Egypt, one of North Africa's largest economies, stands out with its strategic location, growing domestic market, and role as a gateway to Africa and the Middle East. Many countries, especially Turkey, are rapidly developing their foreign trade relations with Egypt. However, customs duty rates are critical for companies seeking to enter this market.
In this article, we've compiled Egypt's current import and export tax rates, sectoral details, and procedures to consider as of 2025.
How is Customs Duty Calculated in Egypt?
Customs duties applied to products in Egypt are based on three main factors:
HS Code
Country of origin (whether covered by Free Trade Agreements)
Product type and intended use
Sector-Based Customs Duty Rates (2025)
Product Group Average Customs Duty Rate
Textiles & Ready-to-Wear 20%–40%
Electronic Products 10%–30%
Automotive & Spare Parts 10%–135% (based on engine displacement)
Food & Agricultural Products 5%–40%
Furniture and Wooden Products 20%–40%
Egypt appears to have a protectionist approach, particularly regarding luxury goods and high-tax products.
Trade Agreements Between Turkey and Egypt
Turkey and Egypt have a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This agreement provides for mutual customs duty exemptions or reductions for certain product groups.
Advantageous Product Groups:
Industrial products
Some agricultural and textile products
Chemical products
Electrical and mechanical components
To benefit from the FTA, a certificate of origin (EUR.1 Document) must be issued.
Required Documents for Imports to Egypt
Commercial invoice
Packing list
HS code
EUR.1 document (for FTA)
Certificates (e.g., health certificate, product conformity certificate)
Import license (mandatory for certain products)
The Egyptian Customs Administration may sometimes request pre-inspection or product testing during import procedures. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare complete documentation before shipment.
Exporting from Egypt: Are There Any Duties?
There are generally no customs duties when exporting from Egypt. However, export restrictions or licenses may be required for certain strategic products (such as cotton, fertilizer, metal ore, etc.). The Egyptian government may also impose export bans from time to time to protect the domestic market.
Additional Information About the Egyptian Customs System
ACID System (Advanced Cargo Information Document): Companies exporting to Egypt must declare shipment information electronically in advance.
Transactions are carried out through the Nafeza Portal.
For exporters from Turkey, the merchant code, product code, and shipping documents must be entered in this system.
Practical Tips for Trade
Determine the GTIP code correctly; otherwise, you may be charged high taxes.
Don't forget to issue a EUR.1 document to avoid missing out on the FTA advantage.
In Egypt, some products are required to have labeling and packaging in Arabic.
Shipping a shipment without entering the ACID system can lead to significant delays at the port.
It is recommended that you plan your logistics process with an Egyptian customs broker.
Conclusion
The Egyptian market offers significant opportunities in 2025, especially for companies seeking to expand into Africa and the Middle East. However, to capitalize on these opportunities, thorough analysis of customs duty rates and trade procedures is essential. With the right documentation, FTA advantages, and strategic planning, it's possible to establish a strong trade network in Egypt.