Importing, Exporting And Doing Business In France

France has the fifth largest economy in the world in terms of GDP. The country has a diverse industrial base ranging from telecommunications, shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, defence and automobile production. In addition to these sectors, international trade also plays a very important role in establishing the country's economic standing.

If you are considering importing or exporting your merchandise to France, it is necessary that you be aware of the local and national regulations regarding international trade. 

For instance, a common customs tariff applies to goods from countries that are not members of the European Union. Duties are ad valorem or percentage based and they include the approximate costs, freight value and insurance. A list of the contents of all packages in every shipment is a must have document.

Poultry, plants and animal products that are being exported or imported must always have health certificates that have been duly approved by the issuing authority from the country of origin. All documents for commercial and shipping purposes must be written in the French language.

Although it is possible to get into some industries in France for free, there are other sectors that require authorization from the Ministry of Economy. An example of this would be the production and sale of weaponry. This is because France is one of the founding members of the European Union, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and the World Trade Organization is therefore subject to the European Union Free Trade Agreements. 

The majority of the customs regulations in France were enforced by the European Union and it is advisable that all those interested in doing business with France be aware of these laws. Some of these regulations insist that the values of goods are determined by the declared purchase value of the European Customs Code. EU member states are given common tariffs whereas non-EU members are subjected to different regulations.

The European Union also established a Community Integrated Tariff system under which, custom duties are applied to goods from non-EU countries. Agricultural products are subjected to the Common Agricultural policy or CAP, which applies variable charges on different goods to equalize their prices will local products. However, aside from the import taxes there are not many import barriers.

France has developed a network of free trade agreements, preferential trade agreements, special trade agreements and customs union agreements with several countries. Therefore, it is important for those wishing to do business in France to be well informed about all these factors before moving forward with their business venture.

Other countries:

• Business with Finland.
• Russian trade opportunities.
• Getting involved with the Chinese market.

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