What India buys from United Arab Emirates
India's main imports from United Arab Emirates: mineral fuels/crude & lng (US$23.47 bn), gems, gold & precious metals (US$20.93 bn), inorganic chemicals (US$4.15 bn), aircraft (US$1.95 bn), copper (US$1.28 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: 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.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import dates from United Arab Emirates to India?
Place the order with a verified United Arab Emirates 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 Arab Emirates?
India–UAE CEPA in force since 1 May 2022 — zero/reduced duty on ~97% of UAE tariff lines over time with a CEPA certificate of origin [S7][S8][06 §C.1]
Where in United Arab Emirates is dates made?
Main hubs: Al Ain, Liwa, Dubai (Jebel Ali). Largest supplier; packers and re-exporters of Gulf and Iraqi dates; very short transit to Indian west-coast ports.
What HS code is used for importing dates into India?
Usually HS 080410; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source dates from United Arab Emirates
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.