Finland's Customs Import and Export Tax

Summary:

This article provides an overview of the import and export tax system in the Finland, detailing the types of taxes, rates, and exemptions that apply to goods entering or leaving the country.

Overview

Whether you are an individual or a business entity, importing goods into Finland (from countries outside the EU) requires the payment of import duties and other taxes. All import taxes are calculated based on the value of the goods, which is the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) price.

Customs Duties

Finland's customs duty rates generally range from 0% (e.g., books) to 17% (e.g., Wellington boots). Some goods, such as laptops, mobile phones, digital cameras, and game consoles, are exempt from customs duties. Certain goods may be subject to additional duties, calculated based on the country of origin. For example, bicycles manufactured in China may be subject to an additional 48.5% anti-dumping duty.

Value-Added Tax (VAT)

Finland's standard VAT rate is 24%. Certain goods enjoy reduced VAT rates, such as food at 14% and books and newspapers at 10%. Some goods, like laptops and other electronic products, are exempt from VAT. Finnish VAT = VAT rate × (CIF value + import duty).

Standard Tax Threshold

Finland has thresholds for import duties and taxes. Goods with a value of no more than USD 150 (FOB) or total customs duties of no more than EUR 10 are exempt from customs duties. Goods with a value of no more than USD 22 (FOB) or total customs duties of no more than EUR 5 are exempt from VAT.

Other Taxes

Consumption Tax: Levied on specific goods such as tobacco products.
Additional Customs Fees: Charged for inspections, examinations, and tests that must be conducted on imported goods at customs.