Importing Indonesian Food Products into India: FSSAI Essentials

India's food import system is run by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and most of the work sits with the importer. Get it right before the shipment sails and clearance is routine. Get it wrong and the container waits at the port. This guide covers what an Indian importer needs before ordering raw crackers or vegetarian food from Indonesia.

1. Hold an FSSAI Import Licence and an IEC

Before importing any food, the importer must hold a valid FSSAI import licence (a central licence) and an Importer Exporter Code (IEC)from the DGFT. The importer must be a legal entity in India. Clearance at the port is handled through FSSAI's online Food Import Clearance System (FICS).

2. Confirm the Product Can Be Cleared

Products must be either standardised under India's food regulations, proprietary food that complies with them, or have a separate product approval from FSSAI. Share the full ingredient list and specification with your customs broker before ordering so the category is clear from the start.

3. Get the Indian Label Right Before Printing

Imported food must be labelled to FSSAI requirements. Among other details, the label carries the vegetarian or non-vegetarian symbol, the importer's name and address, the FSSAI logo and licence number, and the country of origin. This affects product choice:

• Raw prawn crackers contain seafood and take the non-vegetarian symbol.
• Raw cassava and onion crackers and vegetarian noodles can carry the vegetarian symbol, which opens up India's large vegetarian market.

For private-label orders, send your supplier the final label artwork so it is printed correctly, rather than relying on stickers at the port.

4. Use AIFTA Form AI for Preferential Duty

India and Indonesia trade under the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement (AIFTA). Qualifying goods can claim preferential duty with a Certificate of Origin in the AIFTA format, Form AI, issued in Indonesia. Check the duty rate for your HS code with your broker and ask your supplier to supply Form AI with each shipment. Plant-based products may also need a phytosanitary certificate.

Pre-Order Checklist

• FSSAI central import licence and IEC valid
• Product category and clearance route confirmed with your broker
• Label artwork includes veg/non-veg symbol, importer details, FSSAI logo and licence number
• AIFTA Form AI and phytosanitary certificate (where needed) requested
• Price agreed FOB Belawan, with your forwarder booked from Belawan

PT Arisyafood Global Niaga exports raw crackers and vegetarian food to importers outside Indonesia, quoting FOB Belawan. See our vegetarian range, the private-label noodle checklist, or send an export inquiry.