Importing Goods

Goods can be imported into New Zealand easily. No import licences are required, although tariffs arise on a range of products (tariffs being New Zealand’s main trade protection mechanism). Tariffs are still fairly high in relation to some goods, such as clothing and footwear. New Zealand is a party to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT).

No other charges apply exclusively to imported products, although GST is generally charged on all imported goods (normally payable when the goods are cleared through customs). GST is discussed in section 7 of this guide. Parallel imports of nearly all goods are permitted.