International convention and customs procedures of Kuwait

International Conventions: Party to the Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer
International Economic Cooperation: Kuwait is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council alongside Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The country is also part of the Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA), a pact of the Arab League entered into force in January 2005 which aims to form an Arabic free trade area.
Non Tariff Barriers: It is impossible to import products from Israel and alcohol.
Customs Duties and Taxes on Imports: 5% « ad valorem » most products.
First need product and are not taxed.
Some products have a tax rate of 10% to 12% to protect the national industry.
There is a 100% tax rate on tobacco.
For further information, visit Kuwait Customs website.

Customs Classification

Tariffs are based on the Harmonized International System (HIS) Code for classification of imports and exports.
For further information, visit Kuwait Customs website.

Import Procedures

Importers apply for import licenses from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and must be registered with the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI). Licenses are valid for one year, are renewable, and allow for multiple shipments. Import licenses for industrial machinery and spare parts are also required, which are issued by the Industrial Development Commission of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

These documents are needed to import products to Kuwait:

Certificate of origin
An invoice
A packing list
A Bill of lading

Some goods may require a license or additional documentation.
Only the local agent is authorised to clear items at Kuwait Customs by showing an official letter of representation as well as a letter by the end-user.

For further information, visit this website.

Importing Samples

Samples are exempt from customs taxes as long as their packaging identifies their sender and their advertising purpose.