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Importing to New Zealand

New Zealand does not currently have an import licensing system, so any business or individual can import goods to New Zealand, as long as the goods are not prohibited. Imports are liable for GST and customs duties, and quarantine restrictions are the main regulations affecting importers. This is information for businesses planning to import.

Starting out as an importer Opens in a new window

Any individual or organisation can import goods, but have you done your research? This article provides an overview to getting started in importing. Things to consider include: product sourcing, regulations, transport, trade finance, shipping terms and abbreviations, and insurance.

This information is brought to you by Daniel Silva

An overview of importing duties and taxes Opens in a new window (PDF)

A fact sheet on the duties and taxes the New Zealand Customs Service imposes on imported goods. It explains how customs duty is charged on goods imported into New Zealand, lists a number of concessions, and describes which goods are subject to strict import control, or are absolutely prohibited.

This information is brought to you by New Zealand Customs Service

Duties and levies Opens in a new window

Information on duties and levies on imported goods such as GST, entry transaction fees, alcohol levies, heavy engineering levies, and anti-dumping and countervailing duties.

This information is brought to you by New Zealand Customs Service

Your options for payment of customs charges Opens in a new window

This article provides a brief overview of the three options for paying customs charges on import entries. The options are deferred payment, a broker deferred credit facility, and cash. If you are not on deferred payment you must pay all customs charges before a delivery order to collect the shipment will be issued.

This information is brought to you by New Zealand Customs Service

How to clear imported goods through customs Opens in a new window

Information about New Zealand Customs Service requirements for the clearance of imported goods. It includes importer responsibilities, how to make a customs entry and lodge a clearance, processing registrations, pre-importation rulings, administrative penalties, and importing commercial goods as accompanied luggage.

This information is brought to you by New Zealand Customs Service

Which imports require permits? Opens in a new window (PDF)

Do you need approval to import? Some imported goods require special approval from government departments and agencies. Use this fact sheet to find out if it relates to you. It outlines the import prohibitions and restrictions that are covered by alerts.

This information is brought to you by New Zealand Customs Service

Import prohibitions and restrictions Opens in a new window (PDF)

Are the goods you want to import prohibited? Find out by using the table provided; a schedule of import prohibitions and restrictions enforced by the New Zealand Customs Service. It sets out information on the goods, the purpose for the prohibition, the authority and then the relevant legislation where more information can be found.

This information is brought to you by New Zealand Customs Service

What biosecurity means for importers Opens in a new window

A Biosecurity New Zealand overview of the rules and regulations designed to keep unwanted pests and diseases out of the country. Containers, food, animal products, plants and packaging, may host disease or pests which could devastate our agricultural, horticultural, forestry and tourism industries and international trade.

This information is brought to you by Biosecurity New Zealand

The pre-importation rulings service Opens in a new window (PDF)

How can a pre-importation ruling benefit you? Use this fact sheet to find out about the pre-importation ruling service New Zealand Customs Service offers all importers, exporters, and manufacturers of excisable goods. Learn how you can clear your goods before going through Customs, and the benefits this will have for your business.

This information is brought to you by New Zealand Customs Service


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