Frequently Asked Questions

Trade Problems & Barriers: Foreign Trade Barriers

What import duties and taxes might apply to my products in specific countries?

Import duties and taxes provide revenue as well as a means of protecting the nation's industry and ensuring a level playing field against foreign industry. Duty is normally due when goods are entered across a country's border. The duty and tax amount may be based on:

Commodity value
Trade agreements
Country of manufacture
Use of the article
Commodity HS number

To find the current official duty and tax rates for your products in a specific country, the best source is the country's Customs authority. Tariff and tax information is also available from several Web sources. For rates on agricultural products, see WTO Tariff Schedules. For rates in member countries of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), see the APEC Tariff Database. For more information, you may want to contact your freight forwarder or your local Pennsylvania Regional Export Network (REN) Partner.

« Back to Trade Problems & Barriers

Need Help?

Can’t find the answer to your question? Identify the Pennsylvania County where your company is located to access the contact information for your local Regional Export Network Partner.