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India
Chennai — South Asia operations and FTWZ
A fast-growing manufacturing and export power. Documentation discipline and the IEC/GST framework are the keys to smooth cargo — plus free trade warehousing for deferred-duty distribution.
Key gateways
- ▸Chennai & Ennore (south-east manufacturing belt)
- ▸Nhava Sheva / JNPT, Mumbai (largest container port)
- ▸Mundra (west-coast private port)
- ▸Chennai & Delhi air cargo complexes
- ▸Free Trade Warehousing Zones (FTWZ) for duty-deferred stock
Importing basics
- ▸Importers need an Import Export Code (IEC) and GST registration; filings run through ICEGATE.
- ▸Duty stacks basic customs duty + social welfare surcharge + IGST — model the full stack for landed cost.
- ▸Many consumer goods require BIS or other certifications before import; lead times can be long, so verify early.
Exporting basics
- ▸Exports also require the IEC; shipping bills file through ICEGATE with e-BRC for payment reconciliation.
- ▸Incentive schemes such as RoDTEP duty remission can materially improve export economics — claim them systematically.
- ▸Pre-shipment inspection and buyer-country certificates are common for agri and food exports — handled locally by our Chennai team.
Core documents
- ▸Commercial invoice & packing list
- ▸Shipping bill / bill of entry (ICEGATE)
- ▸IEC & GST details
- ▸Certificates of origin (India's FTAs)
- ▸Product certifications (BIS etc.) where applicable
Tips from our India desk
- →Book early around Diwali and pre-monsoon peaks — space and trucking tighten fast.
- →Use FTWZ facilities to hold imported stock duty-deferred until it is sold into the domestic market.
- →Factory-stuffed containers with early document handover clear fastest at Indian ports.
General guidance, not advice for a specific transaction — regulations and tariff measures change. Confirm current requirements for your goods with our team or official sources.
Ready when you are