Using Preferential Trade Agreements
The EU has free trade agreements with many countries. These enable reduced duty rates or duty-free treatment – but only if you apply the rules correctly.
Important Agreements
The EU has preferential agreements with over 50 countries and regions:
- EFTA: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein (Duty-free)
- UK: TCA since Brexit
- Japan, South Korea, Canada: Comprehensive FTAs
- Turkey: Customs union for industrial goods
- GSP: Developing country preferences
Proof of Origin Required
To claim preferences, goods must originate in the partner country. This is proven by:
- EUR.1 or EUR-MED (official)
- Origin declaration on invoice
- REX system (registered exporters)
- A.TR movement certificate (Turkey)
⚠️ Without valid proof of origin, full third-country duty rates apply.