Chad Import Duties & Taxes Explained

No, the $800 de minimis threshold does not apply to imports into Chad. For your shipment arriving in Chad, taxes apply from the first dollar with a very low de minimis threshold of approximately $20 USD, meaning most consumer goods will incur import charges regardless of value.

Most consumer goods like electronics and clothing are subject to a 30% customs duty under the CEMAC Common External Tariff. This rate applies to items originating outside the Central African Economic and Monetary Community region.

Chad collects a 4% Advance Income Tax (Precompte) on imported goods at the border. This prepayment of income tax is charged on the CIF value of your shipment, separate from the 18% Import VAT and 30% customs duty that may also apply.

Chad charges an 18% import VAT calculated on the CIF value plus customs duty and other levies, excluding the Advance Income Tax. This means your tax burden increases as the total landed cost of your package rises.

You will also pay a 2% Statistical Tax, approximately 1.45% in CEMAC regional levies, and a 4% Advance Income Tax on the CIF value. These are standard charges collected alongside your main duties.

Certain high-end electronics, audiovisual equipment, and air conditioners may incur an additional 20% Excise Tax. Check with your carrier if your specific items fall into this category.

Chadian Customs (Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects) collects all duties and taxes upon arrival. Your carrier will typically handle the payment process on your behalf before delivery.

Yes, carriers like DHL or FedEx usually charge a fee for advancing duties and processing customs paperwork. This is often around 2% of the total tax amount or a flat minimum of 10,000–15,000 XAF.

Customs uses the CIF value, which includes the cost of goods plus insurance and freight charges. If insurance isn't listed, customs may estimate it by adding a standard percentage to your declared value.

Ensure your commercial invoice clearly matches the physical contents of your package, as Chad uses a largely manual paper-based system. Inaccurate or missing details can cause delays at the border.