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Q: My father has been running a furniture and timber business in India for last 20 years. I want to import his goods from India to UK, how do I go about this?

Feb 16 2006

Answered by: Philip Wilkinson Ask a question

Importing goods and materials can be complex. You need to give some thought to how the different elements of the operation will fit together. These include drawing up contracts with your overseas supplier, transport arrangements, storage and documentation, compliance with UK legislation, trading terms and whether your goods are subject to import quotas.

In addition, goods imported into the UK and EU member states are also subject to import duties. Under the EC common customs tariff, all EU member states charge a common tariff to goods imported from outside the EU. Contact the DTI import/licensing branch helpline on 01642-364333 for further advice on this matter. You may also wish to visit our website at www.businesslink4london.com and view our fact sheet entitled ‘Legal issues for importers’.

Comments [1]

Comment by Rachna Gupta

Monday 24th March 2008

Over the last decade exports from India have been on an increase. The key to starting any import transaction is to identify the right supplier and thereafter the negotiations with respect to price, quality parameters and payment terms. Any exporter from India needs to obtain an Import/Export Code and can thereafter send the goods through a freight forwarder accompanied with documents such as Invoice, Packing list, Certificate of origin and any other document mandatory as per EU Norms. You may wish to visit our website: www.insideindiatrade.com and contact us for any further discussion.

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