For businesses engaged in international trade, understanding Azerbaijan's customs procedures is essential for smooth operations. Whether you're importing raw materials or exporting finished products, proper knowledge of customs regulations can save you time, money, and potential legal complications.
Key Customs Documentation
Every import or export operation requires specific documentation:
- Customs Declaration — The primary document filed with the State Customs Committee
- Commercial Invoice — Detailing the value, quantity, and description of goods
- Certificate of Origin — Proving where the goods were manufactured
- Transport Documents — Bill of lading, airway bill, or CMR depending on the mode of transport
- Packing List — Detailed description of package contents
Customs Valuation
Azerbaijan follows the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement. The transaction value method is the primary basis for customs valuation. Understanding how customs duty is calculated helps businesses plan their costs accurately.
Free Economic Zones
Azerbaijan has established Free Economic Zones that offer significant customs advantages, including duty-free import of goods for processing and re-export. The Alat Free Economic Zone, located near the Baku International Sea Trade Port, is particularly attractive for logistics and manufacturing businesses.
Common Challenges
Businesses frequently encounter challenges with customs classification of goods, valuation disputes, and documentation errors that lead to delays. Working with experienced customs consultants can help avoid these issues.
Civillex Customs Services
At Civillex LLC, our customs specialists provide end-to-end support for import-export operations. From customs classification and valuation to clearance and post-clearance audits, we ensure your international trade operations run smoothly and in full compliance with Azerbaijan's customs regulations.
