Explore the latest trends, market data, and export insights for incense stick shipments to the USA. This guide highlights trade opportunities, top exporting countries, and essential HS code information to help you make smart export decisions.
🔹 Introduction
Incense sticks, or agarbatti as we call them in India, are deeply rooted in Indian tradition. But over the past few years, they’ve quietly made their way into American homes, yoga studios, meditation centers, and wellness shops. With the growing trend of mindfulness and holistic living in the USA, demand for naturally made incense has increased significantly.
India, being the global hub for incense stick manufacturing, holds a strong edge. For exporters, this is a great opportunity to tap into an unsaturated niche. This guide walks you through trends, HS codes, market opportunities, and how you can take your incense products global.
🔹 What is an Incense Stick?
Incense sticks are thin bamboo sticks rolled in a fragrant paste made of herbs, flowers, resins, and essential oils. Once lit, they release a soothing aroma and are used for:
➤ Meditation and yoga routines
➤ Religious and spiritual ceremonies
➤ Room freshening and ambiance
In the USA, incense has found its way into mainstream wellness culture. More people are switching to natural aromatics, and India’s hand-rolled incense fits that need perfectly.
🔹 Key Market Trends in the USA
| Market Driver | Description |
|---|---|
| Rise of mindfulness practices | Incense is widely used during yoga, meditation, and spiritual rituals |
| Demand for natural and handmade goods | Consumers prefer non-toxic, eco-friendly incense sticks |
| Growth in aromatherapy | Use of essential oils and calming scents is boosting incense popularity |
Between 2019 and 2024, incense stick imports from India to the USA rose by over 55%. Retailers in the US are looking for reliable exporters who can meet FDA labeling requirements and ensure consistency in scent and quality.
🔹 Top Exporting Countries
India dominates the incense stick market thanks to its variety, tradition, and pricing. Countries like Vietnam and China are growing but often rely on synthetic variants.
🔹 Opportunities
The U.S. market offers a number of high-potential areas for incense exporters:
➤ Rising interest in Ayurveda and Indian-origin wellness products
➤ Increased demand from yoga and spiritual communities
➤ Premium pricing in organic and handmade product segments
➤ Government incentives under India’s RoDTEP and Agri Export schemes
If you’re a new exporter, ensure that your packaging complies with FDA incense product guidance
For personalized help, you can connect with the Exim Data Hub team for trade support.
🔹 HS Code for Incense Sticks
Choosing the correct HS code is crucial for customs clearance and documentation. Here are some commonly used codes:
➤ 33074100 – Agarbatti and other odoriferous preparations which operate by burning
➤ 33074900 – Other room scenting preparations
➤ 44029010 – Raw bamboo (used in incense stick base)
➤ 96031000 – Stick holders and accessories
Always check your exact product type before finalizing the HS code. Misclassification can cause shipping delays or rejections.
🔹 How Exim Data Hub Helps Exporters
| Feature | Exporter Benefit |
|---|---|
| HS Code Intelligence | Helps you classify incense products correctly |
| Buyer/Seller Insights | Get contact details of verified U.S. incense importers |
| Forecast Reports | Understand pricing patterns and seasonal shipping cycles |
With Exim Data Hub, you gain more than just data—you gain clarity and direction in your export journey.
🔹 Conclusion
Exporting incense sticks from India to the USA is more than possible—it’s profitable. The demand is climbing, and India’s expertise in producing high-quality, natural incense gives you a competitive edge.
To succeed:
➤ Use the correct HS code
➤ Stay updated with U.S. import rules
➤ Build connections with verified buyers
➤ Offer premium eco-friendly packaging
Want to scale your incense export business? Exim Data Hub can guide you every step of the way.
🔹 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is certification required for exporting incense sticks to the USA?
Yes. Although not mandatory in all cases, proper labelling, fire hazard declarations, and material safety data sheets improve product acceptance.
Q2: What is the current incense stick market size in the USA?
As of 2024, the U.S. imported over $24 million worth of incense sticks annually—India being the lead contributor.
Q3: Can I export handmade incense sticks?
Yes, and they often fetch premium pricing, especially when labeled as organic or sustainable.
Q4: How can I find incense buyers in the USA?
Use EximDataHub.com to get verified importer data and export insights.
