How to Import Clothing from India to Canada and Australia
Canada and Australia are two of the fastest-growing markets for Indian-made private label fashion. Both countries have large South Asian diaspora communities driving demand for ethnic and fusion wear, plus a growing appetite among mainstream fashion brands for Indian manufacturing — low MOQ, quality craftsmanship, and competitive pricing. This guide covers everything Canadian and Australian brands need to know about importing garments from India.
Importing to Canada — Key Facts
Import Duties
Canada applies MFN tariff rates to Indian garments. Most garment categories attract 17–18% duty. Canada GST (5%) is also payable on importation and reclaimable for GST-registered businesses.
| Product | HS Chapter | Canada MFN Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Knitted garments (T-shirts, hoodies) | HS 61 | ~17–18% |
| Woven garments (dresses, trousers) | HS 62 | ~17–18% |
| Nightwear, woven | HS 6207/6208 | ~17% |
| Babies'/children's garments | HS 6111 | ~17% |
| Ethnic/embroidered sets | HS 6211 | ~17% |
Canada-India Trade — FTA Update
Canada and India have been in FTA negotiations (CETA-style deal) since 2022. Negotiations paused in 2023 due to diplomatic tensions but resumed in 2024. A concluded deal could reduce or eliminate garment duties — making Indian manufacturing even more attractive for Canadian brands. Monitor CBSA and Global Affairs Canada for updates.
Shipping: India to Canada
✈️ Air Freight
- IGI Delhi → Toronto (YYZ): 4–6 days
- IGI Delhi → Vancouver (YVR): 4–5 days
- Cost: ~CAD $7–$12 per kg
🚢 Sea Freight
- JNPT Mumbai → Vancouver: 22–28 days
- JNPT Mumbai → Halifax/Montreal: 28–35 days
- Cost: LCL from CAD $120/CBM
Importing to Australia — Key Facts
Import Duties
Australia applies a 5% tariff on most garments from India — one of the lowest rates among major garment importing countries. The Australia-India ECTA (signed April 2022) is progressively reducing tariffs further. GST at 10% applies on importation for shipments over AUD $1,000 and is reclaimable for registered businesses.
| Product | Australia Rate (MFN) | ECTA Rate (India) |
|---|---|---|
| Knitted garments | 5% | Reducing to 0% by 2026 |
| Woven garments | 5% | Reducing to 0% by 2026 |
| Nightwear | 5% | Reducing to 0% by 2026 |
| Children's garments | 5% | Reducing to 0% by 2026 |
Australia is moving towards zero tariff on Indian garments under ECTA — making it one of the most attractive markets for Indian-manufactured fashion brands. Confirm current phase-in rates with the Australian Border Force or your customs broker.
Shipping: India to Australia
✈️ Air Freight
- IGI Delhi → Sydney (SYD): 3–5 days
- IGI Delhi → Melbourne (MEL): 3–5 days
- Cost: ~AUD $6–$11 per kg
🚢 Sea Freight
- JNPT Mumbai → Melbourne: 18–23 days
- JNPT Mumbai → Sydney: 18–24 days
- Cost: LCL from AUD $110/CBM
Documents Required for Both Countries
- Commercial Invoice — product details, value in AUD/CAD or USD, HS codes, country of origin, Incoterms
- Packing List — carton count, gross/net weights, dimensions
- Bill of Lading (sea) / Airway Bill (air)
- Certificate of Origin — confirms Made in India
- Insurance Certificate — recommended for all shipments
We provide all of these documents with every international shipment. Your customs broker in Canada (CBSA licensed) or Australia (ABF licensed) files the import declaration on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the import duties on clothing from India to Canada?
Canada applies MFN (Most Favoured Nation) tariff rates on Indian garments. Rates vary by product — typically 17–18% for knitted garments (HS Chapter 61) and 17–18% for woven garments (HS Chapter 62). Canada and India have been in Free Trade Agreement negotiations — a concluded deal could significantly reduce these rates. Always verify the current rate for your specific HS code with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) or a licensed customs broker.
What are the import duties on clothing from India to Australia?
Australia currently applies a 5% tariff on most garments imported from India under the standard MFN rate. Australia-India relations are strong and an FTA (ECTA — Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement) was signed in 2022, with garment tariff reductions phasing in. Your customs broker can confirm the current applicable rate for your specific product.
How long does shipping from India to Australia take?
Air freight from IGI Delhi to Sydney (SYD) or Melbourne (MEL) takes approximately 3–5 days. Sea freight from JNPT Mumbai to Melbourne or Sydney takes approximately 18–24 days, making Australia one of the faster sea freight routes from India.
How long does shipping from India to Canada take?
Air freight from IGI Delhi to Toronto (YYZ) or Vancouver (YVR) takes approximately 4–6 days. Sea freight from JNPT Mumbai to Vancouver takes approximately 22–28 days. Sea freight to Toronto (via Halifax or Montreal) takes approximately 28–35 days.
Sourcing for a Canadian or Australian Brand?
We ship to Canada and Australia regularly. Low MOQ from 200 pieces. Full export documentation included.
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