CUSTOMS DUTIES: PORTUGAL TO EGYPT

Overview of Customs Duties from Portugal to Egypt

Exporting goods from Portugal to Egypt involves navigating Egypt's customs regulations, which are characterized by moderate average duty rates but complex bureaucratic procedures. Egypt maintains an average import duty rate of 10.5%, though rates vary significantly by product category, ranging from 0% to 60%. As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Egypt applies the most-favored-nation (MFN) clause, meaning Portugal-origin goods receive standard treatment unless covered by specific bilateral trade agreements. It is important to note that Egypt does not operate a de minimis threshold, meaning duty and Value-Added Tax (VAT) are charged on all imports regardless of value.

General Duty Rates for Common Product Categories

Product Category	Duty Rate	VAT Rate	Notes
Electronics and Media	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	14%	TV screens and monitors: 40% unified tariff
Machinery and Equipment (production use)	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	5% (reduced)	Reduced VAT for industrial machinery
Fashion and Textiles	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	14%	Sportswear and protective uniforms: 20% tariff
Food and Agricultural Products	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	5% (reduced)	Necessary foodstuffs qualify for reduced VAT
Personal Care and Hygiene Products	20%	14%	Includes toothpaste, shaving creams, medical soaps
Furniture and Appliances	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	14%	Baby strollers: 20% tariff
Automotive Products	30-100%	14%	1600 CC vehicles: 30%; higher engine power: 100%; electric vehicles exempt
Medications (infectious, chronic, psychiatric, neurological diseases)	0%	Exempt	Fully exempt from customs duties
Medical Equipment (dialysis)	0%	Exempt	Fully exempt from customs duties
LED Bulbs and Light-Emitting Diodes	0%	5%	Components: 5% tariff on plastic and glass

Required Documentation

• Commercial Invoice detailing product description, quantity, unit price, and total value
• Packing List with detailed breakdown of goods and packaging specifications
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill as proof of shipment
• Certificate of Origin confirming Portuguese origin of goods
• Import License or permit (if required for specific product categories)
• Certificate of Conformity or quality certificates for regulated products
• Health and Safety Certificates (where applicable)
• Customs Declaration Form completed in accordance with Egyptian customs requirements
• Insurance documents if goods are insured during transit

Important Regulations

• De Minimis Policy: Egypt charges duty and VAT on all imports with no minimum threshold exemption. Every shipment is subject to customs assessment regardless of declared value.
• CIF Valuation: Duties and taxes are calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value of goods, not FOB value alone.
• Bureaucratic Procedures: Egypt's customs procedures are known to be slow and cumbersome. Allow extended processing times and maintain detailed documentation records.
• Non-Tariff Barriers: Egypt maintains non-tariff trade barriers that may affect market entry. Consult with local customs brokers regarding specific product restrictions.
• Prohibited and Restricted Items: Certain goods may be prohibited or restricted. Verify product eligibility before shipment.
• Labeling Requirements: Products must comply with Egyptian labeling and marking requirements, including Arabic language labeling where applicable.

Trade Agreements and Preferential Treatment

Egypt maintains at least 12 trade agreements offering zero or significantly discounted duty rates for goods manufactured in participating countries. These agreements primarily focus on bilateral arrangements with Arab nations. As a WTO member, Egypt applies MFN treatment to all member countries, including Portugal. To determine if your specific goods qualify for preferential treatment under any trade agreement, consult with the Egyptian Ministry of Trade and Industry or a qualified customs broker. Goods originating from Portugal may qualify for reduced rates under certain circumstances, but this requires proper documentation and certification of origin.