China Customs Duty Rates: What You Need to Know as of 2025

China's Customs Duty Rates: What You Need to Know by 2025
While China remains one of the most important players in global trade, the customs duty rates applied to imports and exports to the country are of strategic importance for trading companies. As of 2025, some updates have been made to China's customs tariffs. This article provides information on both sector-based tax rates and details to consider during the transaction process.

Customs Duty Applications for Imports to China
Import duties are often the first barrier companies face when sending products to China. These duties vary depending on the type of product, its country of origin, and its classification in China.

General Tax Types:
Customs Duty (Tariff Duty): Can range from 0% to 100%.

VAT (VAT): Generally applied between 13% and 17%.

Consumption Tax: Applies additionally to products such as alcohol, tobacco, and cosmetics.

For example: While the average customs duty on electronic products is around 10–15%, this rate can range from 5–12% for textiles.

Customs Duty Practices on Exports from China
While China generally avoids imposing direct taxes on exports, export taxes may be imposed on certain sensitive sectors (e.g., rare earth elements, some metals, chemicals). These taxes are generally implemented to conserve resources and support domestic production.

Sectoral Practices to Be Considered in 2025:

High-technology products: Customs clearance is facilitated.

Products that may harm the environment: Tax rates are increased.

Agricultural and food products: Certain additional documents are required due to food safety concerns.

Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Reduced Rates
China has FTAs with many countries. Under these agreements, customs duties can be reduced or eliminated for certain products.

Some Advantageous Agreements:
ASEAN countries

South Korea

New Zealand

Chile

Pakistan

Countries within the RCEP

When a certificate of origin (CO) is presented in trade with these countries, products can be imported/exported with a reduced tax rate or tax-free.

How Does the Customs Process Work in Trade with China?
Determining the product's GTIP code

Calculating tax based on country of origin

Preparing the necessary documents (invoice, packing list, CO, CE certificate, etc.)

Approval by the Chinese Customs Administration

Payment of VAT and any additional taxes

Who Should Consider This Information?
Companies exporting from Türkiye to China

Foreign trade companies importing products from China

Logistics and customs consultancy firms

Investors and distributors

Conclusion
While customs duty rates in China as of 2025 vary by sector, they aim to guide trade rather than hinder it. Therefore, with the correct product classification and documentation, entering the Chinese market remains quite attractive. A thorough understanding of this tax structure is crucial for a profitable long-term business model.