Raakesh Saraff

About Raakesh Saraff

With over 30 years of experience in export-import intelligence, my journey has been driven by a single mission - to bridge the gap between raw data and meaningful, actionable trade insights.From founding InfodriveIndia in 1996 in Kolkata to building it into a global leader in EXIM market intelligence, I have consistently focused on delivering authentic, reliable, and decision-ready information to businesses worldwide.In recent years, two key milestones stand out in my journey:* Built the Covid Survival Strategy Tool to help businesses make data-driven decisions in uncertain times.* Authoring the book Plan or Perish - a practical guide emphasizing the importance of strategy, foresight, and data-driven execution in business success.Key achievements over the years:* Expanded data coverage from 8 ports to 140+ ports globally, reducing data turnaround from 90 days to near real-time insights.* Built a comprehensive EXIM intelligence platform with 3.5 Billion shipment records.* Launched Eximguru.com - a free and widely trusted EXIM encyclopedia simplifying complex trade laws.* Played an active role in advocating improvements in export-import data transparency with the Government of India.From a small startup to a trusted industry leader, the journey has been about continuously innovating to eliminate information gaps in global trade and empower businesses with clarity and confidence.Today, I lead a team of 250+ professionals serving clients globally - all committed to putting customer interests first and constantly finding smarter, more meaningful ways to create impact.Beyond business, I strongly believe in giving back to society. I am actively associated with several social and charitable initiatives. Buddy’s Club is one such initiative focused on fellowship, training, and supporting social causes.I also serve as Director at Lions Club, Alaknanda, New Delhi, and am associated with Landmark Education and Satsang Bhavan Giridih. I am passionate about education for underprivileged children, elderly care, and blind relief initiatives.I am an alumnus of Anna University, Chennai, hail from Fatehpur Shekhawati, Rajasthan, and belong to the Marwari community. Outside work, I enjoy traveling, yoga, music, and swimming.My passion is to lead change and deliver measurable business outcomes. I am always open to exchanging ideas and connecting with like-minded individuals.If you have any questions or would like to discuss with me, please connect with me on LinkedIn.

Experience

1. Founder and Managing Director

   Infodrive India

   Mar 1996 — Present

   Export Import Market Intelligence- Growth Strategy for Profits in Export Import - Choosing a High growth Product, Buyers and Market - Business Planning and Consulting - Market Research- Training and Coaching

Education

• Anna University Chennai

  Bachelor's degree, International Business/Trade/Commerce

  1987 — 1990

• Landmark

  Landmark Forum, Organizational Leadership

  2009 — 2011

• A G Jain School

  High School, Business/Commerce, General

Skills

• Marketing Strategy
• Social Entrepreneurship
• Import Export
• Statistical Data Analysis
• Human Resources
• Business Strategy
• SEO
• Market Intelligence
• Start-Ups
• Export Import Competitive Intelligence
• Entrepreneurship
• Brand Development
• Market Research
• Strategic Planning
• Venture Capital
• Leadership
• International Trade
• Management
• International Business
• Team Management
• Business Development
• Project Management
• New Business Development
• Strategic Consulting
• Management Consulting
• Marketing
• Strategy
• E-Commerce
• Business Planning