What India buys from New Zealand
India's main imports from New Zealand: iron & steel (US$0.09 bn), wood/timber (US$0.07 bn), fruit incl. kiwifruit & apples (US$0.06 bn), aluminium (US$0.06 bn), wood pulp (US$0.05 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: apples need a plant-quarantine import permit and phytosanitary certificate (PQ Order 2003), FSSAI FICS clearance, and entry through notified ports. MFN: 50% duty plus a minimum import price of ₹50/kg (GTRI via FreshPlaza; sources differ on the MIP level — verify). New Zealand: FTA quota from 20 Oct 2026 at 25% duty, min CIF US$1.25/kg. USA: proposed quota at 25% duty and ₹80/kg MIP, not confirmed in force. EU: FTA quota not yet in force. Sources: https://www.freshplaza.com/north-america/article/9811666/indian-apple-growers-pressured-by-rising-u-s-imports/; https://www.freshplaza.com/asia/article/9884034/india-sets-import-quotas-and-tariffs-for-new-zealand-apples-and-kiwifruit/; https://ppqs.gov.in.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import fresh apples from New Zealand to India?
Place the order with a verified New Zealand 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 New Zealand?
India–New Zealand FTA signed April 2026, in force 20 Oct 2026 (rules of origin notified 12 Oct 2026 per S7; S10 says both sides ratified 21 Sep 2026) — very new, confirm tariff schedules before pricing. CONFLICT: 06 §C.8 still says 'no FTA (negotiations launched 2025)'; S7 (28 Oct 2026) is newer — treat as in force, confirm with MPI/MFAT
Where in New Zealand is fresh apples made?
Main hubs: Hastings/Napier (Hawke's Bay), Nelson, Tauranga (port). Premium Royal Gala, Jazz, Envy; India-NZ FTA in force 20 Oct 2026 with an in-quota 25% duty and minimum CIF US$1.25/kg (Apr–Aug window).
What HS code is used for importing fresh apples into India?
Usually HS 080810; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source fresh apples from New Zealand
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.