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 |
| Compulsory Registration Scheme | BIS | CRS registration (Scheme-II) per model/factory |
| Import permit before shipment | DPPQS (Plant Quarantine) | Import permit PQ-01/PQ-02; PSC with additional declarations |
| Equipment Type Approval | DoT WPC via SARAL Sanchar | ETA self-declaration + import undertaking |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Policy watch
As of 2026-11: analytical instruments are 'Free' under ITC(HS) with no BIS QCO (research file). In-vitro diagnostic analysers and reagents are regulated by CDSCO as medical devices/IVDs. X-ray-based analysers (XRD/XRF) may need AERB approval (ASSUMPTION — confirm). Wireless-enabled instruments need WPC ETA. Sources: research/02-indian-imports.md; https://cdscoonline.gov.in.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import laboratory & analytical instruments 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 laboratory & analytical instruments made?
Main hubs: Shanghai, Hangzhou, Beijing. Lower-cost general lab equipment, UV-Vis, centrifuges, incubators and consumables.
What HS code is used for importing laboratory & analytical instruments into India?
Usually HS 9027; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source laboratory & analytical instruments from China
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.