What India buys from Switzerland
India's main imports from Switzerland: gold & precious metals (15.37 — dominates), machinery (US$0.51 bn), optical/medical instruments (US$0.42 bn), watches (US$0.38 bn), electrical equipment (US$0.26 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 |
| Duty deferment | CBIC (Customs Act s.65) | MOOWR bonded warehouse licence |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Policy watch
As of 2026-11: textile machinery is 'Free' under ITC(HS) with no BIS QCO (research file). Second-hand machinery needs a chartered-engineer certificate under DGFT rules. The machinery safety Omnibus Technical Regulation was reported repealed on 14 Jan 2026 (single source — confirm). Sources: research/02-indian-imports.md; https://www.dgft.gov.in/CP/?opt=itchs-import-export; https://www.ice.it/it/sites/default/files/inline-files/Gennaio%202026%20-%20Flash%20News.pdf.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import textile machinery & spares from Switzerland to India?
Place the order with a verified Switzerland 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 Switzerland?
India–EFTA TEPA in force 1 Oct 2025 — Switzerland eliminates duties on most industrial goods; India phases cuts on Swiss watches/chocolate/machinery over 7–10 years [S7][S8]
Where in Switzerland is textile machinery & spares made?
Main hubs: Winterthur. Spinning systems and precision spinning components.
What HS code is used for importing textile machinery & spares into India?
Usually HS 8446; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source textile machinery & spares from Switzerland
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.