UAE - Tunisia

Important Information

Explore crucial trade details such as taxes, tariffs, restricted goods, and logistic guidelines for UAE-Tunisia shipments.

UAE Tariffs and Taxes

The UAE implements a relatively low customs duty rate, typically at 5% for most goods. Exceptions include alcohol and tobacco products, which are taxed at higher rates. There is no VAT on exports, while imports are subject to a 5% VAT, reinforcing the UAE's appeal as a trade-friendly environment.

Tunisia Tariffs and Taxes

Tunisia applies a standard VAT rate of 19% on goods and services, with reduced rates for certain essentials. Import duties vary widely based on the product type, ranging from 0% for essential goods to higher rates for luxury items, aligning with the country's economic protection strategies.

Restricted/Licensed Goods

Restricted or licensed goods for import/export between the UAE and Tunisia include

Alcoholic beverages: Restricted; require special licenses for import and export.
Tobacco products: Heavily regulated, requiring specific permissions and subjected to high duties.
Pharmaceuticals: Must comply with health regulations, requiring appropriate licenses for importation.

Permissible Weights and Dimensions

Understand the limits set for cargo transport to ensure compliance and avoid penalties:

Standard Truck

Length: 12.5 meters

Width: 2.5 meters

Height: 4.0 meters

Maximum Weight: 40 tons

Maximum Axle Load: 13 tons

Driven Axle Weight: 9 tons

Semi-trailer

Length: 16.5 meters

Width: 2.5 meters

Height: 4.0 meters

Maximum Weight: 44 tons

Maximum Axle Load: 14 tons

Driven Axle Weight: 10 tons

Road Train

Length: 18.75 meters

Width: 2.5 meters

Height: 4.0 meters

Maximum Weight: 60 tons

Maximum Axle Load: 16 tons

Driven Axle Weight: 12 tons

Local Holidays

Plan your logistics around Tunisia’s holidays to avoid delays:

January 1 - New Year’s Day
March 20 - Independence Day
April 9 - Martyrs' Day
May 1 - Labour Day
July 25 - Republic Day
October 15 - Evacuation Day
Eid Al Fitr - End of Ramadan (Variable date)
Eid Al Adha - Feast of Sacrifice (Variable date)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What types of goods require special licenses or permissions for import/export between the UAE and Tunisia?

Special licenses or permissions are required for the import/export of alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and pharmaceuticals. These goods are heavily regulated due to their impact on health and public safety. For pharmaceuticals, compliance with health regulations is mandatory, and a license from the health ministry of the respective country is needed.

What are the standard customs duties when importing goods into Tunisia from the UAE?

Tunisia's customs duties vary widely depending on the product type. Essential goods may be taxed at lower rates or exempted to support local markets, while luxury items and non-essentials can have higher tariffs. The standard VAT rate in Tunisia is 19%, but there are reduced rates for certain essential items. Import duties are aligned with Tunisia's economic protection strategies and may range from 0% to higher rates depending on the goods' classification.

Are there any customs exemptions available for goods imported into Tunisia or the UAE?

In Tunisia, customs exemptions are often granted for specific sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing to encourage local production. These exemptions are also available under various international trade agreements. In the UAE, customs exemptions are typically offered for goods imported into free zones or for re-export, as well as for strategic industries such as renewable energy and aerospace under specific conditions.

What are the estimated transit times for shipping goods by sea and air between the UAE and Tunisia?

By sea, transit times between the UAE and Tunisia typically range from 10 to 14 days, depending on the shipping line and exact route. By air, goods can be transported much faster, with transit times usually between 4 to 6 hours for direct flights from major airports like Dubai to Tunis.

Which payment methods are most secure and commonly used in trade transactions between the UAE and Tunisia?

The most secure and commonly used payment methods in trade transactions between the UAE and Tunisia include Letters of Credit (LCs), which offer a high level of security for both parties as the banks guarantee payment. Other common methods are bank transfers and documentary collections. These methods are favored for their reliability and the security they provide in international trade, ensuring that both exporters and importers meet their contractual obligations.