Import Regulations – France

Commercial connections, both trade and investment, between Australia and France are substantial but with the balance firmly in France’s favour. France is currently Australia’s 15th largest merchandise trading partner.

Import tariffs
France is a member of the European Union and gives preference to associate members of the Union, developing countries and European Free Trade Association – EFTA, members. If you are looking to sell your products in France, you should be aware of the following: EU Directives must be met in addition to all local (and national) regulations in France; Common Customs Tariff – CCT, is applicable to goods from non-EU member-states, including Australia; the majority of duties are ad valorem (%), based on the GATT Valuation Code – approximate cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value; there are no specific requirements for the Bill of Lading, and “To Order” bills are acceptable; a packing list is compulsory if the shipment contains more than one package and if the contents of each package are not shown on the commercial invoice; in all circumstances a packing list facilitates clearance and all discounts must be clearly shown; digital signatures are now recognised as a legal instrument for most commercial transactions.

Documentary requirements
All commercial and shipping documents must be in the French language.

Commercial invoice
There is no prescribed form, and three copies are required. The invoice must be certified and signed by the exporter and contain:
• The names and addresses of the buyer and seller
• A full description of the merchandise
• Quantity
• Terms of sale
• Unit price and total value - including all costs up to CIF (Incoterm 1990).

Bill of lading/airway bill
Normal commercial practice. To Order shipments are permitted.

Certificate of origin
Certificates of origin are required for:
• Goods processed in countries enjoying preferential tariff treatment over the original country of origin.
• A wide range of textile articles, natural mineral waters, wool carpets and wines prepared with aromatic substances.