How to Import from China to India: Duties, BIS Certification and Ports
The landed cost of a Chinese import in India is typically 25–40% higher than the FOB price. Here's exactly what those costs are, which categories need BIS registration, and the fastest port routes from Guangdong to India.
Incoterms: what FOB means for you
FOB (Free On Board) means the supplier is responsible for the goods until they are loaded onto the vessel at the Chinese port. Everything after that — ocean freight, insurance, destination port charges, customs, last-mile — is your cost. Always ask for FOB pricing from suppliers; CIF (Cost Insurance Freight) adds shipping that you can often get cheaper yourself through a freight forwarder.
Typical landed cost formula
FOB price + sea freight (8–12%) + basic customs duty (10–28%) + IGST (12% on duty-inclusive value) + CHA + port handling ≈ FOB × 1.30–1.45
Customs duty by category
| Category | Basic Customs Duty | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skincare & cosmetics | 20–28% | CDSCO registration also required |
| Apparel & textiles | 20% | Rules of origin matters for GSP benefits |
| Kids furniture | 20–25% | BIS certification directionally expanding |
| Electronics & accessories | 10–20% | BIS mandatory for many categories |
| Sports & fitness equipment | 10–15% | Generally simpler to import |
| Pet products | 10–20% | Food items need FSSAI/PQ clearance |
| Toys | 20% | BIS IS 9873 mandatory for most toys |
Rates above are indicative — the exact HS code for your product determines the duty rate. A customs house agent (CHA) will classify your product. Always confirm the HS code with your CHA before placing a first order so there are no surprises at the port.
BIS mandatory certification list
BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) mandatory certification applies to 100+ product categories. Key ones for D2C founders:
Toys
IS 9873
All toys for children under 14. Applies to imports and domestic manufacture.
Electronics (cables, chargers, adaptors)
IS 13252 / IS 616
Managed under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). Register before importing.
Helmets
IS 4151
Any protective headgear. Strict enforcement at ports.
LED lights & bulbs
IS 16102
Under CRS. Common in home décor and electronics categories.
Pressure cookers
IS 2347
Kitchen category founders — mandatory, no exceptions.
Port routes from China to India
| Route | Transit time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou/Shenzhen → Nhava Sheva (Mumbai) | 18–22 days | West India, pan-India D2C |
| Guangzhou → Chennai | 18–20 days | South India, Chennai 3PL hubs |
| Guangzhou → Mundra | 20–25 days | Gujarat, North/West India retail |
| Guangzhou → Kolkata | 22–26 days | East India, Bangladesh-adjacent supply chains |
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