How do I export to India?
The world's most populous nation and a rapidly growing economy. A guide for navigating India's complex regulatory landscape and leveraging the growing Korean Wave.
Key Summary
India became the world's most populous country in 2023 (approximately 1.43 billion people) and is on track to become the world's third-largest economy by 2030. GDP growth of 6–7% annually makes it one of the fastest-growing major economies. Korea's exports to India in 2023 totaled approximately $7.5 billion. There is no Korea-India FTA (the CEPA negotiations are ongoing), so Korean goods are subject to India's standard MFN tariff rates, which average 10–15% for manufactured goods. India's rapidly expanding middle class (estimated 300 million), growing technology and manufacturing sectors, and strong Korean Wave popularity create significant long-term opportunities for Korean exporters.
Market Overview
India became the world's most populous country in 2023 (approximately 1.43 billion people) and is on track to become the world's third-largest economy by 2030. GDP growth of 6–7% annually makes it one of the fastest-growing major economies. Korea's exports to India in 2023 totaled approximately $7.5 billion. There is no Korea-India FTA (the CEPA negotiations are ongoing), so Korean goods are subject to India's standard MFN tariff rates, which average 10–15% for manufactured goods. India's rapidly expanding middle class (estimated 300 million), growing technology and manufacturing sectors, and strong Korean Wave popularity create significant long-term opportunities for Korean exporters.
Market Characteristics
India's market is characterized by enormous diversity—regional language differences, vast urban-rural divides, and highly varied consumer preferences across states and income levels. The top-tier cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad) account for the majority of organized retail and B2B purchasing. India's technology sector (IT services, software, semiconductors) is world-class and creates B2B demand for Korean electronics components and precision equipment. E-commerce has grown explosively (Amazon India, Flipkart, Myntra, Meesho), with 200+ million online shoppers. Korean Wave popularity is concentrated among urban youth, creating demand for K-Beauty, K-Food, and Korean lifestyle products.
Regulatory Environment
India's import regulatory environment is complex and subject to change. Food products must comply with FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) regulations and require FSSAI registration or licensing. Cosmetics are classified as drugs under India's Drugs and Cosmetics Act and require registration with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). Electronics and electrical products must obtain BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification through the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). Medical devices require CDSCO registration, with India's classification system aligned with global standards. All products require labeling in English, with pricing in Indian Rupees.
Business Culture
Indian business culture is diverse across regions and industries. Generally, building personal relationships is important, and multi-stakeholder decision-making processes mean that deals take time. English is widely used in business, particularly in technology and services sectors. Hierarchy is important—ensuring the right level of seniority in meetings is essential. Indian business people are skilled negotiators and will push for competitive pricing. Price negotiations can be protracted. Understanding that 'yes' sometimes means 'I heard you' rather than agreement is important. Patience and long-term relationship commitment are key success factors.
Buyer Discovery
Key trade shows in India include India International Trade Fair (Delhi), Auto Expo (Delhi/Mumbai), India Beauty & Hygiene Association events, and Cosmoprof India. KOTRA's Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore trade offices provide buyer-matching and market research. India's large Korean diaspora community (especially in IT hubs like Bangalore and Chennai) can be a network entry point. For technology and industrial goods, LinkedIn outreach to Indian procurement managers is effective. For consumer goods, platforms such as Amazon India and Flipkart allow testing market demand with lower risk.
Customs & Logistics
India's main ports are Mumbai (JNPT—Jawaharlal Nehru Port), Chennai, and Nhava Sheva. Shipping from Busan to Mumbai takes approximately 15–20 days. India's customs clearance is handled through the ICEGATE electronic system. Import duties range from 0–150% (highly protected sectors), with most manufactured goods at 10–20%. GST (5–28% depending on product) is applied in addition to customs duties. India's logistics infrastructure has been improving significantly with the Goods and Services Tax (GST) unification, but clearing customs can take 5–10 days.
Pricing & Payment
T/T (wire transfer) in USD is the most common payment method for B2B transactions. Indian buyers are price-sensitive and negotiate aggressively. The high import duty structure means Korean products often carry significant price premiums over domestic alternatives, making price competitiveness a key challenge. L/C is used for larger transactions. Trade credit insurance through K-SURE is advisable given the complexity of debt recovery in India. Indian Rupee (INR) contracts are less common for international trade; USD is standard.
Marketing & Localization
India's digital media landscape is massive—YouTube (India's most popular platform), Instagram, Facebook, and the Indian-origin ShareChat are key platforms. English-language marketing works for urban consumers, but Hindi and regional language content dramatically expands reach. Korean Wave is popular primarily in youth demographics in urban areas, and K-Beauty tutorials and Korean food recipes perform well on YouTube and Instagram. For B2B marketing in industrial sectors, LinkedIn and technical publications are effective. India's diversity means that regional marketing customization (language, cultural references) is important for nationwide reach.
FTA & Tariffs
There is currently no Korea-India FTA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement negotiations have been suspended). Korean goods are subject to India's MFN tariff rates, which average 10–15% for industrial goods and can be significantly higher for consumer goods and agricultural products. The absence of an FTA is a significant competitive disadvantage compared to ASEAN suppliers (covered by ASEAN-India FTA) and countries with bilateral agreements with India. Korea-India CEPA negotiations have been discussed and may resume. In the meantime, price competitiveness through quality differentiation and technology advantage is the primary strategy.
Business Culture
Buyer Types
Technology / Electronics Distributors
Indian distributors of electronics components, industrial machinery, and technology products serving India's growing manufacturing and technology sectors. They require competitive pricing, BIS certification, and reliable supply. India's 'Make in India' initiative is driving demand for Korean components and machinery.
K-Beauty Importers
Indian importers and distributors of Korean beauty products, concentrated in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. CDSCO drug registration (for cosmetics classified as drugs) is required. Growing demand driven by Korean Wave popularity among urban Indian youth. Amazon India and Nykaa are key retail channels.
Industrial Parts / Manufacturing Buyers
India's automotive, electronics, and industrial manufacturers sourcing Korean precision parts, materials, and equipment. Hyundai and Kia's significant India manufacturing presence creates supply chain opportunities for Korean SMEs. Quality certifications and competitive pricing are key criteria.
Food / Health Product Importers
Importers of Korean food products (instant noodles, sauces, snacks, health supplements) targeting India's growing K-food fan base and Korean expat community. FSSAI compliance is mandatory. The market is price-sensitive but growing rapidly among urban youth influenced by K-pop and K-drama.
Logistics Information
Lead Time
Sea: 15–20 days (Busan–Mumbai), Air: 2–3 days
Est. Shipping Cost
Sea: $1,300–2,400/20ft, Air: $4–8/kg
Payment Methods
FTA/Trade Agreements
Frequently Asked Questions
A. All food products imported into India must comply with FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) regulations. This requires a Central FSSAI Import License held by the Indian importer. Products must comply with India's food standards for composition, labeling, and additives. Labels must be in English and include all required information: product name, ingredients, net weight, country of origin, importer name/address, and FSSAI license number. Additives and ingredients must be permitted under FSSAI regulations—Korean food products sometimes contain additives that require verification. A FSSAI-registered importer must be designated before shipping.
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