CUSTOMS DUTIES: AFGHANISTAN TO BULGARIA

Overview of Customs Duties from Afghanistan to Bulgaria

Trade between Afghanistan and Bulgaria is subject to customs regulations established by Bulgaria's membership in the European Union Customs Union since 2007. As Afghanistan is not a member of the EU, goods exported from Afghanistan to Bulgaria are classified as imports from third countries and are subject to applicable EU tariff rates. Understanding these customs duties, documentation requirements, and regulatory frameworks is essential for successful international trade operations between these nations.

Bulgaria applies the integrated EU tariff system (TARIC) to all imports from non-EU countries, including Afghanistan. The customs clearance process requires proper documentation, compliance with EU standards, and adherence to import regulations. Exporters should be aware that tariff rates vary significantly depending on the Harmonized System (HS) code classification of their products.

General Duty Rates

Tariff rates for imports from countries outside the EU, including Afghanistan, range from 4 percent to 45 percent, depending on the product classification and HS code. The following table provides guidance on duty rates for common product categories:

Product Category	Typical Duty Rate Range	Notes
Industrial Machinery	4% - 15%	Varies by HS code - contact our experts
Textiles and Apparel	Varies by HS code	Contact our experts for specific rates
Agricultural Products	Varies by HS code	Contact our experts for specific rates
Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals	Varies by HS code	Contact our experts for specific rates
General Merchandise	4% - 45%	Depends on specific product classification

For accurate duty rate determination on specific products, exporters should use the EU's TARIC (Integrated Tariff of the European Union) database or consult the Customs Info Database tariff look-up tool available on trade.gov with free registration.

Required Documentation

• Commercial Invoice - Detailing the description, quantity, unit price, and total value of goods
• Packing List - Specifying the contents and weight of each shipment package
• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill - Proof of shipment and transportation details
• Certificate of Origin - Documenting the country of manufacture or origin
• Import Declaration - Completed customs entry form with product HS codes
• Insurance Documents - If applicable to the shipment terms
• Product-Specific Certifications - Such as quality certificates, safety certifications, or health certificates depending on product type
• Phytosanitary Certificates - Required for agricultural and plant-based products

Important Regulations

Bulgaria, as an EU member state, enforces all European Union customs regulations and trade standards. Key regulatory considerations include:

• All goods must be properly classified using the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for tariff determination
• Customs duties are calculated based on the customs value of goods, typically the transaction price
• Value Added Tax (VAT) may apply in addition to customs duties, with standard rates varying by product category
• Certain products may be subject to additional restrictions, quotas, or prohibitions under EU regulations
• Labeling and marking requirements must comply with EU standards, including language requirements in Bulgarian
• Safety, health, and environmental standards must meet EU specifications
• Import licenses or permits may be required for specific product categories

Trade Agreements

Afghanistan and Bulgaria do not have a bilateral preferential trade agreement. However, Afghanistan may benefit from certain multilateral trade arrangements through its membership in international trade organizations. Afghanistan's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) status with the EU may provide tariff reductions on eligible products, though verification of current GSP eligibility is recommended.

For the most current information on applicable tariff rates, trade agreements, and specific product requirements, exporters are advised to consult with Bulgarian customs authorities, the EU TARIC database, or professional customs brokers experienced in Afghanistan-Bulgaria trade.