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: 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 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 fresh apples made?
Main hubs: Wenatchee, Yakima, Seattle/Tacoma (ports). Washington State Red Delicious, Gala, Fuji; proposed US quota at 25% duty with ₹80/kg MIP under the interim deal (status unconfirmed).
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 United States
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.