Setting Up Distribution & Warehousing in India for Korean Brands

Once imports clear customs, the next challenge is getting products to Indian retailers and consumers efficiently. Korean brands must choose a distribution and warehousing model that fits their scale and ambition.

Distribution Models

• Appointed distributor: A local partner buys and resells — lowest effort, but less control over pricing and brand.
• Own subsidiary + distributors: Your Indian entity imports and sells to a distributor network — more control.
• Direct-to-consumer: Sell online via marketplaces and your own store, fulfilled from an Indian warehouse.

Warehousing Options

• Marketplace fulfilment (e.g. Amazon FBA) — inventory in the platform's warehouses.
• Third-party logistics (3PL) — outsource storage and dispatch across regions.
• Own warehouse — full control, higher fixed cost.

GST & Movement of Goods

Interstate movement of goods above a threshold needs an e-way bill, and holding stock in a state may require GST registration there. Plan your warehouse locations with GST and delivery speed in mind.

Getting It Right

Start lean — a single well-located warehouse or marketplace fulfilment — then expand regionally as volumes grow.

Statura helps Korean brands structure distribution, obtain multi-state GST registration, and set up compliant operations in India.