exporting scarves and shawls requires compliance with both Indian and U.S. regulations. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps every exporter must follow:

Step 1: Obtain an Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT

Before you begin exporting, you need to obtain an IEC code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). This unique 10-digit number is mandatory for all export activities. You can apply online through the DGFT portal using your PAN, bank details, and business documents.

Step 2: Register Your Business with Export Promotion Councils

Joining bodies such as the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) or the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) offers access to government incentives, international exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets.

Step 3: Choose the Right Product Category (HSN Codes)

Scarves and shawls fall under HSN Code 6214. Accurate classification ensures you comply with customs requirements and helps determine applicable duties and benefits.

Market Research & Target Audience in the USA

Understanding the U.S. market is crucial before sending your first shipment.

Identifying the Right Buyer Segment

Segment your audience into:

• Retail stores & boutiques looking for luxury handmade pieces
• Wholesalers sourcing bulk quantities for seasonal demand
• Online resellers targeting sustainable or boho fashion lovers

Analyzing Trends: Sustainable, Handmade, and Organic Fabrics

Recent trends show rising demand for organic cotton, bamboo fiber, and cruelty-free wool scarves. Incorporating sustainability into your production and packaging can significantly boost your brand’s appeal.

Documentation Required for Exporting Scarves & Shawls

To avoid shipment delays, prepare these essential export documents:

Compliance with US Customs and Textile Labeling Laws

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires textile labels to include fiber content, country of origin, and manufacturer’s identity. Ensure compliance to avoid penalties or rejection.

Packaging, Branding, and Labeling Standards for the USA

Packaging Guidelines

• Use moisture-proof, recyclable materials
• Avoid plastic wrapping where possible
• Include barcodes and SKU labels for inventory tracking

Labeling & Branding Requirements

Comply with FTC’s Textile Fiber Products Identification Act by clearly mentioning:

• Fiber composition (e.g., 100% silk)
• Country of origin (Made in India)
• Care instructions (Dry Clean Only)

Choosing the Right Shipping Method and Logistics Partner

Air Freight vs Sea Freight

• Air freight is ideal for small, high-value shipments — faster but costlier
• Sea freight suits bulk orders with lower cost per unit

Tips to Reduce Shipping Costs

• Consolidate shipments
• Partner with reputed logistics companies like DHL, FedEx, or UPS
• Use freight forwarders who handle customs documentation

Export Pricing, Payment Methods & Trade Terms

Setting the right price for your scarves and shawls is crucial for success in the competitive U.S. market. Your pricing should reflect not only production and logistics costs but also market expectations and profit margins.

Setting the Right Export Price (FOB, CIF, etc.)

When pricing your export products, familiarize yourself with Incoterms (International Commercial Terms). The most common ones used in textile exports are:

• FOB (Free on Board): The seller covers all costs until the goods are loaded onto the shipping vessel.
• CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): The seller pays for shipping and insurance until the goods reach the destination port.
• EXW (Ex-Works): The buyer bears all costs from the seller’s premises onward.

Before finalizing your pricing, factor in:

• Production costs (fabric, stitching, embroidery, etc.)
• Packaging and labeling costs
• Freight and insurance
• Customs duties and taxes
• Profit margin (typically 10–20% for handcrafted goods)

Safe Payment Methods: Letter of Credit, PayPal, and Advance T/T

To protect yourself from payment risks, choose secure payment methods. The most trusted include:

• Letter of Credit (LC): Offers maximum safety for both buyer and seller.
• PayPal or Wise: Convenient for small consignments or eCommerce exports.
• Advance T/T (Telegraphic Transfer): Suitable for established buyers with good track records.

Always insist on partial advance payments for first-time buyers and use trade contracts to outline terms clearly.

Marketing & Selling Scarves & Shawls in the USA

A well-defined marketing strategy can help Indian exporters reach the right audience and build brand loyalty.

Building an Online Store or Using Marketplaces like Etsy & Amazon

For small or medium exporters, online marketplaces are the easiest entry points. Consider:

• Etsy: Perfect for handmade, vintage, or artisanal scarves.
• Amazon Global Selling: Offers large reach and built-in logistics (FBA – Fulfillment by Amazon).
• Shopify or WooCommerce: Ideal for creating your own eCommerce website to build brand identity.

Enhance visibility with professional product photos, detailed descriptions, and optimized keywords such as “handmade Indian shawl”, “pashmina scarf USA”, or “organic cotton wrap.”

Partnering with Distributors and Participating in Trade Fairs

To scale your export business, collaborate with U.S. wholesalers, fashion boutiques, and designers. Attend international expos like:

• Texworld USA (New York)
• Apparel Sourcing USA
• MAGIC Las Vegas

These trade fairs provide direct access to retail buyers and import agents looking for authentic Indian textile products.

Challenges & Solutions in Exporting Textiles to the USA

Common Pitfalls Faced by New Exporters

1. Inadequate documentation: Missing certificates or incorrect HS codes can delay shipments.
2. Quality inconsistencies: U.S. buyers demand uniform quality and exact specifications.
3. High shipping costs: Many small exporters underestimate freight and customs duties.
4. Currency fluctuations: Changes in INR–USD exchange rates can affect profits.

Overcoming Quality, Compliance, and Shipment Delays

• Conduct a pre-shipment inspection to ensure quality consistency.
• Partner with logistics experts who specialize in apparel and textile shipping.
• Use export insurance to protect against transit losses or payment defaults.
• Maintain open communication with buyers regarding timelines and compliance updates.

Legal & Tax Considerations for Export Businesses

GST Refunds and Duty Drawbacks for Exporters

Under India’s GST framework, exporters can claim refunds or duty drawbacks on taxes paid for inputs used in export production. You can either:

• Export under Letter of Undertaking (LUT) without paying IGST, or
• Pay IGST and later claim a refund through the GST portal.

Additionally, schemes like RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products) offer tax relief on indirect levies.

US Import Duties and Tariffs on Textile Products

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulates import duties. Scarves and shawls typically fall under:

• HS Code 6214.10 (Silk scarves)
• HS Code 6214.20 (Wool scarves)
• HS Code 6214.30 (Synthetic fiber scarves)

Average import duty rates range from 5% to 12%, depending on material and composition. Exporters should check the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for exact duty rates before pricing.

Case Study: A Small Indian Brand Succeeding in the US Market

Consider Aarika Handlooms, a small textile startup from Varanasi that began exporting silk scarves to the USA in 2018. They focused on:

• Eco-friendly dyes and organic packaging
• Listing products on Etsy and Amazon Handmade
• Using Instagram for influencer marketing

In three years, the brand grew from local exports to over $250,000 in annual U.S. sales, proving that with creativity and compliance, even small businesses can thrive internationally.

FAQs About Exporting Scarves & Shawls from India to the USA

1. What is the first step to export scarves from India?
You must first obtain an Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT. Without it, you cannot legally export any goods.

2. Do I need any special licenses to export scarves?
Generally, no special license is required beyond IEC, but registration with export councils like EPCH is highly recommended for credibility and benefits.

3. How can I find buyers in the USA for my scarves and shawls?
Attend textile trade fairs, use B2B platforms like Alibaba or IndiaMART, and reach out to boutiques through LinkedIn and fashion directories.

4. What fabrics sell best in the U.S. market?
Lightweight materials like cotton, silk, and viscose are popular for scarves, while cashmere and wool perform well in winter collections.

5. Are there restrictions on exporting animal-based products like pashmina?
Yes. You must ensure compliance with wildlife and CITES regulations when exporting products derived from animals, including genuine pashmina wool.

6. How can I ensure my shipments reach safely?
Always choose reliable logistics partners like DHL, FedEx, or Maersk, insure your goods, and track shipments via digital freight systems.

Conclusion: Turning Your Export Dream into a Global Success

Exporting scarves and shawls from India to the USA is a profitable venture when approached with the right planning and compliance. By obtaining the required licenses, understanding customs regulations, and building strong branding, you can tap into the massive U.S. market for sustainable, handcrafted fashion.

Remember, success in exports is not just about selling products — it’s about building trust, consistency, and cultural authenticity. Start small, focus on quality, and your Indian textile brand could soon become a global favorite.