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 |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Policy watch
As of 2026-11: check each chemical separately. India withdrew 14 QCOs on chemicals/polymers effective 12 Nov 2025, but other chemical QCOs remain in force (BIS licence for the foreign plant). DGTR runs frequent anti-dumping cases on chemicals (e.g. initiations on sodium cyanide, insoluble sulphur and DCC in Sep 2026). Hazardous chemicals fall under the MSIHC Rules and need DG handling. Sources: https://chemical.chemlinked.com/news/chemical-news/india-rescinds-quality-control-orders; http://www.dgtr.gov.in/en; research/02-indian-imports.md.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import specialty chemicals & additives 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 specialty chemicals & additives made?
Main hubs: Shanghai, Ningbo, Nanjing, Zibo. Largest-volume source with growing specialty capability; highest ADD exposure in India.
What HS code is used for importing specialty chemicals & additives into India?
Usually HS 3824; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source specialty chemicals & additives from China
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.