CUSTOMS DUTIES: AFGHANISTAN TO NORWAY

Overview of Customs Duties from Afghanistan to Norway

When exporting goods from Afghanistan to Norway, shipments are subject to Norwegian and European customs regulations. Norway, as a member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and a signatory to the European Economic Area (EEA) accord, maintains specific tariff structures and import requirements. As a non-EEA country, Afghanistan-origin goods do not qualify for EEA preferential tariff rates and are subject to the standard Common External Tariff (CET) rates applied by Norway and the EU customs territory.

All goods entering Norway must be properly classified according to the Combined Nomenclature system and declared to Norwegian customs authorities. The classification determines applicable duty rates, taxes, and any special trade measures such as anti-dumping duties or protective measures.

General Duty Rates

Tariff rates for imports from Afghanistan into Norway vary significantly based on product classification under the Harmonized System (HS) and Combined Nomenclature codes. The following table provides guidance for common product categories:

Product Category	Duty Rate	Notes
Textiles and Apparel	Varies by HS code	Contact experts for specific rates
Agricultural Products	Varies by HS code	Not covered under EEA accord; subject to standard tariffs
Minerals and Metals	Varies by HS code	Contact experts for specific rates
Machinery and Equipment	Varies by HS code	Contact experts for specific rates
Handcrafted Goods	Varies by HS code	Contact experts for specific rates

Important: To determine exact duty rates applicable to your specific products, consult the EU's Integrated Tariff (TARIC) database, which is updated daily and can be searched by product description, HS code, or country of origin.

Required Documentation

• Commercial Invoice - detailing product descriptions, quantities, unit prices, and total value
• Packing List - itemizing contents and weights of each package
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill - proof of shipment and transportation
• Certificate of Origin - confirming goods originate from Afghanistan
• Import Declaration Form - submitted to Norwegian customs authorities
• Product-Specific Certificates - such as health certificates, quality certifications, or compliance documents as required
• Insurance Documentation - if goods are insured during transit
• Customs Declaration - with accurate HS codes and product classifications

Important Regulations

• Classification Requirements: All products must be correctly classified under the Combined Nomenclature eight-digit coding system to ensure accurate duty assessment and compliance with import regulations.
• Customs Valuation: Duties are calculated based on the customs value of goods, typically the transaction price including transportation and insurance costs to the Norwegian border.
• Value Added Tax (VAT): In addition to customs duties, imported goods are subject to Norwegian VAT, currently applied at standard rates on the dutiable value.
• Prohibited and Restricted Items: Certain goods may be prohibited or restricted, including items subject to anti-dumping measures, protective measures, or specific import restrictions enforced by Norwegian and EU authorities.
• Documentation Accuracy: All customs documents must be accurate and complete. False declarations may result in penalties, seizure of goods, or legal action.
• Temporary Suspension of Duties: Some products may benefit from temporary duty suspensions; consult the TARIC database for current status.

Trade Agreements and Preferential Access

Afghanistan is not a member of the EFTA or EEA, and therefore Afghan exports do not benefit from preferential tariff treatment in Norway. Goods from Afghanistan are subject to the standard Common External Tariff rates applied to non-EEA countries. However, Afghanistan may benefit from certain Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or other development-related trade preferences depending on EU and Norwegian trade policies. Exporters should verify current eligibility for any preferential schemes.

For the most current and accurate tariff information, consult the EU's Integrated Tariff (TARIC) database at the Directorate-General for Taxation and the Customs Union website, or contact Norwegian customs authorities and trade experts specializing in Afghanistan-Norway trade.