🇵🇸 Import Customs & Duties: Palestine
Quick Facts
Duty-free threshold
$50
Packages under $50, duty free
VAT / Sales Tax
15%
CIF value + duty. Rate aligned with Israeli VAT under Paris Protocol.
Clearance Time
3-30+ days
typical processing
Duty Rates by Category
| Category | Duty Rate | HS Chapter |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 0-12% (Paris Protocol, aligned with Israeli rates) | 85 |
| Clothing | 8-12% (Paris Protocol) | 61-62 |
| Footwear | 8-12% | 64 |
| Food & Beverages | 0-12% | 01-24 |
| Machinery | 0-8% | 84 |
| Cosmetics | 8-12% | 33 |
| Books | 0% | 49 |
| Toys & Games | 8-12% | 95 |
Rates shown are for standard goods. Exact rate depends on the HS code of your item.
Customs Clearance Process
Palestinian customs operates under the Paris Protocol (1994 economic agreement with Israel). Palestinian Authority applies same customs rates as Israel for most goods. ALL goods enter through Israeli-controlled crossings. West Bank imports via Israeli ports (Haifa/Ashdod); Gaza imports severely restricted through Kerem Abu Salem/Rafah. VAT at 16%.
What to Actually Expect
Extremely complex due to Israeli control of ALL borders. West Bank: goods transit through Israeli ports with significant delays and additional costs at checkpoints. Gaza: severe blockade restricts almost all imports, long waiting times, strict inspection, conflict periods halt all imports entirely. No direct international shipping to Palestinian territories. All express couriers route through Israel. Paris Protocol means Palestinian customs rates mirror Israeli ones, but PA has no control over border crossings. Clearance times completely unpredictable, can range from days to months.
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
Palestinian Authority issues import permits but Israel controls physical border crossings. Dual-use goods severely restricted by Israeli military. Many items banned for Gaza. West Bank has more flexibility than Gaza for imports.
Certificate of Origin
Issued by Palestinian Chambers of Commerce. Paris Protocol governs trade relations with Israel. EU Association Agreement provides preferential access for Palestinian exports.
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 Palestine
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty-free threshold for Palestine?
The duty-free (de minimis) threshold for imports into Palestine is $50. Goods valued below this amount are exempt from customs duties.
What is the VAT rate on imports to Palestine?
The VAT/tax rate on imports to Palestine is 15%. VAT applies to: CIF value + duty. Rate aligned with Israeli VAT under Paris Protocol.
How long does customs clearance take in Palestine?
Typical customs clearance in Palestine takes 3-30+ days. Express shipments usually clear faster.
What documents are needed to import into Palestine?
To import into Palestine, 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 Palestine?
Palestine 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.