Top 15 Products Imported from China to India

Key Highlights:

• China is India's largest import partner, exporting items worth $58.71 billion.

• India's reliance on Chinese imports creates challenges, particularly in crucial areas such as automotive, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.

• China contributes a sizable portion of major industry imports, such as 20% of car parts and 70% of electronic components.

• China is India's third-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade totalling $113.83 billion in FY23.

• Electronic and electrical equipment, organic chemicals, machines, nuclear reactors, boilers, iron and steel, medical and optical instruments, plastics, fertilisers, automobiles, furniture, textiles, and other items.

• Initiatives such as Make in India, free trade agreements, and focusing on technological growth are in place.

In global trade, China has established itself as a manufacturing powerhouse, delivering diverse products to countries worldwide. As a prominent player in international trade, India has seen a massive increase in importing Chinese products over the years. Based on India import export data. China supplied India with supplies worth $58.71 billion. As a result, China is India's leading import partner. Consumer electronics, telecommunications equipment, hardware and components, electrical equipment, fertilisers, and chemicals were among the most popular Chinese imports. 

In this detailed guide, we glance at the top 15 Import products from China to India, shedding light on trends, challenges, and the most cost-effective strategies to import products from China.

India's Import Dependence on China

As we know, China-India bilateral trade has been a highly challenging topic in recent years due to various factors, ranging from challenges caused by import dependency in particular sectors to economic opportunities as the global supply chain possibly import goods from china to India.

The relationship between Asia's two titans and the rest of the world has been rapidly evolving. The two countries have also expressed interest in participating in a global trade system following WTO obligations. Today, India and China are major trading partners with strong economic and bilateral ties.

The dependence on China for various raw materials (APIs, basic chemicals, agro-intermediates) and crucial components (auto, durables, capital goods) is disproportionate. According to Import export data, China accounts for 20% of car parts and 70% of electrical components imported. Similarly, 45 percent of consumer durables, 70 percent of APIs, and 40 percent of leather items are imported from China to India.

Import products from China: Key Import Statistics:

Many countries rely on China to provide high-quality items at low prices. Since the year following the outbreak, China has been India's top import destination. According to export import data, at the end of the first quarter of 2023, import products from China had increased to $98.5 billion, representing a 4.16 percent increase in import from China to India.

According to Global Trade Data 2022, India imported $89.66 billion in products from China in the first nine months, the most significant level ever recorded for three-quarters of a year. At the same time, India's average applied import tariff increased to 18.3% from 15% the previous year.

Regarding India's other key trade partners, the United States of America followed China with products worth $77.02 billion in 2021, while the United Arab Emirates came in third with goods worth $43.07 billion. 

Looking for the top import products from China statistics? explore our custom data on a single data-driven platform. 

Also read: Identify Ideal Buyers and Suppliers with India's Import Export Data

India-China Trade Volumes for 2022–23

Below is a quick summary of India-China trade volumes for 2022–23:

• In FY23, bilateral trade between India and China totalled $113.83 billion. As of 2022–23, China was India's third-largest trade partner.

• Bilateral commerce between India and China reached US$115.83 billion in 2021, up 34% from US$86.39 billion in 2020. In 2020, India became China's 16th largest trade partner.

• India-China bilateral trade has continued to grow. Total commerce between India and China has surged 29% over the last five years, reaching US$115 billion in the fiscal year 2021-22 from US$89.72 billion in 2017-18.

• In FY22, China accounted for 15.4% of India's total imports. India imported commodities worth US$ 613.2 billion from the world, including items worth US$ 94.2 billion.

India's extraordinarily high and ever-increasing import export trade deficit is the result of importing commodities to bridge the gap between domestic production and supply and customer and demand preferences for diverse products. Most Indian agricultural products face market access barriers, as do competitive markets such as medicines and IT/ITES. China's exports of raw materials have overtaken India's. However, imports have decreased slightly in 2023.

Source: Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Importing products from China to India:

Import products from China to India has become popular among firms looking for low-cost solutions and a diversified product offering. The process entails navigating numerous trade rules, evaluating market demand, and determining the most cost-effective modes of transportation. From electronics to textiles, China serves various sectors in India.

Importing products from China to India opens up opportunities, but careful planning is required. First and foremost, secure your Importer-Exporter Code (IEC), which serves as your passport to worldwide trade. Next, consider your options: pick a product that complies with Indian requirements and comes from a reputable Chinese source. Negotiate a good contract that addresses quality, payment conditions, and shipment. And last, you need to obtain reliable top import product data or updated HS codes. However, you can obtain these details from the Eximpedia.app platform. 

Importing from China to India may be a rewarding experience full of excitement and opportunity. With the correct preparation, tools like Eximpedia.app on your side, and a commitment to compliance, you can smoothly navigate the top  import products from China and India trade data and open the doors to success. 

The top 15 products imported from china to India

Many different types of products can be imported from China to India. Considering the facts and trends, 2023 and beyond may present numerous opportunities for small business owners in India to choose the best import products from China to India.

In this section, we will dive into the top 15 import goods from China to India, and based on the below table, we will help you understand the statistics very clearly.

1. Electrical and electronic equipment:

Electrical and electronic equipment are China's top import products from China to India. It includes smartphones, laptops, televisions, power supplies, and other electronic devices. With a significant and technologically educated population, India relies significantly on China's low-cost electronics to power domestic consumption and manufacturing. According to the global trade database, India purchased electronic equipment worth $30.63 billion from China in 2022. Anything engaging and innovative in electronics is virtually always exported from China. By researching the market, you can become a seller and supplier of goods. Also, cell phones are India's most major electronic imports from China.

Also read: What Does China's Electronic Market Shut Down Means For Global Trade?

Here is a list of the electrical equipment that import products from China to India.

• Electronic Integrated Circuits and Micro Assembly

• Electrical equipment for line telephony or telegraphy

• Diodes

• Transistors

• Similar semiconductor devices.

• Transmission equipment for radiotelephony, television, and cameras

• Cordless telephones and TV parts

• Radio and radar equipment.

2. Machinery:

This category includes industrial machines, agricultural equipment, and construction machinery. China's advanced manufacturing skills provide India with cost-effective solutions for expanding infrastructural and industrial sectors.

Imports of machinery, nuclear reactors, and boilers from China to India were $21.72 billion in 2022 and $18.8 billion in 2021, a greater than 15% rise over the previous year.

• Industrial machinery for various sectors: The textile, food processing, and pharmaceutical industries rely significantly on Chinese machinery due to its low cost and extensive range of alternatives.

• Agricultural machinery: Tractors and irrigation equipment help boost farm output and modernization.

• Growing domestic alternatives: India intends to increase its machinery manufacturing to lessen reliance and create high-skilled jobs.

Based on the Global Database, these are some of the most significant parts of imports:

• Automated data processing machines

• Magnetic or optical readers

• Parts of typewriters and computing machines

• Air or vacuum pumps

• Air or other gas compressors.

3. Organic Chemicals: 

These chemicals are used in pharmaceuticals, paints, plastics, and other industries, which are critical to India's broad industrial industry. China's robust chemical sector makes it a stable supplier of these raw ingredients.

• Pharmaceutical ingredients: Bulk imports of pharmaceutical ingredients help India produce more cheap medicines. However, reliance creates concerns about potential supply disruptions and promotes domestic production efforts.

• Chemical intermediates for various sectors: Because of their low cost, organic compounds from China are widely used in the paint, dye, and plastics industries.

• Environmental problems: There are some concerns about the environmental impact of Chinese chemical manufacturing, prompting calls for more sustainable procedures.

4. Plastics:

According to the Global Trade Database, Indian plastic imports from China amounted to 5.44 billion in 2022, making it the fourth largest import category. 

• Plastic packaging materials are affordable and suitable for various industries, including food and consumer items. Concerns are raised about plastic garbage handling and associated environmental consequences.

• Toys, furniture, and other household items made from Chinese plastic are popular because they are inexpensive. Initiatives encouraging local manufacturing and sustainable alternatives are gaining momentum.

5. Fertilizers:

Fertilizer, critical for agricultural output, is frequently imported from China due to its low cost and availability. This dependence, however, raises questions regarding long-term food security and sustainability.

India imports fertilisers like diammonium phosphate to increase its chromium output. Its contribution to the country's agriculture industry is unparalleled. Other fertilisers include urea, a major plant nutrient among Indian farmers.

According to the top Import products from China database, India imported fertilisers worth $2.34 billion in 2022.

6. Optical, Photo, Technical, and Medical Apparatus:

In 2022, the value of optical, photo, technological, and medical apparatus imported from China to India was $2.21 billion.

Important product categories include:

• Medical equipment: diagnostic and imaging equipment purchased from China meets expanding healthcare needs, yet budget concerns may result in quality issues.

• Scientific equipment: While research and development rely on low-cost Chinese instruments, there are worries about intellectual property rights and technological reliance.

• Focus on domestic innovation: Encouraging domestic research and development in these fields can help lessen dependence and accelerate technical breakthroughs.

7. Iron and steel:

Based on international trade data, India is expected to import iron and steel worth $1.98 billion from China in 2022.

• Construction materials: Because of its low cost and availability, Chinese steel is often used in infrastructure projects. This dependence has an impact on both project costs and long-term supply security.

• Domestic steel industry growth: India invests in steel production to reduce reliance and improve infrastructure development capacities.

8. Vehicle Parts and Vehicles:

China remains the leading source of automobile component imports for the Indian auto sector. The items imported include engine and gearbox parts, tyre goods, hubcaps, front and rear spoilers, car lights, rearview mirrors, car sensors, and automobile accessory cables.

• Two-wheeler parts and bikes: Chinese components and motorcycles help to make the Indian two-wheeler market more affordable and diverse. There are concerns about the quality and safety of specific models.

• Automobile parts: The rising Indian automobile sector relies on Chinese factors for cost savings, which affect car prices and production costs. Domestic component manufacturing projects are growing.

9. Textile Yarn and Fabrics:

Indian garment producers rely on low-cost Chinese yarn, prompting concerns about competition and the sustainability of the indigenous textile industry. In addition, India intends to shift its focus on higher-value, specialised textiles to minimise dependency and increase export competitiveness.

10. Drugs and Pharmaceuticals: 

Antibiotic and diabetes drugs from China provide economical healthcare access, but their use raises issues about drug security and quality management.

Indian pharmaceutical companies source a variety of APIs from China, which affects domestic drug production prices and intellectual property rights. However, India invests in API manufacturing to reduce reliance and assure drug security for critical medications.

11. Aluminium:

India's growing infrastructure and construction sectors rely significantly on Chinese aluminium imports. Aluminium ingots and sheets are inexpensive raw materials for various applications, including construction materials, electrical equipment, and transportation.

The domestic aluminium industry needs help competing with China's low prices, affecting profitability and growth. However, India is looking into measures to increase aluminium output and build reserves to reduce import dependency in crucial sectors.

12. Organic hetero-cyclic compounds:

These complex organic compounds serve numerous uses, such as medications, insecticides, and dyes:

• Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs): Some critical APIs for specific pharmaceuticals are acquired from China, which affects drug production prices and availability.

• Pesticides and agrochemicals: Affordable Chinese pesticides meet agricultural needs, but worries about potential environmental and health consequences must be addressed.

13. Rubber and Articles

Rubber and finished rubber products are vital in the India-China commercial connection. While India produces some natural rubber, it heavily relies on Chinese imports for raw materials and final products. Several reasons contribute to this reliance, including:

• Cost-effectiveness: 

• Product Variety: 

• Reliable Supply: 

14. Iron and steel:

China's large-scale steel manufacturing and effective supply chains enable it to deliver iron and steel goods competitively, which appeals to Indian purchasers. It affects building costs, production expenses, and overall project feasibility. China provides a constant and dependable supply of iron and steel products, reducing disruptions and delays in infrastructure projects and industrial operations. This predictability is critical to project planning and economic stability.

15. Miscellaneous Chemical Products:

Hidden inside the broad category of "Miscellaneous Chemical Products" is a vast and diverse range of Chinese imports, contributing considerably to numerous Indian businesses. This category, valued at USD 1.71 billion in 2022, includes various chemicals essential for daily life and industrial activities. Let's look at some significant products in this complicated import category:

The future of India-China commerce in these top 20 products depends on India's ability to balance these competing interests successfully. India can profit from imports while ensuring a lot of self-reliance and sustainable economic growth by developing domestic skills, supporting sustainable practices, and diversifying trade agreements.

Finally, the Import products from china to India highlights the interconnectivity of global trade and the critical role India must play in creating its economic future. By adopting a comprehensive approach that balances affordability and long-term sustainability, India can manage the complexity of this trade relationship and safeguard its economy's thriving and independent future.

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Importing from China to India: Challenges and Solutions:

While importing products from China to India presents lucrative opportunities, it also comes with challenges. The key challenges are navigating through customs regulations, ensuring product quality, and finding the cheapest way to import. To address these, it is crucial to engage in thorough research, and establish a reliable platform like Eximpedia.app, where you can obtain the top Import products from china to India statistics, and much more

However, understanding the cheapest ways to import from China to India is essential for businesses aiming 

to maximize their profit margins. Exploring sea freight, air freight, and land transportation options and taking advantage of bulk shipping and consolidation services can significantly reduce shipping costs. Monitoring currency exchange rates and optimizing customs clearance processes can also contribute to cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion:

Importing goods from China to India has become an important part of the two countries' expanding trading relationship. From consumer electronics to industrial devices, the varied spectrum of imported products demonstrates the breadth of this economic collaboration. While challenges exist, firms can overcome them by remaining informed, forming strategic alliances, and investigating cost-effective transportation options. As the import landscape evolves, businesses must adapt to remain competitive in the ever-changing world of global trade. However, if you need any kind of assistance regarding the export import data or Global trade data, you can connect with our dedicated professionals anytime!

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's)

Q1. Which Product Does India Import the Most from China?

It is not a single product but a vast group of organic substances. In 2022, India imported a record $13.55 billion in organic chemicals from China. These are essential in many Indian sectors, including pharmaceuticals, dyes, insecticides, and polymers.

Q2. What Are the Most Profitable Items to Import from China to India?

Profitability relies on multiple factors, but high-demand products with relatively low import costs can be good options. Consider items like:

• Electronics and mobile accessories: 

• Machinery and parts: 

• Chemicals and fertilizers: 

• Toys and homeware: 

Q3. How Much Does It Cost to Import from China to India?

Costs vary significantly based on the product, quantity, shipping method, and customs duties. Generally, expect expenses like:

• Product cost: Negotiate with your Chinese supplier for the best unit price.

• Shipping: Air freight is faster but more expensive than sea freight, which is cheaper but takes longer.

• Customs duties: Before importing your product, research the tariffs and taxes that are specific to it.

• Additional expenditures include insurance, warehousing, and local transportation.

Q4. Why Does India Import from China?

Several factors contribute to India's reliance on Chinese imports:

• Competitive pricing: China's large-scale production and efficient supply chains allow for cheaper product costs.

• Product variety: Chinese producers provide a wide selection of products that are frequently unavailable or more expensive domestically.

• Manufacturing expertise: China has excellent manufacturing skills for various products, including electronics and chemicals.

Q6. Is It Okay to Import Products from China to India?

While China remains a primary import source, India's government is making attempts to lessen dependence.

• Make in India Initiative: This programme enhances domestic production while reducing import dependency.

• Free trade agreements: looking for agreements with other countries to diversify import sources and maybe find better deals.

• Focus on technology development: invest in R&D to improve domestic production capabilities.

Q6. Is It Okay to Import Products from China to India?

Yes, it is legal to import things from China into India. Importing goods from China requires updated India’s import export data and an import-export licence with an IEC number, as does import from other nations.

Q7. Which Kind of Products Can Indians Import from China?

China exports various products to India, including vehicle parts, electronics, telecommunications, nuclear technology, and fertilizer tools.

Q8. What Are India's Top Imported Products?

According to India's import data, India's most significant imports include crude oil ($59 billion), gold ($21.9 billion), coal briquettes ($20.9 billion), diamonds ($15.8 billion), and petroleum gas ($13.8 billion), with the majority of imports coming from China ($64.2 billion), the United States ($26.6 billion), the United Arab Emirates ($22.1 billion), Saudi Arabia ($16.8 billion), and Iraq ($14.4 billion).

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