How do I calculate import duties and VAT for goods shipped from China to Russia?
Import duties and VAT in Russia are calculated based on the customs value of the goods. Here is the step-by-step process: Step 1 — Determine the HS code (ТН ВЭД). The 10-digit code determines the duty rate (0–25% depending on the product category) and VAT rate (0%, 10%, or 20%). Step 2 — Calculate customs value. If your terms are FOB: customs value = FOB price + ocean freight to the Russian border + insurance. If CIF: customs value = invoice price (freight and insurance already included). Step 3 — Calculate import duty: customs value × duty rate %. Step 4 — Calculate VAT: (customs value + duty) × VAT rate (usually 20%). Step 5 — Add customs clearance fee (fixed, based on customs value, ranges from ₽1,067 to ₽34,589). Example: goods worth $10,000 FOB + $1,200 freight + $100 insurance = $11,300 customs value. At duty rate 5% and VAT 20%: duty = $565, VAT = ($11,300 + $565) × 20% = $2,373. Total customs payments: ~$2,938. For companies on the general tax regime (OSNO), import VAT is recoverable as input tax upon customs clearance.