Introduction
Hong Kong is a global trade hub known for electronics, gadgets, clothing, accessories, toys, and small machinery. Importing from Hong Kong to India is popular because prices are competitive and shipments are fast.
This Saving Mantra guide explains the entire import process in simple language, so businesses and beginners can understand how to import safely and legally.
Step-by-Step Process to Import from Hong Kong
Step 1 — Decide What You Want to Import
First, choose the product clearly and check:
- Whether it is allowed to be imported into India
- Whether it needs special certification (like BIS for electronics, FSSAI for food items)
- Whether there are any restrictions
Knowing this early saves money and prevents customs delays.
Step 2 — Find the Correct HS Code
Every product has an HS code.
This code decides:
- What customs duty you will pay
- Whether the product is regulated
- What documents you need
Choose the correct HS code before placing an order.
Step 3 — Get Import Registrations
To import into India, make sure you have:
- IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
- GST Registration
- AD Code registered at the port
- Digital Signature Certificate
These are compulsory for filing customs documents.
Step 4 — Finalize Order with Your Hong Kong Supplier
When you agree on the purchase, confirm:
- Price
- Product quality
- Incoterms (such as EXW, FOB, CIF, DAP)
- Delivery time
- Payment terms (TT, PayPal, LC, etc.)
For first-time importers, CIF (shipping + insurance included) is usually safer.
Step 5 — Arrange Shipping
Hong Kong supports both air freight and sea freight.
Air Freight
Fast, suitable for electronics, mobile accessories, and small items.
Sea Freight
Cheaper for bulk goods, clothing, toys, and general merchandise.
Choose the shipping method based on budget, speed, and product type.
Step 6 — Collect Export Documents from the Supplier
Your Hong Kong supplier must provide:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Air Waybill (for air) or Bill of Lading (for sea)
- Certificate of Origin (if required)
- Test or compliance certificates (if necessary)
Always check documents before the shipment leaves Hong Kong.
Step 7 — Customs Clearance in India
Once goods reach the Indian port/airport:
Filing the Bill of Entry
Your customs broker files all documents with customs.
Duty Calculation
You must pay:
- Basic Customs Duty
- Social Welfare Surcharge
- IGST
- Any anti-dumping duty (only for special cases)
Inspection
Customs may physically check goods to confirm value and safety.
Out-of-Charge
After duties and verification, customs releases the goods.
Step 8 — After Import Completion
Once you receive the goods:
- Keep all documents safely
- Update GST records
- Check product quality and quantity
- Follow Indian regulations for selling or using the product
Good record-keeping helps with audits and future imports.
Document Checklist (Simple List)
From Hong Kong Supplier
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Air Waybill / Bill of Lading
- Certificate of Origin
- Compliance Certificates (if needed)
For Indian Customs
- IEC
- GST Registration
- AD Code
- Bill of Entry
- Duty Payment Receipt
- Product-specific licences (if required)
Saving Mantra Tips for Smooth Import
- Avoid under-invoicing — it causes penalties.
- Always check product quality when working with new suppliers.
- Use trusted shipping and customs brokers.
- Avoid restricted or counterfeit goods — Hong Kong markets often sell mixed-quality items.
- Maintain all documents for at least five years.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information only. Import rules, customs duties, certificates, and procedures may change anytime. Always verify the latest requirements with DGFT, Indian Customs, and certified professionals before importing. Saving Mantra is not responsible for business decisions made using this information.