Clothes Import Duty & Landed Cost: China to India
Full 2026 tariff breakdown, customs duty calculations, and compliance alerts for importing into India.
2026 Tariff & Cost Breakdown for Importing Clothes
Importing clothes from China to India incurs a 16.5% duty and 12% VAT on the CIF value in USD. The total cost includes the CIF value plus duty and VAT, making it essential for importers to calculate the landed cost accurately.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Product Value | — | EUR 344.00 |
| Shipping | — | EUR 0.00 |
| Insurance | — | EUR 0.00 |
| CIF Value | — | EUR 344.00 |
| Customs Duty | 16.5% | EUR 56.76 |
| VAT/GST | 12% | EUR 48.09 |
| Total Landed Cost | — | EUR 448.85 |
HS Code Classification for Clothes
Primary HS Code: 6201.000000 — What It Covers
The HS Code 6201.000000 covers specific types of clothes, and importers must ensure accurate classification to avoid misdeclaration.
Why Misclassification Carries Risk in India
Misclassification of clothes can lead to penalties and delays, as the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs strictly enforces correct HS code usage.
Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Clothes from China to India
Step 1: Verify Your HS Code & Product Description
Importers must verify the HS code and product description to ensure accuracy and compliance with Indian customs regulations.
Step 2: Gather Required Import Documents
Required documents include a commercial invoice, certificate of origin, and packing list, which must be submitted to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs.
Commercial Invoice Requirements
A commercial invoice must include the HS code, product description, and value in USD.
Certificate of Origin
A certificate of origin is required to verify the country of origin, which is China in this case.
Packing List & Shipping Documents
A packing list and shipping documents must be submitted to facilitate smooth customs clearance.
Step 3: Calculate Your Landed Cost
The landed cost is calculated as CIF + Duty (16.5%) + VAT (12%) in USD, providing the total cost of importing clothes from China to India.
Step 4: Submit to India Customs Authority
Importers must submit all required documents to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs for customs clearance.
Step 5: Pay Duties & Clear Goods
After customs clearance, importers must pay the applicable duties and clear the clothes from the port of entry.
How to Legally Reduce Duty on Clothes Imports into India
Applicable Free Trade Agreements in 2026
There is no bilateral Free Trade Agreement between China and India that applies to clothes imports.
Duty Deferral Options: Bonded Warehouses & FTZs
Importers can consider using Special Economic Zone (SEZ) programs or bonded warehouses to defer duty payments.
Preferential Tariff Programs
No preferential tariff programs apply to clothes imports from China to India.
India Customs Compliance Rules for Clothes
Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs Requirements for Clothes
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs requires importers to comply with labeling requirements, including the ISI mark and BIS certification, and to label clothes with the name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or importer.
De Minimis Threshold
The de minimis threshold is 0 USD, meaning all imports are subject to duty and tax.
Anti-Dumping or Safeguard Duties
Anti-dumping duties may apply to clothes imported from China, and importers should verify with their customs broker for specific details.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clothes Import Duty from China to India
What is the duty rate for clothes imported from China to India?
The duty rate for clothes imported from China to India is 16.5%. The VAT/GST rate is 12%.
Are there any free trade agreements between China and India for clothes imports?
There is no bilateral Free Trade Agreement between China and India that applies to clothes imports.
What certifications are required for clothes imports into India?
Importers must obtain the ISI mark and BIS certification for clothes imports into India.
What is the de minimis threshold for clothes imports into India?
The de minimis threshold is 0 USD, meaning all imports are subject to duty and tax.
Can I use a bonded warehouse to defer duty payments for clothes imports?
Yes, importers can consider using Special Economic Zone (SEZ) programs or bonded warehouses to defer duty payments for clothes imports.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with customs regulations for clothes imports?
Non-compliance with customs regulations can result in a fine of up to 5 times the amount of duty, or imprisonment for up to 7 years, or both, under the Customs Act, 1962.