Indian import policy
As of 2026-11: metal scrap imports need a pre-shipment inspection certificate (PSIC) from a DGFT-recognised agency, plus compliance with the Hazardous & Other Wastes Rules 2016 for the scrap category (research file; confirm requirements per grade). Duty: one secondary source reports copper scrap was exempted from BCD in Budget 2025-26 — confirm on ICEGATE. BIS: the Copper Products QCO 2024 covers products such as wire rod/cathode, not scrap, and an amendment of 30 Jun 2026 relaxes one category until 1 Dec 2026 (secondary source — confirm). Sources: research/02-indian-imports.md; https://www.corpseed.com/law-update/copper-products-quality-control-amendment-order-2026-compliance-guide-importers-manufacturers; https://www.icegate.gov.in.
Check the current DGFT, BIS and CBIC notifications before contracting.
Importing copper scrap into India: 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 |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Import trend
NITI Aayog: copper imports USD 11.8 bn CY2025 (13.9% CAGR since 2015); Comtrade ch.74 USD 11.84 bn CY2025; 96% dependence for concentrates
Where Indian buyers are
Gujarat — Jamnagar, Ahmedabad, Mundra/Kandla (Kutch). Jamnagar brass-parts cluster; secondary smelters near Mundra/Kandla
Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu — Silvassa. Copper/brass rolling and wire units
Delhi NCR / Haryana — Delhi, Rewari. Copper and brass re-rollers, wire units
Maharashtra — Mumbai, Pune. Metal traders, wire and cable makers
Tamil Nadu — Chennai. Cable makers and secondary refiners
Frequently asked questions
What documents are needed to import copper scrap into India?
A pre-shipment inspection certificate from a DGFT-recognised agency, a radiation-free certificate, commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading and certificate of origin, plus any declarations required under the Hazardous & Other Wastes Rules.
Is copper scrap under a BIS QCO?
We found no BIS QCO for copper scrap; the Copper Products QCO covers finished products such as wire rod. Industry bodies have asked for scrap quality standards, so check for new notifications.
What is the import duty on copper scrap in India?
One secondary source reports that copper scrap was exempted from basic customs duty in Budget 2025-26. We have not confirmed this from the tariff, so check the ICEGATE calculator for HS 7404 before contracting.
How is copper scrap priced?
Usually as a percentage of the LME copper price (the grade ratio), fixed on an agreed date, with quality and weight checks at destination.
Which countries export copper scrap to India?
The UAE, the USA, the UK, Saudi Arabia and European hubs such as the Netherlands are the main sources.
Import routes
Source copper scrap for India
Tell us specification, volume and delivery city in India.