Entering the coir industry as a young exporter is both thrilling and full of hurdles. While global demand for eco-friendly products like coco peat, coir mats, and grow bags is growing rapidly, breaking into this traditional space takes more than just ambition.
As someone who started Sonkar Export at the age of 20, here are some real challenges I—and many other young entrepreneurs—have faced in the journey of building a sustainable export business from scratch:
1. đź’Ľ Lack of Industry Background
The coir sector is deeply rooted in family-run businesses that have been around for generations. Without prior connections or industry lineage, gaining credibility, sourcing quality products, and understanding the backend processes can be overwhelming in the beginning.
2. 🔍 Finding Reliable Suppliers
Trust is earned, not given. As a newcomer, I often faced:
Unclear or fluctuating pricing
Inconsistent product quality
High minimum order demands
Delays in delivery and communication
➡️ Solution? I started visiting factories in person, inspecting quality firsthand, and nurturing long-term relationships built on transparency.
3. đźšš Export Process & Logistics Complexity
Exporting coir products like coco peat isn’t just about shipping—it includes:
HS codes & compliance
Fumigation, packaging, and certification
Documentation & container booking
Customs clearance in India and destination countries
Without a mentor or prior experience, this was one of the most confusing yet critical areas to master.
4. đź’¸ Funding & Cash Flow Struggles
Starting young often means limited capital. Handling advance payments to suppliers, shipping costs, packaging investments, and delayed buyer payments can strain cash flow.
Smart budgeting, reinvesting early profits, and negotiating better terms became essential in sustaining growth.
5. 🌍 Building Buyer Confidence Globally
International buyers—especially from the USA, Europe, and the Middle East—tend to trust established exporters. As a fresh face, I had to work twice as hard to prove:
Consistent product quality
Strong communication and service
Certifications and process transparency
On-time delivery and fair pricing
Each successful deal became a stepping stone to stronger credibility.
đź’ˇ My Message to Young Exporters
Every challenge is a chance to level up. Whether it’s your first container or your first big buyer meeting—stay consistent, learn fast, and be honest.
➡️ Visit farms.
➡️ Attend industry expos.
➡️ Build simple but strong systems.
At Sonkar Export, we’ve turned obstacles into advantages—and today, we proudly serve partners around the globe with a team built from the ground up.
đź‘Š If I can do it at 20, so can you. The journey is tough, but the rewards are real.