Updated on April 09, 2025 05:30:13 PM
Animal food import has grown significantly in recent years in India. This is mainly because the animal market is expanding, and more people are looking for good quality food for their pets or animals. India imports many types of animal food products like complete meals and special diet food to meet the growing demand. The main countries that supply animal food to India are the United States and European Union countries. As the animal food import keeps growing, it is very important to make sure that these products are safe and of good quality.
In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) looks after the import of animal food. FSSAI checks and controls these products to make sure they meet safety and quality rules so that people get safe products for their animals. The growth of online shopping (e-commerce) has made it easier for people to buy different types of imported animal food products. This has helped meet the growing demand in the market, as customers can now easily choose from a wide variety of animal food online.
Animal Food Import Certificate [Sample]
Table of Content
Animal food, also called animal feed, is specially made for pets and other animals like dogs, cats, birds, fish, and farm animals. It gives them important nutrients like proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to keep them healthy. There are different types of animal food, such as dry food (kibble), wet food, semi-moist food, and raw food. Each type is made to meet the needs of different animals. The food is usually made from meat, grains, vegetables, and other healthy supplements to provide balanced nutrition. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) makes sure that animal food is safe and meets quality rules. Good animal food helps in the proper growth, energy, and overall health of the animals.
The HSN (Harmonized System Nomenclature) Code is a system used all over the world to classify goods for trade. It was developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to make the process of classifying products the same in every country. Animal food comes under HSN code 2309. This code is used for products that are made for feeding animals. HSN code helps in doing business easily. It makes the process of trade, tax, and rules simple and clear for animal food products in India and other countries.
The top HSN codes for Animal food imports in India are:
HSN Code | Product Description |
---|---|
23091000 | Dog Food |
23099090 | Fish Food |
39269099 | Chew Sticks |
39231090 | Bird Food |
25152090 | Food Processors |
Importing animal food into India can offer various benefits to businesses and consumers. Here are some of the key advantages:
A valid & eligible Import Export Code (IEC) holder, especially in trading and marketing of various animal food products, and industries sourcing the same for further processing can apply for the sanitary import permit.
Importing animal food into India involves several steps to ensure compliance with various regulations and standards. Here is a general procedure for importing animal food into India:
For proper registration the exporter should ensure that he has the following documents; Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, certificate of origin, import permit or license and any other relevant document that may be required.
To import animal food into India, you need to prepare and submit various documents to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Here is a list of essential documents required for importing animal food:
The total cost to import animal food into India would include the costs of obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, meeting labeling requirements, as well as the applicable import duties and taxes. The exact costs would depend on the specific product, country of origin, and other details of the import transaction.
In India, animal food that contains ingredients like meat or fish can come into the country only through selected ports. These ports have a special department called Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS). They check the animal food properly to make sure it is safe for pets and meets all the rules before it is allowed into India.
Conclusion
The Indian animal food market is growing because more people want better-quality imported products for their pets and animals. Popular imported products include packed animal food, dry food, special diet meals, treats, and health supplements. These products mostly come from countries like the United States and European nations. Many of them meet the safety and quality rules set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Importing animal food is helpful in many ways. It gives customers more food choices for their animals. The quality of the food is better, and there are new and healthy products available. It also helps Indian businesses to earn more and grow in the market. To import animal food into India, businesses need to follow some important steps. The process can be difficult and time-taking. To make it easy, consult Professional Utilities. Our expert team will help and guide you at every step of the registration process.
At Professional Utilities, we leverage our industry knowledge and expertise to help businesses navigate complex regulations, minimize risks, and optimize operations for maximum efficiency and profitability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, India imports pet food from countries like the USA and European countries to meet the growing demand for quality pet food in Indian cities.
Countries like China, Vietnam, and European countries import animal feed because they have a large number of farm animals and poultry like cows, pigs, and chickens that need food.
Yes, pet food is in high demand in India because more people are keeping pets like dogs and cats and want healthy and ready-made food for them.
India’s pet food market was valued at $843.89 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $1.98 billion by 2030 due to growing pet ownership.
India produces enough food grains, but in pet food, it still depends on imports for premium quality products and special pet nutrition items.
Amul cattle feed is very popular in India for farm animals, while for pets, Royal Canin and Pedigree are leading pet food brands.
China imports the most chicken in the world. In India, chicken is used in many pet foods like dog food and cat food for protein.
The United States is the biggest pet food exporter because of its advanced pet food industry, trusted brands, and high demand from other countries.
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