Export duty

In the EAEU Customs Code, it is referred to as an export customs duty. Import duties are common across the union, but each country sets its own export duties. In Russia, the rates and the list of goods are determined by the government.

Why it is introduced

An export duty holds back exports of goods that are in short supply at home, raises budget revenue when world prices are high and supports domestic processing. It is most often applied to raw materials: oil and petroleum products, grain, metals, timber. The list changes regularly, and rates can be temporary.

How it is calculated

The rate can be ad valorem (a percentage of the customs value), specific (an amount per ton or other unit) or combined. For some goods, the rate is linked to the world price and recalculated regularly. More on the percentage rate: ad valorem duty.

The duty is paid in roubles during export customs clearance, before the goods are released. Foreign currency amounts are converted at the Bank of Russia rate on the day the declaration is registered.

What to watch for

An exporter should check whether the goods are subject to duty on the date of export, not on the date of the contract. The rate is determined by the TN VED code, and an error in it leads to additional charges. Build the duty into the contract price, otherwise it will eat into the margin. Separately, check whether the goods require a permit under export control rules.

The duty is paid in Russia separately from settlements with the buyer, and its amount does not depend on how you receive the proceeds: directly or through an agent. How to get paid if a foreign buyer cannot pay directly is described on the Repatriation of export proceeds page.