🇾🇪 Import Customs & Duties: Yemen
Quick Facts
Duty-free threshold
$50
Packages under $50, duty free
VAT / Sales Tax
15%
GST at 5% nominally. Collection inconsistent due to conflict. Different rates in different zones.
Clearance Time
7-30+ (extremely variable) days
typical processing
Duty Rates by Category
| Category | Duty Rate | HS Chapter |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 5-15% | 85 |
| Clothing | 5-25% | 61-62 |
| Footwear | 5-25% | 64 |
| Food & Beverages | 0-25% | 01-24 |
| Machinery | 0-10% | 84 |
| Cosmetics | 5-15% | 33 |
| Books | 0% | 49 |
| Toys & Games | 5-15% | 95 |
Rates shown are for standard goods. Exact rate depends on the HS code of your item.
Customs Clearance Process
Yemen Customs Authority manages imports in government-controlled areas. War since 2014 has split the country, Houthi-controlled north (Sanaa, Hodeidah) and internationally recognized government in south (Aden). GST at 5% on imports. Aden port is partially operational for the recognized government. Hodeidah port (main food import point) under UN monitoring. Different customs regimes in different zones.
What to Actually Expect
WAR ZONE since 2014. Country split between Houthi north and recognized government south. Aden port partially operational but damaged. Hodeidah port (Red Sea) handles most food imports under UN monitoring/Stockholm Agreement. Sanaa airport closed to commercial flights. Major couriers DO NOT serve Yemen. DHL has extremely limited service via Aden/Djibouti. No functioning postal system. Saudi-led coalition (until 2023 truce) imposed import restrictions. Yemeni rial in freefall. World's worst humanitarian crisis, most imports are aid. Red Sea shipping disruptions from Houthi attacks on commercial vessels affect ALL Yemen-bound cargo.
Required Documents
Commercial Invoice
Item description, quantity, value, sender and receiver details
Packing List
Detailed description of contents in each package
Customs Declaration (CN22/CN23)
Required for postal shipments
Air Waybill (AWB)
Generated by the carrier when booking the shipment
Certificate of Origin
May be required for reduced duties (FTA/preferential rates)
Export/Import License
For restricted goods (electronics, medicines, chemicals)
Import License Requirements
Alcohol prohibited (Islamic law). Weapons heavily restricted (officially). Pharmaceuticals require health ministry approval. Most imports are humanitarian aid and basic food staples. Different requirements in Houthi vs government areas.
Certificate of Origin
Yemeni Chambers of Commerce (different in Aden vs Sanaa). GAFTA membership for Arab trade. Very limited international trade agreements functioning.
Prohibited & Restricted Items
Prohibited
- xNarcotics and illegal drugs
- xExplosives and flammable materials
- xWeapons and ammunition
- xCounterfeit goods
- xCounterfeit currency and documents
Restricted (permit required)
- !Medicines and pharmaceuticals
- !Food and beverages
- !Plants and seeds
- !Electronics (lithium batteries)
- !Perfumes and cosmetics (volume limits)
Useful Links
Popular routes to Yemen
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty-free threshold for Yemen?
The duty-free (de minimis) threshold for imports into Yemen is $50. Goods valued below this amount are exempt from customs duties.
What is the VAT rate on imports to Yemen?
The VAT/tax rate on imports to Yemen is 15%. VAT applies to: GST at 5% nominally. Collection inconsistent due to conflict. Different rates in different zones.
How long does customs clearance take in Yemen?
Typical customs clearance in Yemen takes 7-30+ (extremely variable) days. Express shipments usually clear faster.
What documents are needed to import into Yemen?
To import into Yemen, you typically need: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill, and customs declaration. Some goods may require a certificate of origin or import license.
What items are prohibited from import into Yemen?
Yemen prohibits the import of narcotics, weapons, counterfeit goods, certain animal products, and hazardous materials. Restrictions may also apply to alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, and certain electronics.