TMI BlogAn overview on the Import of Cigarette Lighters into India.X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... An overview on the Import of Cigarette Lighters into India. X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... pter (in this case, Chapter 96, which covers various goods, including articles for personal use like lighters). 13: The next two digits specify the subheading for lighters It's important to note that depending on the specifics of the lighter (for example, whether it's refillable or disposable), further sub-classifications may apply. Below is a detailed overview of the import policies, restrictions, and procedures involved: 1. Import Policy for Cigarette Lighters * Cigarette lighters, in most cases, are freely importable into India under the Indian Trade Classification (ITC), as long as they meet certain compliance and safety standards. * However, there could be specific import restrictions based on the product's compliance w ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... ith Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulations or other safety certifications. Sr. No. HSN_CD Description UQC Import Policy Policy Condition DGFT Notification No Notification Date 1 9613 CIGARETTE LIGHTERS AND OTHER LIGHTERS, WHETHER OR NOT MECHANICAL OR ELECTRICAL, AND PARTS THEREOF OTHER THAN FLINTS AND WICKS U 2 961310 POCKET LIGHTERS, GAS FUELLED, NON-REFILLABLE U 3 96131000 POCKET LIGHTERS, GAS FUELLED, NON-REFILLABLE U Prohibited However, import is "Free" if CIF value is Rs. 20/- or above per lighter. 15/2023 29.06.2023 4 961320 POCKET LIGHTERS, GAS FUELLED, REFILLABLE U 5 96132000 POCKET LIGHTERS, GAS FUELLED, REFILLABLE U Prohibited However, import is "Free" if CIF value is Rs. ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... 20/- or above per lighter. 15/2023 29.06.2023 6 961380 OTHER LIGHTERS : U 7 96138010 ELECTRONIC U Free 8 96138090 OTHER U Free 9 961390 PARTS U 10 96139000 PARTS U Free Import of Parts of pocket lighters, gas fuelled, non-refillable or refillable lighters (Cigarette lighters) under HS codes 96139000, is 'Restricted, with immediate effect. 36/2024-25 13.10.2024 2. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Certification * Lighters and similar products may require BIS certification to ensure they meet safety standards for consumer products. * Manufacturers or importers must obtain approval from the Bureau of Indian Standards, especially if the product falls under a regulated category. * IS/ISO 9994:2005 is the st ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... andard applicable for cigarette lighters, which covers the specifications, testing, and safety requirements. * https://bis.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/PM-IS-9994.pdf 3. Customs Duties and Taxes * Import of cigarette lighters is subject to customs duties, which are calculated based on the HS Code of the product and the basic customs duty is 20% plus cess @ 10%. * The specific HS Code for cigarette lighters falls under HS Code 9613. * Importers must also comply with Goods and Services Tax (GST) on imported goods. The applicable GST rate for such products is generally 18%, but it is advisable to confirm based on the classification of the product. 4. Import Restrictions and Prohibited Items * While cigarette lighters are larg ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... ely freely importable, India does place certain restrictions on the import of products that may pose a risk to public safety or health. * Dangerous goods such as lighters containing flammable substances might require additional approvals from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), especially when the quantity or specifications seem risky. * Certain types of lighters may be prohibited if they do not meet safety standards or pose fire hazards. 5. Safeguard to Indian Matchbox Industry * The Indian government may impose measures to protect the domestic matchbox industry, especially against large-scale imports of unsafe or low-quality lighters. * Safeguard measures could include anti-dumping duties or anti-subsidy duties on li ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... ghters if evidence suggests unfair trade practices by exporting countries. * The import and lighters could be regulated to ensure that local manufacturers of matchboxes products are not unfairly disadvantaged. 6. Import Compliance Procedures * Importer Exporter Code (IEC): Importers must have a valid IEC issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to legally import goods into India. * Bill of Entry: After the goods arrive at Indian ports, importers must file a Bill of Entry with the Customs Department to initiate customs clearance. * Import Authorization (License): Depending on the country of origin and product specifications, an import license may be required. However, no Import Authorization is required from DGFT on ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... such imports. * Customs Clearance: The goods are subject to customs clearance and inspection for compliance with Indian regulations. * Lab Testing and Safety Compliance: Imported cigarette lighters may be subject to lab tests for safety checks (flame height, ignition mechanism, etc.) to ensure they meet the relevant BIS standards. 7. Documents Required for Import * Commercial Invoice * Packing List * Bill of Lading * Importer Exporter Code (IEC) * Certificate of Origin * BIS Certification (if applicable) * Test Reports (if applicable) * GST Registration Number 8. Role of Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) * The DGFT may impose certain import restrictions or licensing requirements on specific items, includin ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... g cigarette lighters, depending on the market conditions and domestic policy. It's essential for importers to stay updated on any notifications from the DGFT.
Conclusion:
The import of cigarette lighters into India is regulated by several authorities, including Customs, BIS, and the DGFT. The key to a smooth import process is ensuring product compliance with safety standards, obtaining the necessary certifications, and adhering to the customs and tax requirements. X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X
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