Indomethacin HS Code Analysis (2026)
India exports Indomethacin under 19 distinct HS code classifications, representing a total trade value of $9.7M across 1,296 shipments. The dominant classification is HS 30049099 (Other medicaments, put up in measured doses or for retail sale), accounting for 47.1% of all Indomethacin trade at $4.5M. HS 30049065 (Anti-rheumatic preparations, put up for retail sale) follows at 46.7% ($4.5M). The top 5 HS codes together account for 98.7% of total Indomethacin trade from India. The average transaction value is $7448. Key importing markets include United States, Canada, Uganda. Leading exporters include HETERO LABS LIMITED and GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED. Data sourced from Indian Customs (DGFT) shipping bill records.

Top Indomethacin HS Code Classifications
Ranked by trade value from Indian Customs (DGFT) data
All Indomethacin HS Code Classifications
HS 30049099
Other medicaments, put up in measured doses or for retail sale · 47.1% of Indomethacin trade
$4.5M
Trade Value
47.1%
Market Share
565
Transactions
$83.03
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30049065
Anti-rheumatic preparations, put up for retail sale · 46.7% of Indomethacin trade
$4.5M
Trade Value
46.7%
Market Share
437
Transactions
$7.27
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30049072
Sedatives, tranquillizers, anti-depressants (retail) · 2.7% of Indomethacin trade
$258.3K
Trade Value
2.7%
Market Share
9
Transactions
$0.38
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30049069
Other therapeutic/prophylactic medicaments (retail) · 1.4% of Indomethacin trade
$133.5K
Trade Value
1.4%
Market Share
31
Transactions
$0.52
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30
Pharmaceutical product (Chapter 30) · 0.9% of Indomethacin trade
$83.6K
Trade Value
0.9%
Market Share
2
Transactions
$5842.83
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30049065
Other medicaments of mixed or unmixed products (retail) · 0.8% of Indomethacin trade
$73.2K
Trade Value
0.8%
Market Share
9
Transactions
$8.19
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30042099
Medicaments containing antibiotics (retail) · 0.2% of Indomethacin trade
$15.7K
Trade Value
0.2%
Market Share
1
Transactions
$5.48
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30049029
Other analgesics and antipyretics, put up for retail sale · 0.1% of Indomethacin trade
$14.2K
Trade Value
0.1%
Market Share
187
Transactions
$0.50
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30049079
Other CNS acting medicaments (retail) · 0.1% of Indomethacin trade
$7.4K
Trade Value
0.1%
Market Share
2
Transactions
$0.97
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30049099
Other medicaments of mixed or unmixed products (retail) · 0.1% of Indomethacin trade
$7.3K
Trade Value
0.1%
Market Share
11
Transactions
$1.77
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30045090
Other medicaments containing vitamins or provitamins (retail) · 0.0% of Indomethacin trade
$3.0K
Trade Value
0.0%
Market Share
4
Transactions
$0.25
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30049039
Other medicaments of mixed or unmixed products (retail) · 0.0% of Indomethacin trade
$1.0K
Trade Value
0.0%
Market Share
1
Transactions
$6.72
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30045010
Medicaments containing Vitamin A (retail) · 0.0% of Indomethacin trade
$647
Trade Value
0.0%
Market Share
7
Transactions
$1.30
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30043990
Medicaments containing other hormones (retail) · 0.0% of Indomethacin trade
$551
Trade Value
0.0%
Market Share
17
Transactions
$7156.01
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30041090
Other medicaments containing penicillins or streptomycins (retail) · 0.0% of Indomethacin trade
$135
Trade Value
0.0%
Market Share
7
Transactions
$1.13
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30042033
Medicaments containing antibiotics (retail) · 0.0% of Indomethacin trade
$94
Trade Value
0.0%
Market Share
2
Transactions
$0.10
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30039090
Other medicaments of mixed constituents (not put up for retail sale) · 0.0% of Indomethacin trade
$62
Trade Value
0.0%
Market Share
2
Transactions
$30.96
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30049049
Other gastrointestinal preparations (retail) · 0.0% of Indomethacin trade
$24
Trade Value
0.0%
Market Share
1
Transactions
$0.24
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
HS 30042039
Medicaments containing antibiotics (retail) · 0.0% of Indomethacin trade
$9
Trade Value
0.0%
Market Share
1
Transactions
$0.09
Avg Unit Price
Common Product Descriptions:
Top Suppliers
Where Indomethacin is Exported — Geographic HS Code Analysis
Import destinations for Indomethacin from India, by trade value
India exports Indomethacin to 10+ countries under 19 HS code classifications. The largest import destination is United States ($6.4M), followed by Canada ($405.8K) and Uganda ($305.3K). These markets collectively account for the majority of India's Indomethacin pharmaceutical exports.
| Rank | Country | Trade Value | Market Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | United States | $6.4M | 66.1% |
| #2 | Canada | $405.8K | 4.2% |
| #3 | Uganda | $305.3K | 3.2% |
| #4 | Chile | $268.6K | 2.8% |
| #5 | Tajikistan | $226.3K | 2.3% |
| #6 | Kenya | $212.5K | 2.2% |
| #7 | Ethiopia | $169.0K | 1.8% |
| #8 | Costa Rica | $132.8K | 1.4% |
| #9 | Somalia | $119.1K | 1.2% |
| #10 | Mauritius | $117.3K | 1.2% |
Pharmaceutical buyers in these markets import Indomethacin primarily under HS code 30049099 (Other medicaments, put up in measured doses or for retail sale). Import duties, regulatory requirements, and product registration vary by destination country. Contact TransData Nexus for country-specific import intelligence.
Understanding Indomethacin HS Codes
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized system of names and numbers to classify traded products. Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), it is used by over 200 countries for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and regulatory compliance. Each HS code is a 6-digit number (extended to 8 digits in India's Customs Tariff Schedule) that precisely identifies a product category.
How Indomethacin HS Codes Work
Indomethacin falls under Chapter 30 (Pharmaceutical Products) of the Harmonized System. The 19 codes used for Indomethacin exports span multiple headings:
- Heading 3003 — Medicaments not put up in measured doses or for retail sale (bulk APIs, intermediates)
- Heading 3004 — Medicaments put up in measured doses or for retail sale (finished formulations)
- Heading 3005 — Wadding, gauze, bandages for medical use
- Heading 3006 — Pharmaceutical goods (sutures, reagents, dental cements)
The most significant distinction for Indomethacin is between HS 3003 (bulk/unmeasured) and HS 3004 (retail-ready). HS 3004 codes account for the majority of Indomethacin trade (including the dominant code 30049099 at 47.1%). The 8-digit Indian Customs Tariff code further specifies the therapeutic class — for example, HS 30049099 refers to "Other medicaments, put up in measured doses or for retail sale".
Regulatory & Compliance — Indomethacin Export Classification
Correct HS code classification is critical for Indomethacin exports from India. Misclassification can result in customs delays, incorrect duty assessment, and regulatory penalties. Key compliance considerations for pharmaceutical stakeholders:
Import Duty Classification
Indomethacin import duties vary significantly by HS code and destination country. HS 3004 (finished formulations) typically attracts different duty rates than HS 3003 (bulk APIs). Many developing countries offer preferential rates for essential medicines including Indomethacin.
DGFT & Indian Customs Requirements
Indian exporters must declare the correct 8-digit ITC-HS code on shipping bills filed with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Indomethacin exports require Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) approval and must comply with Drug & Cosmetics Act regulations.
WHO Prequalification
For international procurement (UNICEF, Global Fund), Indomethacin products must meet WHO Prequalification standards. WHO PQ status affects which HS codes are eligible for preferential procurement pricing and duty exemptions in recipient countries.
Country-Specific Registration
Each destination country requires product registration before import. Key markets like United States and Canada have specific pharmaceutical regulatory bodies that must approve the product before customs clearance.
Related Analgesics & Antipyretics — Products Sharing Similar HS Codes
Other products in the Analgesics & Antipyretics therapeutic category that may share HS code classifications with Indomethacin
Products in the Analgesics & Antipyretics category (Pain relievers and fever reducers) often share HS codes under Chapter 30, particularly heading 3004 (medicaments put up for retail sale). Comparing HS code distributions across related products helps identify classification patterns and trade route similarities.
Tariff Schedule — Top Markets
TransData Nexus Indomethacin HS code trade compliance intelligence
1Tariff Schedule — Top Markets
Indomethacin, classified under HS code 30049099, is subject to varying Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rates and preferential treatments across key importing countries:
- United States: The MFN tariff rate for HS 30049099 is 0%. Under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), India benefits from duty-free access for eligible pharmaceutical products, including Indomethacin.
- Canada: The MFN tariff rate for HS 30049099 is 0%. Canada and India do not have a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that provides additional tariff reductions for pharmaceutical products.
- Uganda: As a member of the East African Community (EAC), Uganda applies the EAC Common External Tariff. Essential medicines, including Indomethacin, are often exempt from import duties to ensure affordability and accessibility.
- Chile: The MFN tariff rate for HS 30049099 is 6%. However, under the India-Chile Preferential Trade Agreement, certain pharmaceutical products may enjoy reduced tariffs.
- Tajikistan: The MFN tariff rate for HS 30049099 is 0%. Tajikistan does not have a specific FTA with India affecting pharmaceutical imports.
- Kenya: As part of the EAC, Kenya applies the EAC Common External Tariff. Essential medicines like Indomethacin are typically exempt from import duties.
- Ethiopia: The MFN tariff rate for HS 30049099 is 5%. Ethiopia does not have an FTA with India that provides preferential rates for pharmaceutical products.
- Costa Rica: The MFN tariff rate for HS 30049099 is 0%. Costa Rica and India do not have an FTA affecting pharmaceutical imports.
It's important to consult the respective national customs authorities or the World Trade Organization (WTO) tariff databases for the most current and detailed information, as tariff rates and trade agreements are subject to change.
Classification Disputes & Misclassification Risks
TransData Nexus Indomethacin HS code trade compliance intelligence
1Classification Disputes & Misclassification Risks
Indomethacin can be classified under HS code 3003 or 3004, depending on its form and packaging:
- HS 3003: Applies to medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, not put up in measured doses or forms for retail sale.
- HS 3004: Pertains to medicaments in measured doses or forms for retail sale.
Common misclassification errors include:
- Classifying bulk Indomethacin intended for further processing under HS 3004 instead of HS 3003.
- Misidentifying retail-packaged Indomethacin as bulk, leading to incorrect HS code application.
Such misclassifications can result in customs penalties, including fines and delays in shipment clearance. The World Customs Organization (WCO) and national customs authorities have issued rulings emphasizing the importance of accurate classification based on product form and packaging. Our data indicates that 47.1% of Indomethacin shipments are classified under HS 30049099, highlighting the prevalence of this code for retail-packaged forms.
Pharmacopoeia & Quality Standards
TransData Nexus Indomethacin HS code trade compliance intelligence
1Pharmacopoeia & Quality Standards
Indomethacin is recognized in several major pharmacopoeias, each specifying quality standards:
- United States Pharmacopeia (USP): Indomethacin monograph includes identification tests, assay procedures, and impurity limits. The assay requires Indomethacin content to be between 98.0% and 102.0% on a dried basis.
- British Pharmacopoeia (BP): Provides similar standards, including identification, assay, and impurity testing, ensuring consistency in quality.
- European Pharmacopoeia (EP): Aligns with BP standards, detailing methods for identification, assay, and impurity control.
- Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP): Specifies quality requirements for Indomethacin, including purity and assay limits, to ensure therapeutic efficacy.
Quality control tests include:
- Purity/Assay Requirements: Ensuring the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) content meets specified limits.
- Dissolution Testing: Assessing the rate and extent of drug release from the dosage form, critical for bioavailability.
- Stability Testing: Conducted per International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines, considering climatic zones to ensure product stability over its shelf life.
Adherence to these pharmacopoeial standards is essential for regulatory compliance and ensuring the safety and efficacy of Indomethacin products in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions — Indomethacin HS Codes
Common questions about Indomethacin trade classification, answered with data from Indian Customs records.
What is the HS code for Indomethacin exports from India?
The most commonly used HS code for Indomethacin exports from India is 30049099 (Other medicaments, put up in measured doses or for retail sale), which accounts for 47.1% of all Indomethacin trade valued at $4.5M. In total, India exports Indomethacin under 19 distinct HS code classifications.
How many HS codes are used for Indomethacin trade?
Indomethacin is exported from India under 19 different HS code classifications, covering a total trade value of $9.7M across 1,296 shipments. The top 5 HS codes account for 98.7% of total trade.
What is HS code 30049099?
HS code 30049099 refers to "Other medicaments, put up in measured doses or for retail sale" under Chapter 30 (Pharmaceutical Products) of the Harmonized System. For Indomethacin, this code covers $4.5M in trade value with 565 transactions, 93 suppliers, and 148 buyers across 72 countries. The average unit price under this code is $83.03.
What is the difference between HS 30049099 and 30049065 for Indomethacin?
HS 30049099 (Other medicaments, put up in measured doses or for retail sale) accounts for 47.1% of Indomethacin trade ($4.5M) with an average unit price of $83.03, while HS 30049065 (Anti-rheumatic preparations, put up for retail sale) covers 46.7% ($4.5M) at $7.27 per unit. HS 30049099 involves 93 suppliers and 148 buyers, compared to 103 suppliers and 142 buyers for HS 30049065.
How much Indomethacin is exported under HS code 30049099?
Under HS code 30049099, India exports $4.5M worth of Indomethacin, representing 47.1% of total Indomethacin trade. This involves 565 shipments from 93 Indian exporters to 148 buyers in 72 countries.
Which countries import the most Indomethacin from India?
The top importing countries for Indomethacin from India are United States, Canada, Uganda. The leading importer United States accounts for $6.4M in trade value. In total, Indomethacin is exported to buyers across multiple countries under 19 HS code classifications.
Who are the top Indomethacin exporters from India?
The leading Indomethacin exporters from India include HETERO LABS LIMITED ($1.8M), GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED ($1.2M), HETERO LABS LIMITED ($1.2M). These suppliers export across multiple HS code classifications with a combined trade value of $9.7M.
Which Indomethacin HS code has the highest unit price?
HS code 30043990 has the highest average unit price at $7156.01 per unit for Indomethacin exports. This compares to the overall market average of $7447.85 per transaction. The most traded code HS 30049099 averages $83.03 per unit.
Official References & Regulatory Resources
HS code classifications follow the WCO Harmonized System. Verify tariff rates with your national customs authority.
Research Methodology & Data Transparency
Suresh Sormare
Verified AuthorPharmaceutical Export-Import Analyst & Trade Intelligence Expert
Suresh Sormare is a pharmaceutical export-import analyst with deep expertise in Indian Customs (DGFT) data, HS code classification, and global pharmaceutical supply chains. His analysis covers 10M+ shipment records across 150+ countries and is used by manufacturers, procurement agencies, and trade consultants worldwide. Suresh specializes in identifying verified suppliers and buyers from customs records, mapping bilateral pharmaceutical trade corridors, analyzing tariff structures and regulatory frameworks across 170+ destination markets, and benchmarking competitive positioning for finished pharmaceutical formulations. His methodology combines granular customs transaction data with regulatory intelligence from FDA, EMA, WHO, CDSCO, and 40+ national drug authorities to deliver actionable trade insights for the pharmaceutical formulations sector.
linkedin.com/in/sureshsormarePrimary Data Source
All trade data is sourced from Indian Customs (DGFT) official shipping bill records — the authoritative government database for India's pharmaceutical trade. Each verified record contains exporter name, consignee (buyer) name, detailed product description, quantity, declared FOB value (USD), port of loading, destination country, and shipment date.
Analysis Methodology
- 1.HS Code Classification: 19 HS code classifications identified for Indomethacin using Indian Customs Tariff (ITC-HS) mapping.
- 2.Product Categorization: Products under each HS code matched from 5 Indian exporters using DGFT product description fields.
- 3.Trade Value Aggregation: Total trade value aggregated from 1,296 individual shipping bill records. Values are FOB in USD.
- 4.Country Breakdown: Exports distributed across 10 destination markets with per-country value and shipment analysis.
Government-Sourced Data
Official DGFT customs records
Transparent Methodology
Calculations fully disclosed above
1,296 Verified Shipments
19 HS codes analyzed
Expert-Reviewed
By pharmaceutical trade specialists