Indian import policy
As of 2026-11: pistachios are 'Free' to import with FSSAI Central licence, FICS clearance and a phytosanitary certificate. Duty: check ICEGATE for HS 0802.51/0802.52 (rate not verified this session). Iran-origin trade is not prohibited by India, but US sanctions restrict banking and shipping channels — conduct sanctions screening and use only compliant payment routes. Sources: https://fics.fssai.gov.in; https://www.marinelink.com/news/uae-trade-pause-us-sanctions-threaten-542383; research/02-indian-imports.md.
Check the current DGFT, BIS and CBIC notifications before contracting.
Importing pistachios 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 |
| Import clearance NOC | FSSAI | FICS NOC after Bill of Entry; FSSAI Central licence |
| 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
Almonds > USD 1 bn (~CY2024, 93% USA); 190,000 t MY2024/25 forecast; pistachios 40,000 t; walnuts 70,000 t (USDA via press); USA ch.08 exports to India USD 1.37 bn CY2025
Where Indian buyers are
Delhi — Delhi (Khari Baoli), Narela. India's largest dry-fruit wholesale market; in-shell cracking and grading units
Maharashtra — Mumbai (Vashi APMC), Pune. West-India wholesale, modern trade and D2C brands
Punjab — Amritsar. Historic dry-fruit trading centre
Gujarat — Ahmedabad, Surat. Wholesale and festive gifting demand
Karnataka / Tamil Nadu — Bengaluru, Chennai. Snack brands, confectionery and modern trade
Frequently asked questions
Can I import pistachios from Iran into India?
India does not prohibit Iranian pistachios, but US sanctions restrict the banking and shipping channels used to pay for them, and trade has fallen sharply in 2026. Use only established, compliant payment routes and screen all counterparties.
Which countries supply most pistachios to India?
The USA supplies about 84% of India's imports; Iran and Turkey are the other main sources.
What approvals are needed to import pistachios?
An FSSAI Central licence, FSSAI clearance on FICS per consignment, a phytosanitary certificate and compliant retail labels.
What pistachio grades suit Indian sweet makers?
Bright-green kernels, often Turkish Antep or specially graded US kernels, are preferred for mithai, kulfi and ice cream.
Import routes
Source pistachios for India
Tell us specification, volume and delivery city in India.