India is the largest producer and exporter of incense sticks (also called agarbatti) in the world, known for their rich fragrances, natural ingredients, and spiritual significance. From temples in Thailand to meditation centers in Europe and spas in the USA, Indian incense is in high demand. If you’re planning to start a business importing incense sticks from India, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
1. Why Import Incense Sticks from India?
Before diving into the process, let’s understand why India is the top choice for incense products:
Quality & Variety – From sandalwood to floral, fruity, and herbal fragrances, India offers thousands of scent varieties.
Competitive Pricing – Due to large-scale production, Indian incense sticks are cost-effective.
Handcrafted Tradition – Many products are still made by hand, following traditional recipes passed down for generations.
Eco-friendly & Natural – Most exporters focus on sustainable production with natural ingredients like bamboo, wood powder, and essential oils.
2. Research and Identify Your Target Market
Before contacting suppliers, you need to decide:
Which type of incense you want to import – traditional agarbatti, dhoop sticks, cones, or premium luxury incense.
The target audience – religious organizations, meditation centers, yoga studios, spa owners, or retail customers.
The fragrance profiles that will sell well in your country.
Pro tip: Research your local laws regarding the import of scented products, as some countries have restrictions on certain ingredients.
3. Find Reliable Suppliers in India
Finding a trustworthy supplier is the most important step. Here’s how to do it:
Search Online Marketplaces – Alibaba, IndiaMART, TradeIndia, and ExportersIndia are popular platforms.
Visit Trade Fairs – Events like the India International Trade Fair (IITF) allow you to meet suppliers directly.
Check Certifications – Look for ISO, GMP, or fair trade certifications for quality assurance.
Ask for Samples – Always test product quality before placing bulk orders.
Bonus Tip: Shortlist at least 3 suppliers so you can compare pricing, packaging, and shipping terms.
4. Understand Import Regulations
Every country has its own import rules. You should:
Check if incense sticks are duty-free or have an import tax.
Find out about labelling requirements (e.g., country of origin, ingredients, safety warnings).
Learn about customs documentation like the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Packing List.
Confirm if you need an import license.
5. Negotiate Pricing and Payment Terms
When you’ve finalized your supplier:
Ask for bulk pricing – Higher quantity means lower per-unit cost.
Discuss Incoterms – Decide whether the supplier will handle shipping (CIF) or you will (FOB).
Payment Methods – Bank transfer, PayPal, or Letter of Credit are common options.
Pro tip: Always use secure payment channels and avoid paying the full amount upfront.
6. Arrange Shipping
There are two main ways to ship incense sticks internationally:
Air Freight – Faster but more expensive. Ideal for small orders.
Sea Freight – Cheaper for large volumes but takes longer.
Work with a freight forwarder who can handle logistics, customs clearance, and delivery to your warehouse.
7. Packaging and Branding
First impressions matter. Ensure your incense sticks:
Are packed in moisture-proof material to protect the fragrance.
Meet your branding requirements with attractive boxes and labels.
Follow your country’s labelling laws.
8. Customs Clearance
When your shipment arrives:
Submit all required documents to customs.
Pay applicable import duties or taxes.
Work with a customs broker if needed to speed up clearance.
9. Marketing and Selling Your Incense
Once your incense is in your warehouse, focus on selling:
Create an online store or sell through marketplaces like Amazon, Etsy, or eBay.
Supply to local stores, yoga studios, and gift shops.
Use social media marketing to showcase fragrances, benefits, and cultural background.
10. Building Long-Term Relationships
If you plan to grow your incense business:
Maintain good communication with your supplier.
Order regularly to get better prices.
Explore new fragrances and product types to expand your range.
Importing incense sticks from India can be a profitable and fulfilling business if done correctly. From selecting the right supplier to navigating customs and marketing your product, every step matters. With careful planning, you can bring the scents of India to your customers and create a thriving incense brand.
Importing incense sticks from India is easy when you have the right supplier.
Contact Sourish Agarbatti today for export quotes and fragrance samples.
