How to import copper scrap into India in 2026

01

Get an IEC first

You need an Importer Exporter Code from DGFT before any import, scrap included.

The IEC is a 10-character code linked to your PAN. You apply online on the DGFT site.

It must be confirmed online every year, in the April to June window. An IEC that was not updated is deactivated.

02

Check the ITC(HS) code is Free

Clean copper scrap, ITC(HS) 7404 00 12, is Free to import, with conditions.

This line covers the common clean grades such as Millberry, Birch/Cliff and Candy. The conditions are in Para 2.54 of the Handbook of Procedures.

The scrap must not contain hazardous, radioactive or explosive material, or arms and ammunition.

Some other 7404 lines are Restricted and need a licence or a unit registered with the environment ministry. Confirm the 8-digit code with your customs agent before you pay.

03

Pre-shipment inspection (PSIC) and what changed in 2026

Metal scrap needs a pre-shipment inspection certificate, unless it ships from a listed safe country to a listed port.

The certificate comes from an inspection agency recognised by DGFT. Customs asks for it at clearance.

Scrap from the USA, UK, Canada, EU, Australia or New Zealand can skip it. That only works at six ports: Chennai, Tuticorin, Kandla, JNPT, Mumbai and Krishnapatnam. The seller then gives a scrap yard declaration instead.

In 2026 DGFT tightened the rules for inspection agencies. Trade press reports a 25 Aug 2026 notice asking for certificates to be uploaded on the inspection day, eased on 16 Sep 2026 to two days.

Business Standard also reports that DGFT delisted 15 inspection agencies in Sep 2026. Customs rejects certificates from a delisted agency. Check your agency on the DGFT list before the container is loaded.

This change tightens inspection. It is not a blanket approval to import scrap.

04

Hazardous waste rules and EPR

Clean copper scrap does not need environment ministry permission. Ash, dross and mixed residues can.

Under the Hazardous and Other Wastes Rules, 2016, clean copper scrap sits in Schedule III Part D. An actual user, or a trader supplying authorised users, can import it without prior permission.

Customs checks the Schedule VIII documents at clearance. Copper ash, dross or contaminated scrap can be classed as hazardous and needs prior permission.

A 2025 amendment added extended producer responsibility (EPR) for non-ferrous scrap from 1 Apr 2026. Importers may now need to register on the EPR portal and file returns.

05

Customs duty and IGST

Basic customs duty on copper scrap is Nil since 2 Feb 2025. IGST is 18%.

The Union Budget 2025-26 removed basic customs duty on copper waste and scrap. The Social Welfare Surcharge is 10% of that duty, so it is also nil.

IGST of 18% is charged on the assessable value. You can usually claim it back as input tax credit if you are GST-registered.

To see what a seller’s CIF offer costs you per kg at the port, use the Landed Cost Calculator.

06

Pick the right port

Unshredded scrap may only land at ports DGFT designates for it.

The list is set by public notice and changes from time to time. It includes Chennai, Cochin, JNPT, Kandla, Mumbai, Tuticorin and Vizag, among others.

If you want the safe-country route without inspection, stay with the six ports named above. Ask your customs agent for the current list before booking.

07

BIS marking

No BIS Quality Control Order covers copper scrap itself.

The Copper Products Quality Control Order, 2024 applies to finished products such as wire rod, strip and tubes. Scrap under 7404 is outside it.