What India buys from United States
India's main imports from United States: mineral fuels/crude & lng (US$15.39 bn), machinery (US$7.25 bn), gems/precious metals (US$2.98 bn), optical/medical instruments (US$2.51 bn), electrical equipment (US$2.41 bn) (calendar 2025, UN Comtrade).
Indian import requirements
| Requirement | Authority | Document |
|---|---|---|
| Importer-Exporter Code; GST; ICEGATE | DGFT / GSTN / CBIC | IEC; GSTIN; ICEGATE DSC registration |
| Import policy classification | DGFT | ITC(HS) policy: Free/Restricted/Prohibited/STE; import authorisation if Restricted |
| Customs declaration & duty | CBIC / ICEGATE | Bill of Entry; BCD + AIDC + SWS(10% of BCD) + IGST |
| Import clearance NOC | FSSAI | FICS NOC after Bill of Entry; FSSAI Central licence |
| Import permit before shipment | DPPQS (Plant Quarantine) | Import permit PQ-01/PQ-02; PSC with additional declarations |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Policy watch
As of 2026-11: almonds are 'Free' to import with FSSAI Central licence, FICS clearance and a phytosanitary certificate. India's MFN duty is a specific rate — historically ₹35/kg in-shell and ₹100/kg shelled (tariff database; verify current rate on ICEGATE). Australian almonds have an ECTA TRQ of 34,000 t at a 50% cut (2023). A Feb 2026 US-India framework signalled lower duties on US almonds, not confirmed as implemented. Sources: https://eximguru.com/indian-customs-duty/08021100-almonds-in-shell.aspx; https://almonds.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/2024GTRA0009_%20Market%20Profile_India_Sep2024.pdf; https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2026/02/16/us-india-trade-deal/.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import almonds from United States to India?
Place the order with a verified United States supplier, ship to an Indian port or ICD, and clear customs with an IEC and Importer-Exporter Code; GST; ICEGATE and Import policy classification. We manage supplier checks, shipment and clearance for you.
Is there a trade agreement between India and United States?
No FTA; BTA under negotiation (talks 1–4 Jun 2026) [S7]. Tariff on Indian goods as of 22 Oct 2026: MFN + 10% Section 301 (from 24 Jul 2026), or the Section 232 rate for steel/aluminium/autos/copper; IEEPA tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court 20 Feb 2026 — verify weekly [06 §C.3]
Where in United States is almonds made?
Main hubs: Modesto, Fresno, Sacramento, Oakland (port). California's Central Valley supplies about 93% of India's almond imports; in-shell and kernels in all major varieties.
What HS code is used for importing almonds into India?
Usually HS 080211; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source almonds from United States
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.