Important Note on Saudi Arabia's Latest Import Customs Clearance and Tax Policies

To ensure the smooth and efficient customs clearance of your goods and documents, we hereby consolidate the latest policies and requirements of Saudi Customs. Please carefully read the following content before arranging shipments to Saudi Arabia.

I. Core Policy: Comprehensive VAT Collection

In accordance with the regulations of Saudi tax authorities, almost all goods imported into Saudi Arabia (including commercial samples, documents, etc.) are subject to Value Added Tax (VAT).

Standard Tax Rate: The current standard VAT rate is 15%.
Tax Calculation: VAT is usually calculated based on the "CIF value" of the goods, which is the sum of the goods value, insurance fees, and international freight.
Important Case: Document Shipments
The previously notified "17.25 SAR tax on imported documents" arises from this policy.
This indicates that even commercial documents with a very low declared value will be subject to VAT if their total value exceeds Saudi Arabia's tax exemption threshold.

II. Key Requirement for Goods Customs Clearance: SABER Certification

The Saudi government has mandated the SABER certification system for the vast majority of commodity goods.

Scope of Application: Almost all products under the Saudi Product Safety Program, such as electrical appliances, children's toys, building materials, chemicals, etc.
Core Requirements: Importers must obtain two key certificates for each shipment through the SABER online system before the goods arrive:
- Product Conformity Certificate (PCoC): For product registration.
- Shipment Conformity Certificate (SCoC): For customs clearance of each shipment.
Note: SABER certification is mainly applied for and processed by Saudi importers. Before shipping, please confirm with your customer that this work has been completed.

III. Operational Suggestions and Important Reminders for You

To avoid customs clearance delays, return shipments, or high penalties, please follow these steps:

Confirm with the Consignee Before Shipping

Confirm tax payment: Clearly inform the consignee of the possible customs duties and VAT, and agree in writing on who (shipper or consignee) will bear the costs.
Confirm certification qualifications: For goods, urge your Saudi customer to complete all necessary SABER certifications and other possible required permits.

Ensure Accurate and Complete Documents

Commercial Invoice: A detailed and accurate English commercial invoice must be provided. The invoice should include a clear description of the goods, HS code, quantity, unit price, and total value.
Consistent Information: Information on all documents (shipper, consignee, product name, value, etc.) must be consistent.

Understand Potential Risks

If a shipment is detained by customs due to lack of certification, inconsistent documents, failure to pay taxes, etc., high storage fees, fines, and handling fees may be incurred.
According to carrier terms, if the consignee refuses or is unable to pay, all fees will ultimately be borne by the shipper.

IV. Assistance We Can Provide

We can provide you with the latest transportation channel information and time limit references.
We can assist you in reviewing the completeness of customs clearance document formats (but we are not responsible for the authenticity of documents or certification qualifications).
We strongly recommend that you maintain close communication with your Saudi consignee, as they bear the ultimate responsibility for their country's import processes and policies.

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