CUSTOMS DUTIES: AFGHANISTAN TO LITHUANIA

Overview of Customs Duties from Afghanistan to Lithuania

Trade between Afghanistan and Lithuania is subject to customs regulations established by Lithuania as a European Union member state. Lithuania applies the Common Customs Tariff (CCT) of the European Union to goods imported from non-EU countries, including Afghanistan. Understanding these regulations is essential for exporters seeking to ship goods to the Lithuanian market, as compliance with customs requirements ensures smooth clearance and timely delivery of shipments.

As an EU member state, Lithuania follows the Integrated Tariff of the European Union (TARIC) system for determining applicable duty rates. Goods originating from Afghanistan are classified as non-EU imports and are subject to standard tariff rates established under EU trade policy. The duty structure is relatively favorable for many manufactured goods, though certain sectors including textiles, clothing, and food products may face higher protective measures.

General Duty Rates

Lithuania applies duty rates based on the Harmonized System (HS) classification of goods. The following table provides guidance on typical duty rates for common product categories:

Product Category	Typical Duty Rate	Notes
Manufactured Goods (General)	4.2% (Average)	Non-EU countries benefit from relatively low rates
Textile and Clothing Items	Varies by HS code	Subject to protective measures; contact customs experts
Food Processing Products	Varies by HS code	Higher protective tariffs may apply; verify specific rates
Commercial Samples	Duty Exemption Available	Temporary duty exemptions possible upon request
Exhibition/Trade Fair Goods	Duty Exemption Available	Temporary exemptions for goods displayed at events

For products not listed above or those with HS codes not specified, duty rates vary by specific commodity classification. Exporters should consult the TARIC database or contact Lithuanian customs authorities for precise rate determination.

Required Documentation

The following documents are typically required for customs clearance of goods exported from Afghanistan to Lithuania:

• Commercial Invoice - detailing product description, quantity, unit price, and total value
• Packing List - showing contents, weight, and dimensions of each package
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill - proof of shipment and transportation details
• Certificate of Origin - documenting the country of manufacture
• Import License (if applicable) - required for restricted goods categories
• Product-Specific Certifications - such as quality, safety, or health certificates depending on product type
• Customs Declaration Form - completed and signed by the importer or customs broker
• Insurance Documentation - if goods are insured during transit

Important Regulations

Exporters must comply with several key regulations when shipping goods to Lithuania:

• All goods must be properly classified according to the Harmonized System (HS) code to determine applicable duty rates
• Goods transiting Lithuania are not subject to duties, provided they do not enter the Lithuanian market
• Textile and clothing items face protective measures and may require additional documentation or compliance verification
• Food products and food-processing items are subject to stricter regulations and may require health certificates or laboratory testing
• Prohibited and restricted imports include certain dangerous goods, counterfeit products, and items violating intellectual property rights
• Proper labeling in Lithuanian or English is required for consumer products
• Exporters should verify compliance with EU standards and regulations, as Lithuania enforces EU-wide trade standards

Trade Agreements and Preferential Access

Afghanistan does not currently maintain formal preferential trade agreements with Lithuania that would reduce standard tariff rates. However, goods may qualify for temporary duty exemptions under specific circumstances:

• Commercial samples intended for market testing may obtain temporary duty exemptions
• Goods displayed at exhibitions, trade fairs, or business conferences may qualify for temporary duty relief
• Goods in transit through Lithuania to other destinations are not subject to Lithuanian import duties

For the most current information on tariff rates, trade regulations, and preferential arrangements, consult the TARIC – Integrated Tariff of the European Union and Customs Info Database, or contact the Lithuanian Customs Authority directly. Professional customs brokers can provide expert guidance on specific shipments and help ensure full compliance with all applicable regulations.