What it is
Carbon made by slow-burning wood, bamboo or coconut shell with little air. Used for barbecue and tandoor fuel, activated carbon, incense and soil improvement.
Lump charcoal and briquettesCoconut shell charcoal (for activated carbon)Bamboo charcoal
Where imports come from
- Vietnam — US$ 11.08 million of imports under HS 4402 in 2025-26.
- Sri Lanka — US$ 6.1 million of imports under HS 4402 in 2025-26.
- Philippines — US$ 4.44 million of imports under HS 4402 in 2025-26.
Rules before you buy or sell
- Bamboo charcoal export was listed as 'prohibited' as of March 2022 (KVIC asked the government to lift it); check the current DGFT export policy before exporting.
- Making charcoal from forest wood needs State Forest Department permission.
Storage and handling
Store dry in closed bags away from flame; fresh charcoal can self-ignite if packed hot.
Businesses that use it
Activated Charcoal Body Wash →Charcoal Face Wash →Barbecue Tandoori Grill Manufacturing →Agarbatti (Incense Stick) Making →