India is the world’s largest exporter of natural menthol and cornmint oil. Between 2022 and 2025, UN Comtrade records Indian exports of menthol (HS 2906 11) to more than 110 countries, and of mint oils (HS 3301 24 and 3301 25) to more than 100. This checklist covers what a first-time importer needs.
1. Classify the product
| Product | HS code (6-digit) |
|---|---|
| Menthol crystals, powder, flakes | 2906 11 |
| Peppermint oil (Mentha piperita) | 3301 24 |
| Cornmint, spearmint, DMO and other mint oils | 3301 25 |
| Mint terpenes | 3301 90 |
| Natural isolates | By chemical family, e.g. menthone 2914 29, linalool 2905 22 |
National tariff lines add further digits; confirm the duty rate with your customs broker.
2. Agree the specification
Name the grade (food, USP, BP/EP, JP), the key limits and the test methods. Ask for a sample with its Certificate of Analysis, and test it in your own lab before you contract.
3. Documents to expect
- Certificate of Analysis for each batch
- Safety Data Sheet and technical data sheet
- Commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading or air waybill
- Certificate of Origin; a preferential certificate where India has a trade agreement with your country (for example ASEAN, Japan, Korea, the UAE, Australia, Mauritius or the EFTA states)
- Halal and Kosher certificates where your market requires them
- REACH confirmation for L-menthol into the EU
4. Packing
Menthol crystals and powder usually travel in 25 kg fibre drums with food-grade liners; oils in 180 kg GI drums or 25 kg aluminium cans. Menthol is not classed as dangerous goods for sea freight in most cases, but check the SDS for the specific product.
5. Incoterms and transit
Most Indian exporters quote FOB Nhava Sheva or Mundra, or CIF your port. Indicative sea transit is about a week to the Gulf, two to three weeks to East Asia and Europe, three to five weeks to West Africa and the Americas. Each market page lists ports and indicative transit for that country.
6. Price risk
Menthol and mint oil prices follow the Indian crop. N S Mint hedges at the moment a contract is signed, locking the agreed price and quantity for the contract period.
Request a quote with your grade, quantity and port.
