How to Import Food Products to India: FSSAI & Customs Complete Guide

India imports food products worth billions of dollars annually — from exotic fruits and premium chocolates to functional beverages and specialty ingredients. But food imports are one of the most heavily regulated categories in Indian trade. Every step — from obtaining licenses to clearing customs — requires strict FSSAI compliance.

Step 1: Obtain FSSAI Central License (Importer Category)

Before importing any food product, you must hold a valid FSSAI Central License with "Importer" as your Kind of Business. There are no exceptions — even for one-time or small-volume imports.

• Apply on FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in)
• Government fee: ₹7,500/year
• Timeline: 30–60 working days
• Required documents: IEC, company registration, warehouse address, product list

Step 2: Get Importer Exporter Code (IEC)

IEC is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It is a 10-digit code mandatory for all importers and exporters. Apply online at dgft.gov.in — typically issued within 2–3 days. Fee: ₹500.

Step 3: Register on FICS Portal

FICS (Food Import Clearance System) at fics.fssai.gov.in is the dedicated portal for each individual food import consignment clearance. Register with your FSSAI Central License credentials.

Step 4: Pre-Import Compliance Check

Before shipping food products to India, verify:

• Product complies with FSSAI standards for that food category
• Label compliance: English labels with all mandatory FSSAI declarations
• Shelf life: minimum 60% remaining shelf life at time of import
• No prohibited ingredients or additives above permissible limits
• Country of origin certificate from exporting country

Step 5: FICS Clearance Process (Per Consignment)

1. Log in to FICS portal
2. Create a new import application for the consignment
3. Upload Bill of Lading, Invoice, Packing List, and food safety documents
4. Submit NOC application
5. FSSAI reviews documents and may order lab testing
6. If testing required: samples sent to FSSAI-approved labs (takes 7–14 days)
7. Upon clearance: FSSAI issues No-Objection Certificate
8. Present NOC to Customs for release of goods

Step 6: Customs Clearance

• File Bill of Entry on ICEGATE portal
• Pay applicable customs duty (varies by HS code)
• Present FSSAI NOC to Customs Officer
• Goods released after customs inspection

Import Duty on Food Products

Basic Customs Duty on food products ranges from 0% to 100% depending on the product. Common rates:

• Fresh fruits: 50–100%
• Processed foods: 30–100%
• Beverages: 150%+
• Certain health products: 10–20%

Documents Required for Food Import

• FSSAI Central License (Importer category)
• IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
• Commercial Invoice
• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
• Packing List
• Certificate of Origin
• Health Certificate from exporting country
• Certificate of Analysis (COA) from manufacturer

Conclusion

Food import compliance in India is complex but navigable with the right guidance. Velco Legal India specializes in FSSAI Central License applications for importers and FICS portal assistance. Get your Central License in place before your first shipment. Starting ₹4,999.