Importing from China has become one of the most common strategies for entrepreneurs and companies seeking products with competitive prices and quality. However, many are unaware of the taxes payable on imports , which can drastically reduce profitability if not planned in advance. It’s not just about tariffs or VAT; there are also special taxes that can surprise those who are unprepared.
In 2025, customs and tax regulations in Europe and Latin America are becoming increasingly strict, so knowing the details of all the taxes associated with an import is key to accurately calculating margins and avoiding losses.
What taxes are there on importing products from China?
When importing goods from China, you don’t just have to consider logistics and transportation costs. There are various taxes that directly impact the final price of the product:
- Import duties
are a percentage applied to the customs value of the product (purchase price plus shipping and insurance). The percentage depends on the type of merchandise and is determined by the HS Code or tariff item .- In the European Union, most tariffs range between 1.7% and 4.5%.
- Some products, such as textiles, can reach up to 12%.
- Other goods enter with 0% tariff .
- Import VAT
VAT is applied to the sum of the customs value plus tariffs.- 21% off general products.
- 10% on food or medical products.
- 4% for essential goods such as medicines. There is a deferred VAT
option , which allows you to declare it without paying it immediately, a useful option for frequent importers.
- Anti-dumping duties
are applied to products that reach the market at artificially low prices, in order to protect local industry.- They usually range between 65% and 85% of the product’s value.
- Example: electric bicycles and some steel products from China.
- Non-reusable plastic tax
Applies to containers and packaging containing non-recycled plastic.- In the European Union, the rate is €0.45 per kilo of non-recycled plastic .
- Although today estimates are usually made “by eye,” increased customs controls are expected in 2025.
- WEEE Rate (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment)
Applies to products with electrical or electronic components, such as mobile phones, computers or household appliances.- It is paid quarterly according to the weight and quantity imported.
- It requires registration in an official waste management system.
Benefits of knowing taxes before importing
Being clear about the taxes you pay when importing from China not only prevents unpleasant surprises, it also provides competitive advantages:
- Calculate real margins : you will be able to define profitable selling prices without fear of losses.
- Avoid penalties : Complying with tax regulations prevents fines and customs blockages.
- Optimize cash flow : With strategies like deferred VAT, your company’s capital isn’t compromised at the time of delivery.
- Choose your suppliers better : Knowing the HS Code in advance helps you rule out products with excessively high taxes.
- Improving sustainability : Providing plastic taxes encourages negotiations with Chinese manufacturers for more environmentally friendly packaging.
Practical example of tax calculation on an import
Let’s say you import electronics in plastic packaging from China:
- Value of the merchandise: €10,000
- Transport and insurance: €500
- Customs value: €10,500
- Tariff (5%): €525
- Plastic tax (30 kg x €0.45): €13.5
- WEEE fee: €500
The taxable base on which VAT is applied would be:
10,500 + 525 + 13.5 + 500 = €11,538.5
VAT (21%): €2,423.09
Total taxes payable = €3,461.59
This example demonstrates how additional taxes can represent a significant part of the final cost of the operation.
Steps to correctly calculate import taxes
- Request the HS Code from your supplier : without this information, you won’t be able to know the applicable tariffs.
- Consult official databases : platforms such as TARIC Europe or the Tax Agency show the exact percentages.
- Calculate the customs value : add the product price, shipping, and insurance.
- Apply the corresponding tariff : according to the tariff item.
- Add special taxes if applicable : non-reusable plastics, WEEE or anti-dumping duties.
- Calculate import VAT : based on the customs value plus all previous taxes.
- Evaluate tax alternatives , such as deferred VAT, to improve your company’s liquidity.
Additional tips for importers in 2025
- Check if your product is subject to antidumping before closing with the supplier.
- Negotiate with manufacturers for more sustainable packaging to reduce the plastic tax.
- Use reliable freight forwarders , but remember that they don’t always calculate taxes, only logistics costs.
- Stay informed about regulatory changes : Regulations are often updated year after year.
- Sign up for your country’s importer community to access real-time experiences and recommendations.
Mastering import tax calculations is an essential step for any business looking to grow with products imported from China. Tariffs, VAT, and excise duties may seem complex at first, but with organization and planning, they become tools for financial control.
If you’re thinking about importing and want to do it profitably, don’t wait any longer: check your product, consult the HS Code, and start planning your next transaction today safely and without any hassles at customs.
