Indian import policy
As of 2026-11: packaging machines are 'Free' under ITC(HS) and have no specific BIS QCO (research file). The machinery safety Omnibus Technical Regulation that was scheduled from 1 Sep 2026 was reported repealed on 14 Jan 2026 (single secondary source — confirm). Wooden packing must be ISPM-15 treated. Sources: research/02-indian-imports.md; https://www.ice.it/it/sites/default/files/inline-files/Gennaio%202026%20-%20Flash%20News.pdf.
Check the current DGFT, BIS and CBIC notifications before contracting.
Importing packaging machinery 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 |
| Duty deferment | CBIC (Customs Act s.65) | MOOWR bonded warehouse licence |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Import trend
FY total unavailable; German exports to India EUR 176.9 mn 2024 (packmedia)
Where Indian buyers are
Maharashtra — Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur. FMCG, dairy and pharma plants; contract packers
Gujarat — Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot. Pharma, snacks, spices and dairy
Himachal Pradesh — Baddi. Pharmaceutical formulation cluster
Telangana — Hyderabad. Pharma and food processing
Uttarakhand / Uttar Pradesh — Haridwar, Rudrapur, Noida. FMCG and personal-care plants
Frequently asked questions
Is BIS certification required to import packaging machinery into India?
Packaging machines have no specific BIS QCO. The machinery safety Omnibus Technical Regulation was reported repealed in January 2026; confirm the current position before shipping.
Which countries make the best packaging machinery for India?
Italy and Germany lead in pharma and high-speed food lines, while China and Taiwan supply lower-cost machines. The choice depends on speed, format flexibility and the service support available locally.
What should a factory acceptance test include?
Running your actual product and packaging film at rated speed, checking fill accuracy, seal integrity and changeover time, and recording results in a signed FAT report.
Do pharma packaging machines need special documentation?
Pharma buyers usually require cGMP design documents, material certificates for contact parts and IQ/OQ qualification protocols.
What HS code applies to packaging machinery?
HS 8422, mainly 8422.30 for filling, sealing and capping and 8422.40 for other packing or wrapping machines.
Import routes
Source packaging machinery for India
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