What India buys from France
India's main imports from France: aircraft (US$2.75 bn), machinery (US$1.29 bn), electrical equipment (US$0.71 bn), optical/medical instruments (US$0.36 bn), plastics (US$0.27 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 |
| Import clearance NOC | FSSAI | FICS NOC after Bill of Entry; FSSAI Central licence |
| 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: food flavours need an FSSAI Central licence and FICS clearance per consignment and must comply with FSSAI's food-additive and flavouring standards and labelling. Fragrance compounds for cosmetics are raw materials (finished cosmetics need CDSCO registration); flammable compounds ship as dangerous goods and fall under the MSIHC Rules. Duty: verify on ICEGATE (not checked this session). Sources: https://fics.fssai.gov.in; https://cdscoonline.gov.in; research/06-compliance-logistics.md.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import flavour & fragrance compounds from France to India?
Place the order with a verified France 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 France?
EU competence — India–EU FTA concluded 27 Jan 2026, not yet in force [S7][S8]; India graduated from EU GSP for 2026–2028 (Reg. (EU) 2025/1909) so MFN duties apply until the FTA enters into force (expected 2027) [06 §C.4]
Where in France is flavour & fragrance compounds made?
Main hubs: Grasse, Paris, Lyon. Grasse is the historic perfumery centre; fragrance compounds and natural extracts.
What HS code is used for importing flavour & fragrance compounds into India?
Usually HS 3302; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source flavour & fragrance compounds from France
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.