ZATCA Introduces Revised Customs Service Fees To Enhance Saudi Arabia's Trade

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has introduced new Fee Rules on Customs Services. These rules specify the fees for customs services provided by ZATCA and the conditions for fulfilling them. The decision will take effect on 6 October 2024.

Under the new rules, all customs service fees for exports will be waived. For imports, a new mechanism will reduce customs service fees. This involves a fee of 0.15% of the value of incoming goods for customs declaration processing services.

Additionally, a SAR 15 fee will apply to customs declaration processing services on individuals' shipments from online stores, provided these shipments do not exceed SAR 1,000 in value.

ZATCA clarified that the waived fees for export services include customs declaration processing, lead seal, land port loading services, X-ray inspection, customs data exchange, and sample analysis at specialized laboratories.

Previous Import Fees

Previously, import fees included SAR 100 per container inspected by X-ray, another SAR 100 for "information exchange" services, and SAR 20 for customs declaration processing. The new decision bases the fee on 0.15% of the value of incoming goods, including insurance and shipping.

New Import Fee Structure

The new import fee structure sets a maximum fee of SAR 500 and a minimum of SAR 15. There is also a special cap of SAR 130 for shipments exempt from customs duties and taxes.

Encouraging Exports

ZATCA indicated that waiving export fees would encourage exporters and alleviate financial burdens, especially for SMEs. This move aims to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of Saudi exports.

Reducing Import Costs

The new mechanism aims to reduce import costs and help importers pre-calculate customs service fees. It also sets a higher limit for such fees to eliminate cost increases against importers.

Unified Calculation Mechanism

The decision unifies the calculation mechanism across various land, sea, and air ports while supporting trade facilitation objectives. This ensures no cost increases against importers.

Strategic Objectives

ZATCA seeks to provide customs services according to best practices through these measures. This aims to realize positive income across the logistics ecosystem and support its strategic objectives.

Promoting Confidence

The new measures aim to promote confidence among importers and exporters while improving transparency. ZATCA reiterated its commitment to developing its customs services in line with Vision 2030.

ZATCA invites customers with inquiries to contact them via their unified call center number (19993), X Account (@Zatca_Care), e-mail ([email protected]), or instant chat through their website (zatca.gov.sa).

With inputs from SPA