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HS Code 9503 — Toys, Games & Children's Playthings: Import Duty in India (2026)

HS code 9503 covers toys, games, and children's playthings. Plastic toys attract India's highest BCD at 70%, resulting in approximately 104% total effective duty. Board games face a lower 20% BCD with approximately 34% effective duty.

Quick answer: HS code 9503 covers plastic toys, dolls, toy vehicles, and board games. BCD: 70% plastic toys / 20% board games. IGST: 18% toys / 12% board games. Total effective duty: approximately 104% for plastic toys and 34% for board games. BIS CRS under IS 9873 is mandatory for toys.

What Products Fall Under HS Code 9503?

HS code 95030090 covers plastic toys, dolls, and toy vehicles. 95049090 covers board games and card games. The Toys Quality Control Order mandates BIS CRS for all toys marketed for children under 14 years of age. This includes electronic toys, plush toys, and educational playsets.

What is the difference between HS code 9503 and similar codes?

Sports equipment (bicycles, balls) uses HS 9506. Video game consoles use HS 9504. Adult collectibles and models may be classified under HS 8306 or 3926 if not primarily for children. The intended user age is critical for classification under 9503.

Related resources: find HS codes for other products, check BIS requirements for toys.

Customs Duty Calculation for HS Code 9503: Worked Example

Total effective duty on CIF value = BCD + SWS (10% of BCD) + IGST on (CIF + BCD + SWS). For HS code 9503, BCD is 70% and IGST is 18%.

Duty ComponentRateOn ₹50,000 CIF (100 toy units)
Basic Customs Duty (BCD)70%₹35,000
Social Welfare Surcharge (SWS)10% of BCD₹3,500
IGST18%₹15,930
Total Customs Duty~108.9% of CIF₹54,430

Note: No anti-dumping duty applies to toys. However, customs closely scrutinizes toy imports for correct classification and BIS compliance.

Can I reduce import duty on HS code 9503 goods?

Toys do not qualify for EPCG or project import concessions. Some ASEAN-origin toys may qualify for reduced BCD under the ASEAN-India FTA if they meet rules of origin requirements. Verify with your CHA before ordering from Vietnam or Indonesia.

Use our import duty calculator to compute exact landed cost for your shipment.

Compliance Requirements for Importing HS Code 9503 Goods

BIS CRS registration under IS 9873 is mandatory for all toys under India's Toys Quality Control Order.

All toys imported to India must have BIS CRS registration under IS 9873. Registration is product-specific and requires safety testing at a BIS-accredited laboratory. The certificate covers specific models/SKUs.

BIS toy registration typically takes 3–6 months, including lab testing (4–8 weeks) and BIS review. Importers must apply before placing orders to avoid delays.

Importing toys without BIS CRS results in customs detention and potential destruction of goods. DIY craft kits and hobby items may not be classified as toys — verify with your CHA.

Need help with compliance? check your compliance requirements or read our customs clearance guide.

How to Import HS Code 9503 Goods to India: Process Overview

Typical lead time: 4–7 months including BIS CRS (3–6 months) plus shipping.

  • Obtain IEC code and GST registration
  • Apply for BIS CRS under IS 9873 for each toy model/SKU
  • Complete lab testing at BIS-accredited laboratory
  • Book sea freight (LCL or FCL from China/Vietnam)
  • File Bill of Entry on ICEGATE with BIS licence number
  • Customs clearance at ICD Whitefield or Chennai Port

Our customs clearance guide explains each step in detail. For Bengaluru-bound cargo, we clear at BLR airport (6–12 hours for green channel air freight) or ICD Whitefield (2–4 days for sea freight).

Frequently Asked Questions — HS Code 9503

What is the customs duty on toys imported to India?

Plastic toys and dolls (HS 95030090) attract BCD of 70%, SWS 7% (10% of BCD), and IGST 18% on the duty-inclusive value. Total effective duty is approximately 104% of CIF value — meaning duties exceed the goods value. Board games (HS 95049090) attract a lower BCD of 20%.

Do toys need BIS certification to import to India?

Yes — BIS CRS registration is mandatory for all toys under India's Toys Quality Control Order. Registration is product-specific and requires safety testing at a BIS-accredited laboratory against IS 9873 standards. Import without BIS CRS results in detention and destruction.

How long does BIS toy certification take?

BIS toy registration typically takes 3–6 months, including lab testing (4–8 weeks) and BIS review. The certificate covers specific models/SKUs. Importers must apply before placing orders to avoid delays.

Are there any toys exempt from BIS CRS?

DIY craft kits, hobby items, and certain educational materials may not be classified as toys under the Toys QCO. However, any product primarily marketed for children under 14 is likely covered. Verify classification with your CHA before importing.

With 70% BCD on toys, is it viable to import from China to India?

The 70% BCD makes direct import of finished toys expensive — but it's still done for premium or niche products not manufactured in India. Many toy importers source from ASEAN countries (Vietnam, Indonesia) which have FTA concessions under ASEAN-India FTA (lower BCD).

Import HS Code 9503 Goods to India

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