How to Import from China to UAE

The UAE is one of China’s largest trading partners among Arab countries. With the advancement of the “Belt and Road” initiative, the trade volume between the two countries has continued to grow. A large number of goods are imported from China, but importing from China is a complicated and cumbersome process. This article will introduce in detail how to import goods from China to the UAE.

Precautions for Importing from China

When importing goods from China to the UAE, there are precautions that need special attention to ensure that the entire process is smooth and compliant.

• Understand UAE customs regulations: Confirm whether a specific import license is required, especially for certain products (such as food, medicine, chemicals). Understand the UAE’s tariff policy and the application of value-added tax (VAT)
• Product compliance: Ensure that the imported products meet the quality standards and regulatory requirements of the UAE, and provide relevant certifications (such as GSO standards) when necessary. Ensure that product labels comply with UAE regulations, including language and content requirements
• Logistics selection: Choose the appropriate mode of transportation (sea, air) based on the nature, volume and timeliness of the goods. Choose an experienced freight forwarder to assist in handling logistics and customs matters
• Cargo insurance: Consider insuring the goods to prevent loss or damage during transportation

Benefits of Importing from China

Importing from China to the UAE has many advantages:

• Cost advantage: Products made in China are relatively cheap and cost-effective.
• Rich and diverse products: China has a wide variety of goods that can meet the diverse needs of the UAE market.
• Mature supply chain: China’s logistics and supply chain systems are relatively complete and can provide efficient services.
• Innovation ability: China continues to make progress in technology and product innovation to adapt to market changes.

Import Process from China to UAE

The basic process of importing from China to UAE includes the following steps:

Supplier selection
Determine the type, quantity and specifications of the products that need to be imported. Select a reputable Chinese supplier and conduct a background check

Sign a contract
Discuss price, delivery time, payment method, mode of transportation, etc. with the supplier. Make sure the contract terms are clear and include all necessary details

Prepare documents

• Bill of lading: Proof that the goods are delivered to the carrier during the sea transportation process.
• Commercial invoice: Commodity price and transaction details.
• Packing list: Goods list, packaging details.
• Certificate of origin: Proof of the country of production of the goods.
• Customs clearance authorization: Authorize the freight forwarding company to handle customs clearance procedures.

Select logistics and transportation methods
Depending on the timeliness and characteristics of the goods, choose the appropriate mode of transportation to transport the goods from China to the UAE.

Customs clearance preparation
Carry out import customs clearance in the UAE and ensure that all necessary documents are submitted and customs duties are paid.

Pickup and Transportation
Pick up the goods after customs clearance at UAE ports and arrange transportation of the goods to the final destination.

Shipping from China to UAE

The main modes of transportation from China to the UAE are sea and air. For bulk commodities, sea transport is the most common choice; for urgently needed goods, air transport is more suitable.

Sea freight
Suitable for large quantities of goods, with lower transportation costs, but longer transportation time, usually shipped from Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo Port, and destined for Dubai Port or Abu Dhabi Port. Usually takes 20-30 days

Air freight
Air transport is the fastest mode of transportation, suitable for urgently needed light goods, although the cost is higher, but the transportation time is shorter. It usually takes 3-7 days from major airports in China (such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc.) to reach the international airport in the UAE through transshipment.

Cost of Shipping 20ft and 40ft Containers from China to UAE

Container shipping is the main mode of transportation from China to the UAE. The following is the cost range of 20ft and 40ft containers under normal circumstances. Since shipping prices change all the time, the prices are different every week. If you want to know the detailed costs, you can contact Ubest Shipping and we will reply you within 24 hours!

If you want to know the container shipping prices in the surrounding areas:

• Shipping Costs for 20ft And 40ft Containers from China to Iraq
• Cost of Shipping 20ft and 40ft Containers from China to Qatar
• Cost of 20ft and 40ft Container Shipping From China To Kuwait
• Cost of Shipping 20ft and 40ft Containers from China to Saudi Arabia
• Cost of Shipping 20ft & 40ft Containers from China to Egypt
• Cost of Shipping 20FT and 40FT Containers from China to Israel
• Cost of Shipping 20ft and 40ft Containers from China to Iran
• Cost of Shipping 20ft and 40ft Containers from China to Jordan

Tax Rates for Imports from China to UAE

The tax rate calculation for imports from China to the UAE mainly includes tariffs and value-added tax (VAT). Here is the specific calculation method:

Tariffs

• Tax rate: The tariff rate in the UAE is usually between 0% and 5%, and the specific tax rate depends on the category of imported goods. Certain specific goods may enjoy duty-free or lower tariffs.
• Calculation method: Tariffs are calculated based on the landed price (CIF price), which is the sum of the cost, insurance and freight of the goods.
• Calculation formula: Tariff = CIF price × tariff rate

Value-added tax (VAT)

• Tax rate: The standard VAT rate in the UAE is 5%.
• Calculation method: VAT is calculated based on the sum of CIF price plus tariff.
• Calculation formula: VAT = (CIF price + tariff) × 5%

Total tax calculation

The final total tax calculation formula for imports from China to the UAE is: Total tax = tariff + VAT

Notes

• Commodity classification: Make sure to accurately understand the HS code of the imported goods in order to confirm the applicable tariffs and tax rates.
• Customs Declaration: During the import process, accurately complete the customs declaration form and provide all necessary documentation to avoid unnecessary delays and fines.

Goods Prohibited from Import into UAE

During the import process, special attention should be paid to the following prohibited goods to avoid legal problems:

• Religious and culturally sensitive materials: goods that may offend local culture or religion, especially those that are contrary to Islamic teachings
• Environmentally hazardous substances: including harmful chemicals, plastic products and other materials that may pollute the environment
• Fake and counterfeit goods: any goods that infringe intellectual property rights, including counterfeit brand clothing, footwear, accessories, etc.
• Specific animals and plants: certain protected animals and plants and their products, in accordance with international and local environmental regulations.
• Certain foods: including unapproved foods, expired foods and foods that may be harmful to health. Certain animal products (such as certain types of meat) may also be restricted.

Make sure the imported goods comply with UAE regulations to avoid unnecessary trouble.

The process of importing from China to the UAE involves many aspects. Hopefully, this article will provide you with clear guidance and help you conduct international trade smoothly.