Exporting goods from Croatia requires binding to specific local and international regulations, acquisition of the required permits and logistics performance. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
Learn export regulations and legal requirements
EU membership: Exporting goods to other EU countries is easy and with no customs duty as it is in the EU. Customs procedures are needed when exporting to non-EU countries.
EORI number: You will also get an economic operator registration and Identification (EORI) number to be able to do business with customs authorities across the EU.
Export Licenses: However, some goods may be exported (armaments, dual-use goods and restricted goods). Only with an export licence provided by the Croatian Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development.
Prepare required documentation
Commercial Invoice: It specifies goods, buyer, seller and payment terms.
Packing List: It gives specifics on packaging, contents, and weights.
Customs declaration (SAD): The export outside the EU requires a Single Administrative Document.
Certificate of Origin: It certifies the origin of the goods, required for trade agreement benefits or destination country requirements.
Export Permits/Certificates: There are further permits for certain goods like food, pharmaceuticals or chemicals.
Transport documents: Sea freight: Bill of lading, air freight: airway bill, road transport: CMR.
Comply with duties and taxes
EU Exports: No duties for goods sent to other EU countries.
Non-EU Exports: Tariffs and VAT apply to goods in the destination country. For VAT refunds, documentation is needed. Croatia does not levy VAT on exports outside the EU.
Preferential tariffs: Taking advantage of lower or zero tariffs through the use of EU trade agreements in partner countries. Rules of origin must be ensured on goods.
Product specific requirements
Once you achieve this, you will ensure that any product-specific regulations are being complied with. Such as CE marking for electronics, health and safety certifications phytosanitary certificates for agricultural products and everything like that.
Logistics and transportation
Freight Forwarders: Use Croatian logistics companies with prior experience in international trade.
Incoterms: Define responsibilities for shipping, insurance and customs with the buyer using Incoterms for example: EXW, FOB, and CIF.
Transport options
- Sea Freight: Exports in bulk through ports such as Rijeka or Split.
- Air Freight: For high-value or urgent goods, use Zagreb Airport.
- Road Freight: Road transport is an efficient means of transport for European markets.
Customs clearance
To Croatian Customs (Carinska uprava) for non-EU exports submit all necessary documents. It includes the SAD form, export licenses and certificates. Classify goods correctly under the Harmonized System (HS) for proper duties and tariffs. Look out for customs inspections when you are carrying high-risk or regulated goods.
Payment methods and financial security
Secure payment options: For international transactions, letters of credit, bank guarantees and escrow accounts are to be used.
Export insurance: Use insurance policies to protect from buyer defaults, political risks or logistical issues of export.
Currency exchange management: Dealing with foreign currencies mitigates risks resulting from fluctuating exchange rates.
Utilize trade agreements
Croatia takes advantage of the EU free trade agreements with Canada (CETA), Japan and the UK (TCA). Tariffs and trade conditions can be checked in the EU Market Access Database.
Market research and entry strategy
Carry out research in the target market including consumer demand, regulatory requirements and competition.
Local preferences, sometimes include adapting the product for packaging and labelling standards.
Seek expert assistance
Croatian Chamber of Economy (HGK): It offers resources, export training, and market information. Croatian Exporters Association: Networking and support for exporters
EU Trade Helpdesk: A great resource for regulatory and market-specific information.
Continuous compliance and reporting
To abide by books of accounts of export transactions and VAT payments in compliance and external audits. You’ll stay up to date with changes to Croatian or destination market regulations which may affect exports.
Key resources
Customs administration of Croatia (Carinska uprava): Customs and export regulations main authority.
Croatian Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development: Licenses issues and trade complies. EU Market Access Database: For export markets outside the EU.
Doing this will make the export process from Croatia to the EU or international markets much easier.
You may also find these articles helpful
Exporting goods from Malaysia- full guide
Exporting goods from Sao Tome and Principe
