Indian import policy
As of 2026-11: lithium-ion cells and batteries require BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) registration (IS 16046 series for portable types) for the exact model and factory before import; EV traction batteries must satisfy AIS-156 through vehicle homologation, and traction cells are tested to IS 16893 (confirm). No DGTR anti-dumping duty on Li-ion cells was found in this session's search. Customs notification 27/2026-Customs amended concessions on capital goods for Li-ion cell manufacture (not on cells). Sources: research/02-indian-imports.md; https://www.crsbis.in/BIS/; http://www.dgtr.gov.in/en (status: CRS requirement VERIFIED in research; standard numbers ASSUMPTION).
Check the current DGFT, BIS and CBIC notifications before contracting.
Importing lithium-ion cells & battery packs into India: 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 |
| 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 |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Import trend
HS 85076000 imports Rs 25,459 cr FY25 (+4.6%); Rs 41,667 cr FY26 (+64%, trade press); USD value not found
Where Indian buyers are
Tamil Nadu — Hosur, Krishnagiri, Chennai. Electric two-wheeler OEMs and pack assemblers
Karnataka — Bengaluru. EV start-ups, BMS designers and pack makers
Maharashtra — Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad). EV OEMs, three-wheelers, energy-storage integrators
Haryana — Gurugram, Manesar. Two-wheeler OEMs and component suppliers
Delhi NCR / Uttar Pradesh — Delhi, Noida. E-rickshaw battery assemblers and telecom-backup integrators
Frequently asked questions
What BIS certification is needed to import lithium-ion cells into India?
Li-ion cells and batteries are under BIS's Compulsory Registration Scheme; the overseas factory must hold a CRS registration for the exact model, tested at a BIS-recognised lab. Customs checks the registration at clearance.
Is there an anti-dumping duty on lithium-ion cells from China?
We found no DGTR anti-dumping duty on Li-ion cells as of November 2026. Trade remedies change quickly, so check DGTR notices and the ICEGATE duty calculator before contracting.
Do EV battery packs need separate approval?
Yes. Packs used in Indian EVs must meet AIS-156 (battery safety) as part of vehicle type-approval by agencies such as ARAI or ICAT, in addition to cell-level requirements.
How are lithium-ion cells shipped to India?
As Class 9 dangerous goods (UN3480) with a UN38.3 test summary, SDS and DG declaration, in UN-specification packaging with DG-accepting carriers.
Which countries supply lithium-ion cells to India?
China supplies about three-quarters; South Korea and Japan are the main alternatives, especially for NMC cells.
Import routes
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