List of Essential Oils Prohibited for Export From India

Many items can be exported from India to the United States, as the two countries enjoy an open trade partnership. In general, items exported from India are clear from income tax in the U.S. and can receive higher royalty payments of 8 percent, as opposed to 5 percent on domestic sales. However, there are some items that are prohibited from export due to potential shortages in the domestic market or to protect the natural resources in the exporting country. The list of prohibited items includes some essential oils.

Animal or Vegetable Oils

• Any oils that originate in animals, including tallow, fat or any essential oil produced from an animal, may not be exported from India. The only exception to this rule is fish oil. Vegetable oils are also prohibited in amounts over 5 kgs. This includes coconut oil, linseed oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, sesame seed oil, ground nut oil and soybean oil.

Sandalwood Oil

• Sandalwood in any form, including sandalwood oil, is included on the prohibited export list. Only fully finished wooden crafts from sandalwood are allowed.

Seed oil

• Seeds are on the restricted export list. This includes castor seeds, linseeds, ornamental plant seeds, all oilseeds and saffron seeds. Check with your export agency regarding regulations on restricted exports, including seeds.