Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is a key way for global companies to enter the Indian market. For foreign subsidiaries operating in India, knowing the FDI limits across various sectors is vital to ensure compliance and smooth business operations. This guide provides a clear, updated overview of sector-wise FDI policies in India.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) means investment by a foreign entity in an Indian company, giving ownership or control rights.
Why it matters:
FDI in India is governed under:
All FDI must follow India’s sector-specific rules, including entry routes (automatic or approval-based) and caps.
You can refer to updated policies at DPIIT and RBI.
Entry Route | Meaning | Permission Authority |
---|---|---|
Automatic Route | No prior approval needed | Report to RBI after investment |
Government Route | Prior approval required | Approval via DPIIT and relevant ministry |
Refer to DPIIT’s official guidelines for detailed procedures.
Sector | FDI Limit | Entry Route |
---|---|---|
Agriculture & Plantation | 100% | Automatic |
Mining | 100% | Automatic |
Manufacturing | 100% | Automatic |
Telecom | 100% (above 49% requires approval) | Both |
Defense | 74% (Automatic), 100% (Govt route) | Both |
Pharmaceuticals (Greenfield) | 100% | Automatic |
Pharmaceuticals (Brownfield) | 74% (Automatic), >74% Govt | Both |
E-commerce (B2B only) | 100% | Automatic |
Retail (Single-brand) | 100% (over 49% with conditions) | Both |
Retail (Multi-brand) | Up to 51% | Government |
Financial Services | 100% | Automatic |
Civil Aviation (Air Transport) | 100% (with conditions) | Both |
Print Media | 26% | Government |
Note: Always verify from DPIIT FDI Policy.
For example, a UK fin-tech company entering India must check if its services fall under financial services or technology. Lending functions may require NBFC licenses, affecting FDI eligibility.
Similarly, IKEA, a foreign retail brand, had to comply with Indian sourcing norms to allow FDI beyond 49% in single-brand retail.
Understanding FDI limits in India helps foreign subsidiaries operate without legal issues. Different sectors have distinct ownership caps and approval routes. Staying informed through official sources like RBI and DPIIT ensures smoother investment and business growth.
How to start a Subsidiary Company in India?
Foreign Subsidiary Company Compliance in India
Branch Office vs Indian Subsidiary
Shareholding rights of a subsidiary company
100% under the automatic route.
Yes, for FDI above 49%, government approval is needed.
Yes, up to 51% under government route with conditions.
They must file online via RBI’s FIRMS portal.
Non-compliance can lead to fines, fund blocking, or company deregistration.
Agriculture, manufacturing, and B2B e-commerce are examples.
No, legal services are currently not open to FDI.
74% via automatic route; beyond 74% requires government approval.
Yes, through Form FC-GPR within 30 days of share allotment.
Visit DPIIT and RBI websites for official updates.
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