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 |
| 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 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 laboratory & analytical instruments made?
Main hubs: Boston area (Massachusetts), San Francisco Bay Area, Waltham. Largest single source of high-end analytical instruments (chromatography, mass spectrometry, life-science tools).
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 United States
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.