What India buys from United States
India's main imports from United States: mineral fuels/crude & lng (US$15.39 bn), machinery (US$7.25 bn), gems/precious metals (US$2.98 bn), optical/medical instruments (US$2.51 bn), electrical equipment (US$2.41 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 |
| 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 |
Policy watch
As of 2026-11: timber and logs need a plant-quarantine import permit before shipment and a phytosanitary certificate endorsed with approved treatment (debarking, methyl bromide or alternatives) under the PQ Order 2003, with entry only through notified ports. CITES permits apply to listed species; sandalwood and red sanders are restricted. Plywood and MDF are under BIS QCOs (research file). Sources: https://ppqs.gov.in; research/02-indian-imports.md; https://www.dgft.gov.in/CP/?opt=itchs-import-export.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import timber: logs & sawn wood from United States to India?
Place the order with a verified United States 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 United States?
No FTA; BTA under negotiation (talks 1–4 Jun 2026) [S7]. Tariff on Indian goods as of 22 Oct 2026: MFN + 10% Section 301 (from 24 Jul 2026), or the Section 232 rate for steel/aluminium/autos/copper; IEEPA tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court 20 Feb 2026 — verify weekly [06 §C.3]
Where in United States is timber: logs & sawn wood made?
Main hubs: Norfolk (port), Baltimore (port), Savannah (port). Hardwood lumber and logs (oak, ash, walnut, poplar) for furniture and interiors.
What HS code is used for importing timber: logs & sawn wood into India?
Usually HS 4403; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source timber: logs & sawn wood from United States
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.