28 August, 2026
Yes, Ayurvedic products shipped from India to Europe generally go through customs clearance because India is outside the European Union (EU). When an Ayurvedic product enters an EU country, customs authorities may require an import declaration and can check the product, its value, classification, documentation, and applicable restrictions before releasing it.
For customers ordering Ayurvedic products from India to Europe, the exact customs requirements depend on what the product is. Ayurvedic herbs, herbal supplements, oils, powders, cosmetics and traditional Ayurvedic medicines may fall under different customs classifications and regulatory categories. The EU's Access2Markets guidance notes that herbal products can be classified according to their purpose, ingredients and form, with different tariff and non-tariff requirements potentially applying.
When your Ayurvedic parcel arrives in Europe, the carrier or customs representative may submit the required customs declaration. Customs authorities can assess the product description, customs value, quantity, tariff classification and country of origin. Depending on the shipment, import VAT, customs duty or other charges may apply. The EU's TARIC database provides information on applicable tariffs, restrictions and other import measures.
For online shoppers, accurate documentation is especially important. A commercial invoice or appropriate purchase documentation should clearly identify the products and their value. Some products may also require additional certificates or documentation depending on their ingredients and intended use.
Potentially, yes. If an Ayurvedic product is considered a medicinal product rather than a food, supplement or cosmetic, additional EU or national requirements can apply. EU legislation applies to traditional herbal medicinal products, and medicinal products generally require appropriate authorisation before being placed on the EU market.
This means that customs clearance does not automatically mean that every Ayurvedic medicine can legally enter or be sold in Europe. Product classification and the rules of the destination country matter.
If you are ordering Ayurvedic products from India to Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Sweden or another European destination, choose an international seller experienced in Ayurvedic products shipping outside India. Providing accurate product descriptions, invoices, ingredient information and shipment details can help reduce unnecessary customs delays.
Also remember that EU customs rules can change. From 1 July 2026, the EU introduced a temporary €3 customs duty for certain low-value parcels imported from outside the EU, based on tariff classification.
