Customs Clearance Pharmaceuticals for India
Our customs team manages the complete customs clearance for Pharmaceuticals to and from India. AEO-F certified, experienced with the specific permits, certificates, and origin documents for this combination.
For Pharmaceuticals relating to India require attention on multiple fronts. On one side, product-specific rules apply for Pharmaceuticals (HS codes, certificates, possibly DGR). On the other side, the trade regime between the EU and India (Derde land zonder akkoord) determines which import duties and origin documents apply.
On this page you will find the combination: what specifically applies to Pharmaceuticals, plus what applies specifically to India, plus how Aircargo.nl handles this combination daily.
Specific Rules for Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceutical shipments are subject to strict regulations on multiple fronts. Customs requires GMP and GDP-compliant distribution licenses; the IGJ (Healthcare and Youth Inspectorate) oversees product specifications; and narcotics or psychotropic substances require an opium law permit from the CIBG. Temperature excursions are grounds for rejection — ensure comprehensive documentation for the entire chain.
HS Code Examples:
Chapter 30 — pharmaceutical products: 3004.90 other medicines, 3002.41 vaccines, 3006.30 diagnostic reagents. For clinical samples: 3002.12. Importers of medicines are subject to stricter TARIC controls than supplements or medical devices (Chapter 90).
Specific Rules for India
No free trade agreement between the EU and India (in negotiation for years). Standard MFN tariffs apply. Indian Customs (CBIC) is known for rigorous document checks and a tendency toward physical inspections. For Dutch exports to India: detailed IEC code of the importer, correct HS code, and accurate valuation are essential. Anti-dumping measures are active in India mainly against certain Chinese products — not relevant for EU export.
Typical Documents:
Commercial invoice with the Indian importer’s IEC code, packing list, Air Waybill, Certificate of Origin (issued by Chamber of Commerce), and possibly permits for specific goods (BIS certification for electronics).
Import Duties and Charges for Pharmaceuticals India
Most medicines are subject to 0% import duties in the EU under the Pharmaceutical Tariff Elimination Agreement. Medical devices and non-prescription supplements may incur 2–6% duties. VAT in the Netherlands: 9% for medicines, 21% for cosmetics and supplements.
Under which regime: India falls under “Derde land zonder akkoord.” Origin document for preferential tariff: factuurverklaring. We calculate exactly what you owe in advance and prepare the correct origin document.
With our TST license, we can store pharmaceutical shipments in temporary storage with suspension of duties and VAT for up to 90 days — for example during batch release by your own quality department. Our CWP (customs warehouse) is suitable for longer-term inventory management. ACE (Authorized Consignee) allows direct transfer to our controlled environment without delay at Schiphol.
Key Figures Pharmaceuticals India
Frequently Asked Questions about Pharmaceuticals India
How long does customs clearance take for Pharmaceuticals from India?
With correct documentation, clearance typically occurs within a few hours at Schiphol. For India shipments, we use 4-10 hours at Schiphol; on the Indian side, processing can take longer if inspections are required as a benchmark. For Pharmaceuticals, additional inspections (phytosanitary, veterinary, NVWA) may require extra time — we notify you in advance to minimize waiting times.
What documents do I need for Pharmaceuticals India?
For Pharmaceuticals: see the product-specific certificates above. For India: see typical documents above. The combination means we gather both sets and coordinate them. You provide commercial invoice, packing list, and any certificates — we validate and prepare the declaration.
Can I pay import duties for this flow in a grouped manner?
Yes. Under our DPO permit (Deferred Payment Option), you can pay import duties and VAT for Pharmaceuticals from India collectively — monthly instead of per shipment.
Which origin document do I use for preferential tariff?
factuurverklaring. We prepare this document under our authorization as customs agents, provided the origin rules (including product-specific rules for Pharmaceuticals) are met.
How does your service work in practice?
We handle the entire process: pre-declaration (Pre-Lodgement), import declaration (DMS), any NVWA notifications for Pharmaceuticals, and payment processing under DPO if desired. You get a single point of contact for the whole clearance.
Ready for customs clearance of Pharmaceuticals India?
Send us your shipment details for customs clearance of Pharmaceuticals to India. We respond within 4 hours with a fixed price.