How to Import Korean Cosmetics (K-Beauty) to India: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

India's appetite for Korean beauty (K-beauty) products has grown rapidly, making it one of the most attractive markets for Korean cosmetic brands. But cosmetics are regulated imports — you cannot simply ship and sell. This guide walks a Korean brand through the entire process, end to end.

Step 1: Appoint an Indian Authorised Agent

A foreign cosmetic manufacturer must register through an Indian Authorised Agent — a locally established entity (importer, subsidiary, or distributor) that holds the registration and is answerable to the regulator. This is your legal anchor in India.

Step 2: Get CDSCO Cosmetic Import Registration

Every imported cosmetic must be registered with the CDSCO under the Cosmetics Rules, via Form COS-1, resulting in an import registration certificate (COS-2). Registration is product- and brand-specific and is mandatory before customs clearance.

Step 3: Meet Labeling & Legal Metrology Rules

Imported cosmetics must carry India-compliant labels — importer details, MRP, net quantity, manufacturing/import date, and ingredient list — in line with the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules.

Step 4: Obtain an IEC

Your Indian entity needs an Import Export Code (IEC) from the DGFT to clear any imports through customs.

Step 5: Clear Customs & Pay Duties

Cosmetics attract basic customs duty plus IGST. India and Korea have a trade agreement (CEPA) that can reduce duties on qualifying goods with the right certificate of origin.

Step 6: Choose Your Selling Channels

Sell through distributors, modern retail, or online marketplaces like Amazon India and Nykaa — each with its own onboarding and compliance needs.

Statura's Korea Desk manages the full journey — CDSCO registration, IEC, customs clearance, and market entry — as your single partner in India.