Indian import policy
As of 2026-11: dates are 'Free' to import; the importer needs an FSSAI Central licence and an FSSAI NOC through FICS for each consignment, and retail packs must meet FSS labelling and Legal Metrology rules. A phytosanitary certificate from the origin is required, and plant-quarantine clearance applies under the PQ Order 2003 (confirm import-permit requirement for your form). Check the duty for your origin on ICEGATE; any FTA preference needs a valid certificate of origin. Sources: https://fics.fssai.gov.in; https://ppqs.gov.in; research/06-compliance-logistics.md.
Check the current DGFT, BIS and CBIC notifications before contracting.
Importing dates 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 |
| 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 |
Import trend
Comtrade-derived (ximpex) USD 937 mn CY2024 (CY2023 USD 860 mn); FY value unavailable
Where Indian buyers are
Maharashtra — Mumbai (Vashi APMC), Pune. Largest port-linked wholesale market and modern-trade buyers
Gujarat — Ahmedabad, Mundra/Kandla (Kutch). West-coast port of entry; wholesale and ingredient buyers
Delhi — Delhi (Khari Baoli). North-India dry-fruit wholesale hub
Kerala — Kozhikode, Kochi. Strong Gulf-linked consumption and Ramadan demand
Uttar Pradesh / Telangana — Lucknow, Hyderabad. Large Ramadan and festive consumption centres
Frequently asked questions
What is required to import dates into India?
An IEC, an FSSAI Central licence, FSSAI clearance on FICS for each consignment, a phytosanitary certificate from the origin country, and FSSAI and Legal Metrology-compliant labels on retail packs.
Which countries supply most dates to India?
The UAE and Iraq are the largest suppliers, followed by Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Iran, Egypt and Oman.
Do soft dates need refrigerated containers?
Soft, high-moisture varieties are usually shipped in reefers at around 0–5 °C to prevent fermentation and insects; semi-dry varieties can ship ambient.
Can dates be packed at origin under an Indian brand?
Yes. GCC packers can pack retail boxes with your brand, provided the labels carry the Indian importer's details, FSSAI logo and licence number, and Legal Metrology declarations.
When is peak demand for dates in India?
Around Ramadan and during the festive and wedding season, when dates are bought for gifting and religious observance.
Import routes
Source dates for India
Tell us specification, volume and delivery city in India.