CUSTOMS DUTIES: SWEDEN TO TUNISIA

Overview of Customs Duties from Sweden to Tunisia

When exporting goods from Sweden to Tunisia, exporters must navigate Tunisia's complex customs framework and tariff system. Tunisia maintains a protectionist trade policy designed to support local manufacturing and key development sectors. As of 2024, while 35.2% of Tunisia's Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff lines are duty-free, remaining tariff lines can be subject to import duties as high as 200%. The simple average MFN tariff rate for all products stands at 19.4%, making it essential for Swedish exporters to understand product-specific duties and compliance requirements.

General Duty Rates

Product Category	Tariff Rate Range	Notes
Bananas	0% to 50%	Increased rates as of 2022
Mobile Phones	0% to 20%	No local equivalent category
Coffee	36% to 50%	Increased from previous rates
Cosmetic Products and Perfumes	30% to 43%	Increased rates on consumer products
Apparel, Bedding, Shoes, Bags, Carpets	30% to 50%	Increased from 30% in 2022
Cheese, Honey, Chocolate, Candies, Biscuits, Beverages	36% to 50%	Includes juices, mineral water, beer, wine
Construction Materials (marble, gypsum, paint, wood, aluminum, ceramics)	30% to 43%	Increased to 43% on products with local equivalents
Bus, Motorcycle, Bicycle Assembly Materials	43%	Government priority development sector
Furniture and Lighting Manufacturing Materials	43%	Government priority development sector
Automobiles (large engine capacity)	Up to 277% (gasoline), 360% (diesel)	Consumption tax applies; highest rates for luxury vehicles
General Luxury Items	Up to 150%	Consumption tax rates vary

Additional Fees: All imports are subject to a customs formality fee of 3% of total duties paid. Value Added Tax (VAT) is calculated at 19%, 13%, or 7% depending on the product category, with most goods subject to the 19% rate. VAT is assessed on the base price plus import duties, surcharges, and consumption taxes.

Required Documentation

• Commercial Invoice with detailed product descriptions and values
• Packing List specifying contents, weights, and dimensions
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill for transportation
• Certificate of Origin confirming Swedish origin
• Import License (where applicable for restricted goods)
• Product-specific certifications or compliance documents
• Customs Declaration Form completed by importer or customs broker
• Insurance documentation if applicable

Important Regulations

Tariff Classification: Accurate Harmonized System (HS) code classification is critical, as duty rates vary significantly by product category. Products with locally manufactured equivalents face substantially higher tariffs than those without local competition.

Prohibited and Restricted Imports: Certain goods may be prohibited or restricted. Verify specific product categories with Tunisian customs authorities before shipment. This is particularly important for pharmaceuticals, food products, and items with security implications.

Customs Broker Requirement: Engaging a qualified Tunisian customs broker is highly recommended to navigate the complex regulatory environment and ensure proper documentation and duty payment.

Government Policy: Since 2022, Tunisia has implemented protective measures favoring locally manufactured goods. Products competing with local manufacturing face significantly higher tariffs than those without domestic equivalents.

Trade Agreements

Sweden, as a European Union member state, may benefit from the EU's trade relationships with Tunisia. However, Swedish exporters should verify current trade agreement status and any preferential tariff rates that may apply. Direct bilateral agreements between Sweden and Tunisia should be confirmed with the Swedish Board of Trade or relevant Tunisian trade authorities. Tunisia's membership in various regional and multilateral trade organizations may provide certain preferential rates on specific products.

Recommendation: Contact the Swedish Trade and Invest Council or a specialized customs broker with expertise in Tunisia trade for current, product-specific tariff information and compliance guidance.