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 |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Policy watch
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.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import copper scrap 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 copper scrap made?
Main hubs: Los Angeles/Long Beach, New York/New Jersey, Houston, Chicago. Largest generator of ISRI-graded scrap; long transit but deep supply.
What HS code is used for importing copper scrap into India?
Usually HS 7404; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source copper scrap from United States
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.