There are many opportunities of doing business in India, especially for foreign businesspersons. However, before you do anything one should be very clear and that are set, rules, regulations, and restrictions that are to be followed.
Another easy way out is to consult a freight forwarder to India; they will guide you in the best way. If you do not want to go for this option, no problem, as knowing everything is necessary to know procedures exactly. The reason for telling all this is that if every formality is met properly then the hassle of completing the missing papers will be out of the question.
Indian authorities are very strict about customs procedures and documentation. Everything should be legal and according to the allowance of government, that crosses the border of India.
There are some very imperative documents that are required without them you cannot transfer anything to any state. India is a vast country that has many states in them and every one of them has a separate system. But there are some documents which are mandatory no matter in which city you are trading.
For importing, you need the bill of lading, commercial invoice plus packing list and bill of entry. Digitalization is fast reaching Indian air and seaports and with them, this task will become easier.
Cargo to India and UK have a shared history and for them understanding the procedures and terms is not a big deal. In addition, there are consultants present in India who can give detailed information of ways and requisite for newcomers. India is an always-growing market with the population of young people on the rise.
They obviously have access to what is in the international market. Due to this, the local shopkeeper certainly wants to acquire those goods and then sell them and increase business. The UK provides services in different sectors for development.
These include finance, infrastructure, energy efficiency, vocational skills, education, and healthcare. Therefore, India is a vast market and UK is a key investor in it.
Free Trade Agreements are very useful for trade point of view. You get duty free transport of goods and many more advantages come with them. India is in process of doing the deal with EU and recently has started talking with Britain to reach an appropriate agreement.
This will further increase the exchange of goods and give a turn to this industry. Countries have to work hard for becoming a part of international market and India is doing all to achieve this goal.
A valid visa and passport are must to enter the country for personal affairs or if you are going to commence a business. Business visas are restricted to 6 months. Some knowledge of language and cultural aspects also help a lot in recognizing the need for market and what will be appropriate to sell there.
There are some hurdles which may disturb you at first, but if you really want a strong set up in this country, accepting them and becoming a part of them will be a good idea.