What India buys from China
India's main imports from China: electrical/electronic equipment (US$56.98 bn), machinery (US$31.51 bn), organic chemicals/apis (US$11.51 bn), plastics (US$6.83 bn), precious metals/diamonds (US$5.14 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 |
| Mandatory BIS certification | BIS / DPIIT & line ministries | BIS licence (ISI, FMCS for foreign plants) or CRS registration |
| Cosmetic import registration | CDSCO | COS-1 application / COS-2 registration |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Policy watch
As of 2026-11: cosmetic ingredients are not themselves registered with CDSCO (registration under the Cosmetics Rules 2020 applies to finished imported cosmetics), but they must be permitted for cosmetic use under Indian standards (BIS IS 4707 lists colourants and prohibited/restricted substances — ASSUMPTION, confirm). Some ingredients are covered by chemical QCOs or MSIHC rules; check per CAS number. India bans animal testing of cosmetics. Sources: https://cdscoonline.gov.in; https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/products-under-compulsory-certification/; research/06-compliance-logistics.md.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import cosmetic ingredients from China to India?
Place the order with a verified China 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 China?
No FTA. Both are in the Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) — limited tariff concessions; India restricts FDI (Press Note 3) and applies many QCOs/anti-dumping duties [S7 — not mentioned; S9]
Where in China is cosmetic ingredients made?
Main hubs: Shanghai, Hangzhou, Jinan (Shandong). Large-volume actives such as hyaluronic acid, vitamins and derivatives at competitive prices.
What HS code is used for importing cosmetic ingredients into India?
Usually HS 3824; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source cosmetic ingredients from China
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.