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: a minimum import price of ₹67,220/t applies to multi-layer paperboard (HS 4810 lines), an anti-dumping probe on Indonesian paperboard is under way, and a décor-paper ADD hearing (China) was held in Nov 2026 (research file). DGFT's Paper Import Monitoring System (PIMS) has required importer registration for many chapter-48 lines since 2022 — confirm whether it still applies to your HS code (ASSUMPTION). Pulp (4703) has no such measures to our knowledge. Sources: research/02-indian-imports.md; https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/business/2025/05/30/dcm19-biz-paper-imports.html; http://www.dgtr.gov.in/en.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import kraft paper, kraftliner & wood pulp 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 kraft paper, kraftliner & wood pulp made?
Main hubs: Savannah (port), Charleston (port), Seattle/Tacoma (ports). Large supplier of virgin kraftliner, sack kraft and softwood/fluff pulp from the US South and Pacific Northwest.
What HS code is used for importing kraft paper, kraftliner & wood pulp into India?
Usually HS 4804; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source kraft paper, kraftliner & wood pulp from United States
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.