Japan Market Access — Now Duty Free
Japan imports Indian castor oil for industrial applications, particularly 12-HSA for high-performance greases used in automotive and precision manufacturing. The Japanese cosmetics industry also sources pharmaceutical-grade castor oil. Japan is the 5th largest importer of Indian castor oil.
🇯🇵 India-Japan CEPA: Preferential Tariff
Under the India-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (active since 2011), many agricultural commodities enjoy reduced tariffs. Japan is a premium market that values quality and consistency above price.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Moisture | Maximum 0.5% |
| Acid Value | 175-185 |
| Iodine Value | Maximum 5 |
| Color | White to off-white flakes |
| Melting Point | 76-80°C |
| HS Code | 1515.30 |
| Import Duty (Japan) | 0-10% (phased reduction) |
12-HSA (12-Hydroxystearic Acid) — For Japan Industry
12-Hydroxystearic Acid is a saturated C18 fatty acid derived from hydrogenated castor oil. Available in flake and powder forms. Critical raw material for manufacturing lithium-based greases used in automotive and industrial applications. Also used as an activator and internal lubricant for natural and synthetic rubbers. India is a major global supplier of 12-HSA.
Shipping to Yokohama
- 20ft containers (16-18 MT) or 40ft containers (22-24 MT)
- Lead time: 16-20 days from Kandla to Yokohama
- Flexi-bags (18-20 MT), 200kg steel drums, or ISO tank containers (21-23 MT)
- Weekly sailings via major carriers
- Full documentation: Certificate of Origin (CEPA), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Phytosanitary Certificate, COA, JAS Compliance (if organic)
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Pricing & Value
With the India-Japan CEPA eliminating import duty, Japan buyers now save on landed cost compared to pre-FTA pricing. 12-Hydroxystearic Acid is a saturated C18 fatty acid derived from hydrogenated castor oil. Available in flake and powder forms. FOB Kandla pricing includes fumigation and phytosanitary certification. Volume discounts available for quarterly contracts. JPY or USD pricing available. TT in USD. LC through Japanese banks (MUFG, SMBC, Mizuho) accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the India-Japan CEPA affect castor oil import duty to Japan?
Under the India-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (active since 2011), many agricultural commodities enjoy reduced tariffs. Japan is a premium market that values quality and consistency above price. Certificate of Origin per India-Japan CEPA rules required for preferential tariff.
What is the difference between FSG and BSS grade castor oil?
FSG (First Special Grade) has lower acid value (max 1.0) and lighter color (Gardner 1-2) compared to BSS (British Standard Specification) which allows acid value up to 2.0 and Gardner color up to 3. FSG is preferred for pharmaceutical and cosmetic use. BSS is suitable for industrial applications.
What is the lead time to Yokohama?
16-20 days ocean transit from Kandla. Castor oil is shipped in flexi-bags inside 20ft containers (18-20 MT per container) or in ISO tank containers for larger volumes. Add 3-5 days for customs clearance.
Can you supply bulk castor oil in ISO tank containers?
Yes, we supply castor oil in 20ft ISO tank containers (21-23 MT per tank) for large-volume buyers. Also available in flexi-bags (18-20 MT per 20ft container), 200kg steel drums, and IBC containers (1000L).
What are your payment terms?
LC at sight, 30-60 day LC, CAD, and TT accepted. Castor oil pricing follows NCDEX/global commodity rates. We can offer price-lock contracts for up to 90 days. JPY or USD pricing available. TT in USD. LC through Japanese banks (MUFG, SMBC, Mizuho) accepted.
Do you provide REACH and MSDS documentation?
Yes, full REACH registration documentation, Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS), Certificate of Analysis (COA), and Certificate of Origin provided with every shipment. For EU imports, we also provide EUR.1 form for FTA preferential tariff.