Customs & Import Duty in Pakistan: A Beginner's Guide
Importing goods into Pakistan can be a complex process. When a product arrives at the port or airport, it is checked by Pakistan Customs. You are then required to pay various duties and taxes before you can take your items home or to your shop. These taxes are used by the government to regulate trade and protect local industries. Our Customs Calculator helps you estimate these costs so there are no surprises at the port.
Understanding Different Import Taxes
When you import something, the final bill usually has four main parts:
- Customs Duty (CD): This is the primary tax on imported goods. The rate depends on the type of product (e.g., electronics have different rates than clothes).
- Additional Customs Duty (ACD): An extra percentage added to the base duty for certain categories.
- Sales Tax: A standard tax (usually 18%) applied to the value of the goods after adding customs duty.
- Withholding Tax (WHT): An advance income tax. Filers pay a lower rate, while Non-Filers pay much more.
How to Use the Customs Calculator
- Select Category: Choose what kind of item you are importing (e.g., Electronics, Textile, Machinery).
- Enter CIF Value: CIF stands for Cost, Insurance, and Freight. This is the total value of your goods plus shipping and insurance costs.
- Pick Import Type: Are you importing as an individual or for a commercial business?
- Check Filer Status: A Filer status can save you thousands in Withholding Tax.
Tips for Smoother Imports
Always make sure you have the correct HS Code (Harmonized System Code) for your product. This 8-digit code determines exactly which tax slab your product falls into. If you use the wrong code, you might face heavy penalties from Pakistan Customs. Our tool provides a general estimate, but it's always good to check the latest "Customs Tariff" book for specific items.