Does corrugated paper cartons, boxes and cases qualify for India–UAE CEPA?

Yes, if it meets the Annex 3B Product-Specific Rule "CTSH + VA 40% (CEPA Annex 3B Product-Specific Rule; tariff-shift AND value addition both required).": it must BOTH change tariff classification (CTSH) AND add at least 40% regional value content — both conditions are required, not either/or.

What proof is needed at import?

A preferential Certificate of Origin filed through eCoO 2.0, presented at customs before clearance. Without it, the 10% MFN duty applies.

Corrugated paper cartons, boxes and cases (HS 48191010) under India–UAE CEPA

HS 48191010 · CARTONS · Rules of Origin & preferential rate

Data last updated: 20 August 2026 · MFN duty & IGST verified against ICEGATE (Indian Customs EDI). Rules of Origin per CEPA Annex 3B. Verify your exact HS line before filing.

CEPA eligible: Yes
Value addition (RVC): 40%
Tariff-classification change: CTSH
MFN → CEPA basic duty: 10% → 0%

Rule of Origin (CEPA Annex 3B, primary source): CTSH + VA 40% (CEPA Annex 3B Product-Specific Rule; tariff-shift AND value addition both required).

Qualifying under the Rules of Origin

To claim the CEPA preference on corrugated paper cartons, boxes and cases (HS 48191010), the goods must qualify as UAE-originating: the Product-Specific Rule (Annex 3B) is "CTSH + VA 40% (CEPA Annex 3B Product-Specific Rule; tariff-shift AND value addition both required).": the goods must undergo a change of tariff sub-heading (CTSH) AND add at least 40% regional value content — both conditions, not either/or. Corrugated boxes are the workhorse of Indian packaging, consumed by e-commerce, FMCG, agriculture and manufacturing. CEPA removes the 10% basic duty. Corrugated conversion adds real value, so the 40% regional-value-content rule is more attainable here than for many categories — provided the UAE converts rather than trans-ships finished boxes. Freight is the dominant cost for empty cartons, which limits long-haul economics and makes duty secondary in most sourcing decisions. Where import does make sense, the origin documentation is straightforward: confirm the converting plant location. A valid Certificate of Origin filed through the eCoO 2.0 system must accompany the shipment; without it, customs charges the 10% MFN rate instead of the preference.

Check your own figures in the Rules of Origin (RVC) qualifier.

Frequently asked questions

Does corrugated paper cartons, boxes and cases qualify for India–UAE CEPA?: Yes, if it meets the Annex 3B Product-Specific Rule "CTSH + VA 40% (CEPA Annex 3B Product-Specific Rule; tariff-shift AND value addition both required).": it must BOTH change tariff classification (CTSH) AND add at least 40% regional value content — both conditions are required, not either/or.
What is the Rule of Origin for corrugated paper cartons, boxes and cases?: Per CEPA Annex 3B: CTSH + VA 40% (CEPA Annex 3B Product-Specific Rule; tariff-shift AND value addition both required).. RVC% = [(FOB − value of non-originating materials) / FOB] × 100 (FOB basis).
What proof is needed at import?: A preferential Certificate of Origin filed through eCoO 2.0, presented at customs before clearance. Without it, the 10% MFN duty applies.