IMPORT EXPORT MANAGER


Who is a Import Export Manager?

An Import Export Manager is a professional responsible for coordinating and overseeing the import and export activities of a business or organization. Their primary role involves managing the movement of goods and services across international borders, ensuring compliance with regulations, and optimizing supply chain efficiency.


What does an Import Export Manager do?
  1. Following Rules:  Make sure the company follows the rules when trading internationally. This includes understanding and keeping up with the laws about buying and selling across borders.
  2. Paperwork:  Handle the paperwork needed for international trade, such as documents for shipping and customs.
  3. Getting Things Where They Need to Go: Decide the best way to get products from one country to another. This includes choosing how to ship items and negotiating prices with transportation companies.
  4. Coordinating with Others: Work with different parts of the company (like production, sales, and finance) to make sure everything runs smoothly.
  5. Reducing Risks: Identify and deal with possible problems, like changes in money value, political issues, or delays in transportation.
  6. Managing Costs: Negotiate and keep track of the costs involved in trading internationally, like customs fees and transportation expenses.
  7. Research: Look into different markets to find good places to sell products or good sources to buy from. This involves understanding what competitors are doing and figuring out the right prices.
  8. Talking to People: Communicate with customers, suppliers, and partners to answer questions, solve problems, and keep good relationships.
  9. Sorting out Customs: Work with government officials to make sure products can go through customs and get to their destination.
  10. Negotiating Deals: Make agreements with companies in other countries about how things will be bought or sold.
  11. Handling Problems: Deal with any issues that come up, like delays in shipping or disagreements about products.
  12. Checking Quality: Make sure products meet the right quality standards and follow the rules of each country.
  13. Keeping Records: Keep good records of everything involved in buying and selling internationally.
  14. Problem Solving: Solve any problems that might happen during the process, like delays or damaged goods.

How to become a Import Export Manager?

Step 1:  Educational Qualifications:  After completing class 10th, pursue higher secondary education (class 12th) with a focus on commerce or business studies.

Opt for subjects such as economics, accountancy, and business studies to build a strong foundation.

Step 2:  Undergraduate Degree:  After class 12th, enroll in a bachelor's degree program related to commerce, international business, or management. Some common options include B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce), BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration), or related courses.

Step 3: Gain Relevant Skills and Knowledge: Acquire skills related to international trade, logistics, customs regulations, and supply chain management.

Stay updated on global trade trends, import-export laws, and documentation procedures.

Step 4:  Language Proficiency:  Develop proficiency in English and other relevant languages, as effective communication is crucial in international trade.

Step 5: Internships and Practical Experience: Seek internships or part-time jobs in companies involved in international trade or logistics to gain practical experience.

Step 6:  Professional Courses and Certifications: Consider enrolling in professional courses or certifications related to international trade and logistics. Institutions like the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) offer courses in this domain.

Step 7:  Higher Education (Optional): While a bachelor's degree is often sufficient, some individuals choose to pursue postgraduate studies, such as an MBA with a specialization in international business or logistics, to enhance their career prospects.


Types or Job Profiles 
  • Export Manager
  • Import Manager
  • Logistics Manager
  • International Trade Analyst
  • Customs Compliance Manager
  • Supply Chain Manager
  • Trade Finance Manager
  • Documentation Specialist
  • International Sales Manager
  • Freight and Shipping Coordinator

Employment Sectors
  • Manufacturing Industries
  • Trading Companies
  • Logistics and Transportation
  • Export-Import Consultancies
  • Government Agencies and Customs
  • Retail and E-commerce
  • International Banks
  • Shipping Companies
  • Export Promotion Councils
  • Global Supply Chain Management Companies

Salary Package / Remuneration

The salary package or remuneration of an Import and Export Manager in India can vary based on factors such as experience, industry, location, and the size of the company. 

  • Entry-Level: ₹3-6 lakh per annum (0-2 years of experience)
  • Mid-Level: ₹6-12 lakh per annum (2-5 years of experience)
  • Experienced: ₹12-20 lakh+ per annum (5-10 years of experience)
  • Senior Positions: ₹20 lakh+ per annum (10+ years of experience)