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What You Need to Start Importing from China to India (Without Getting Scammed) 1

What You Need to Start Importing from China to India (Without Getting Scammed)

August 15, 2025

Authoritative, Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Importers in 2025

Why Import from China?

China remains the world’s leading manufacturing hub offering low-cost, high-quality products in every imaginable category. Whether you’re a small business owner, dropshipper, or a first-time entrepreneur, importing from China to India can be incredibly profitable if done right.

But with opportunity comes risk.

From fake suppliers to unclear regulations, importing can be a legal and financial minefield if you’re unprepared. This guide will give you a safe, step-by-step roadmap to start importing from China without getting scammed, especially if you’re based in India.

✅ Step 1: Define What You Want to Import

Before anything else:

  • Choose a specific product you want to import.
  • Ensure there’s local demand and margin potential.
  • Check if it’s legally allowed in India. Some items (e.g. cosmetics, electronics, drones, food products) require additional certifications like FSSAI, WPC, or BIS.

Pro Tip: Start small. Choose products that are lightweight, unbranded, and non-perishable.

✅ Step 2: Get Your Legal Basics in Place (India-Specific)

To import legally into India, you must register with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and obtain:

Key Requirements:

  • IEC Code (Import Export Code) – Which is Mandatory for customs clearance.
  • GST Registration – For tax compliance and billing.
  • PAN Card – Personal or business, depending on your registration type.
  • Current Account – A business specific bank account is preferred.

⏱️ Time to get IEC: Usually 7–15 working days
You can apply directly at: https://www.dgft.gov.in

Do You Need a License to Import from China to India?

One of the most frequently asked questions by new importers is: “Do I need a license to import from China to India?” The short answer is: Yes, but not always in the way you think.

For most non-restricted products, all you need is an IEC (Import Export Code) from the DGFT, which is your legal permit to bring goods into the country. However, if you’re importing items like food, electronics, cosmetics, or medical equipment, you may need additional regulatory approvals like:

  • FSSAI license (for food or supplements)
  • WPC approval (for wireless electronics)
  • BIS certification (for electrical items)

By ensuring you meet these import licensing requirements in India, you protect your shipment from being stuck at customs or facing fines and legal action.

✅ Step 3: Choose the Right Supplier (Without Getting Burned)

You have 3 options:

Option Platforms
Direct Sourcing Alibaba, Made-in-China, Global Sources
Domestic China Platforms (cheaper) 1688.com (requires an agent)
Verified Sourcing Agents By doing some online research

️ Supplier Red Flags (Avoid These):

  • Unusually low prices (“too good to be true”)
  • No verifiable address or phone number
  • Refuses to accept secure payment methods
  • Poor grammar or generic email communication
  • No factory videos or product certification

Pro Tip: Always ask for:

  • Business license
  • Past customer references
  • Product samples
  • Quality certificates (CE, ISO, etc.)

Want to know How to Find Suppliers(verified) from China for Indian Businesses

If you’re specifically looking to import to India, it’s crucial to partner with Chinese suppliers who are familiar with Indian regulations and documentation. Here’s what to look for in a verified supplier:

  • They provide GST-compliant invoices
  • They have experience shipping to India (and can provide BOLs or shipment proofs)
  • They understand customs documentation: Packing List, Commercial Invoice, COO (Certificate of Origin), etc.

For better results, use platforms like Alibaba or Global Sources where you can filter by Verified Suppliers, and don’t hesitate to request a video factory tour or a real-time video call.

Searching for terms like “trusted Chinese supplier for Indian importers” or “BIS-compliant suppliers in China” can lead you to niche manufacturers already working with Indian businesses.

✅ Step 4: Understand Shipping Terms & Costs

Before you place an order, agree on Incoterms (international shipping terms). The most common ones:

Term Who Handles What
FOB (Free on Board) Supplier covers local shipping, you handle ocean freight onwards
CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) Supplier delivers to Indian port; you handle customs
EXW (Ex Works) You handle everything from the factory door onwards

Also consider:

  • Freight Forwarder or Customs Broker – Essential for smooth clearance.
  • Insurance – Protects against cargo damage or loss.

✅ Step 5: Calculate the Total Landed Cost

Many importers underestimate this. Your landed cost =

[Product Cost] + [Shipping] + [Customs Duty] + [GST] + [Clearance Fees]

Duty Example (India):

  • Basic Customs Duty (BCD): ~10%
  • Social Welfare Surcharge: ~10% of BCD
  • IGST: Varies by product (typically 12–18%)
  • Handling/port charges: Miscellaneous

Using this you can determine your profit margin before placing any bulk order.

✅ Step 6: Inspect the Goods Before Shipping

This is where many beginners make costly mistakes.

Always hire a third-party inspection service:

  • Pre-shipment inspection (PSI)
  • During-production check (DUPRO)
  • Factory audit (for repeat suppliers)

Trusted Inspection Companies:

Is It Safe to Import Products from China to India in 2025?

With rising concerns about product safety, customs seizures, and trade regulations, many importers ask: “Is it safe to import products from China to India in 2025?”

The response is: Yes, only if you take proper precautions. The Indian government has tightened import regulations, especially for electronic goods, apparels , and personal care products. However, as long as you:

  • Import from genuine, verified suppliers
  • Use proper shipping and customs documentation
  • Conduct pre-shipment inspections

… then importing from China remains safe, legal, and profitable.

Thousands of Indian entrepreneurs still import goods from China every month especially mobile accessories, kitchen tools, garments, and LED lighting and succeed with the right structure in place.

✅ Step 7: Make Payment Safely

Stick to secure payment methods:

Safe Method Notes
Alibaba Trade Assurance Dispute resolution & protection
PayPal Good for small sample orders
Letter of Credit (LC) For large-scale orders
Wise / T/T (for trusted suppliers) Use only after verifying reputation

Avoid:

  • Western Union
  • Cryptocurrency (unless mutually agreed with a proven supplier)

Top Trending Products to Import from China to India in 2025

If you’re unsure where to start, here are some of the most imported products from China to India right now (based on customs data and sourcing trends):

  • LED lights and accessories
  • Mobile phone cases and chargers
  • Kitchenware and small home appliances
  • Beauty tools and unbranded cosmetics
  • Fitness and wellness gear
  • Packaging materials and containers

These products are popular because they:

  • Have low landed cost
  • Face minimal regulatory barriers
  • Offer high resale margins

By aligning your product selection with market trends, you increase your chances of running a profitable import business from day one.

FAQ’s

1. Do I need a license to import from China to India?

Yes, you need an Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT to legally import into India. For certain categories like electronics, cosmetics, food, or wireless products, additional licenses like BIS, FSSAI, or WPC approval may be required.

2. What are the best websites to find Chinese suppliers?

The most trusted platforms for finding Chinese suppliers include Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources. For cheaper prices (with language support required), you can use 1688.com via a sourcing agent.

3. How much customs duty is applied when importing from China to India?

The customs duty varies depending on the product but typically includes: Basic Customs Duty (~10%), IGST (12–18%), and Social Welfare Surcharge (~10% of BCD). Use ICEGATE or consult a customs broker for accurate rates.

4. How can I avoid getting scammed by a Chinese supplier?

To avoid scams: work with verified suppliers, ask for business licenses, avoid full upfront payments, use secure methods like Alibaba Trade Assurance, and request product samples or use third-party inspections before shipping.

5. What are the cheapest and most profitable items to import from China?

Popular and profitable imports include: LED lights, mobile accessories, kitchen gadgets, packaging items, and beauty tools. They are lightweight, low-duty, and high in demand in India’s e-commerce and retail market.

6. Is importing from China to India legal in 2025?

Yes, importing from China to India is legal in 2025, but you must comply with Indian trade regulations, get the proper licenses, and ensure your products don’t fall under banned or restricted categories.

7. What is the best way to pay Chinese suppliers safely?

Safe payment methods include: Alibaba Trade Assurance, PayPal (for samples), Letter of Credit (LC) for large orders, or Wire Transfer (T/T) with trusted suppliers. Avoid risky methods like Western Union or crypto.

8. Can I import from China without a company in India?

Yes, individuals can import from China into India, but you still need an IEC Code linked to your personal PAN, and must follow all legal and GST compliance steps. However, it’s more efficient to register as a sole proprietor or business.

9. Do I need a sourcing agent to import from China?

A sourcing agent is not mandatory, but highly recommended  especially for 1688.com, quality checks, factory visits, or managing logistics. They simplify the process and reduce risks for first-time importers.

10. What are the biggest mistakes importers make when sourcing from China?

Common mistakes include: not verifying suppliers, underestimating customs duties, paying 100% upfront, skipping pre-shipment inspections, and not understanding Incoterms like FOB/CIF. Avoiding these will save you money and trouble.

Final Thoughts

Importing from China to India can be a lucrative business if you follow the right steps and work with trusted partners. Research your suppliers thoroughly, understand Indian import regulations, calculate landed costs carefully, and inspect your goods before shipping.

Above all, remember: due diligence is your best defense against scams. The more you prepare and verify upfront, the smoother your importing journey will be.

If you want a hassle-free experience, consider working with professional sourcing agents who specialize in China-to-India imports they can save you time, money, and headaches.

Good luck and happy importing!

Published on: August 15, 2025

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