In the Fahad Siddiqui Podcast, Abhishek Vyas chats with Fahad Siddiqui—an experienced export coach and entrepreneur who has seen both the highs and lows of India’s import-export industry. From surviving a ₹1.25 crore scam to building a profitable business across carpets, leather, and scrap exports, this conversation reveals the raw reality behind a sector often glamorized on social media. The Fahad Siddiqui Podcast also highlights how, in 2025, import-export offers major opportunities—while remaining full of risks for new entrants.
Why Import Export is the Hot Business in 2025
If you’ve ever searched for a “low investment high return business,” the import export model likely showed up. But Fahad warns: this business isn’t just about uploading invoices and shipping products. From ECGC insurance to freight handling, there’s a lot under the surface that first-time exporters overlook. Many fall prey to the myth that ₹25K and a few online videos are enough to build an export empire.
Scams, Losses, and Comebacks in Import Export Business
The Fahad Siddiqui Podcast dives into the high-risk, high-reward world of import-export business. In this episode, Fahad candidly shares how he lost ₹35 lakhs in a scam early in his career. He explains how fake buyers, shell companies, and weak export contracts often trap new exporters. Instead of giving up, Fahad rebuilt his business by focusing on verified buyers, strong documentation, and consistent product quality.
Today, as discussed in the Fahad Siddiqui Podcast, he runs a multi-product export business spanning carpets, leather goods, industrial scrap, and Ayurvedic products—proving that resilience and smart strategy can turn setbacks into long-term success
How to Start an Import Export Business in India
A major highlight of the Fahad Siddiqui Podcast is its step-by-step breakdown of starting an import-export business in India. Fahad explains everything from IEC code registration and HS code selection to export documentation and DGFT licensing. He also covers essential requirements like PAN, bank certificates, and company registration, while pointing out common beginner mistakes.
The episode further explores export GST refunds, shipment tracking through CHA (Custom House Agents), and how ECGC protection can safeguard exporters from foreign payment defaults—crucial insights for anyone entering global trade.
What Products to Import Export in 2025?
According to the Fahad Siddiqui Podcast, 2025 presents major opportunities for niche exports. Fahad highlights strong global demand for Made-in-India products such as Ayurvedic goods, hair extensions, leather accessories, carpets, and scrap materials. He emphasizes that success lies not in volume, but in targeting the right markets and building long-term buyer relationships.
For example:
- Japan and Europe have strong demand for Ayurvedic and organic products.
- The Middle East remains hot for carpets, rugs, and handcrafted leather.
- Scrap export is booming—but only if you follow pollution control board and customs clearance rules correctly.
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The Role of Trust and Relationships in Import Export
One of the strongest lessons from the Fahad Siddiqui Podcast is that export business runs on trust, not price wars. Unlike e-commerce, exporters often work with the same buyers for years if they maintain quality, transparency, and timely delivery. Fahad stresses that trust is the real capital in global trade.
He also highlights the importance of strong relationships with CHA agents, freight forwarders, and overseas buyers. Attending trade fairs and joining export councils can significantly boost credibility and deal flow.
Why E-Commerce Exports Often Fail
Fahad also explains why e-commerce exports are not as easy as they seem. From returns and refund challenges to customs clearance delays, online exports to individual buyers can quickly become loss-making. Instead, he suggests focusing on bulk B2B exports—a more sustainable and scalable model for serious entrepreneurs.
Platforms like IndiaMART, Alibaba, and direct sourcing at expos work better for finding serious bulk buyers. However, background verification is a must to avoid fake leads.
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Conclusion
The Fahad Siddiqui Podcast with Abhishek Vyas makes it clear that while import-export remains a powerful business model in 2025, success requires preparation, patience, and trust. With the right legal setup, product-market fit, and disciplined processes, even a small ₹25K start can grow into a multi-crore export venture. The episode serves as a practical guide for entrepreneurs serious about building a sustainable global trade business.
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By doing deep due-diligence: verifying buyer, checking company, ensuring clear contracts, and consulting experts before shipping. Many entrepreneurs face fake buyers, shell companies and loopholes in export contracts that lead to major losses. A big risk is when goods are shipped but payment or proper remittance isn’t received — exposing you to financial loss and trouble.
