Steel and Aluminum Import Duty & Landed Cost: China to Saudi Arabia

2026 Tariff & Cost Breakdown for Importing Steel and Aluminum

For Steel and Aluminum imports into Saudi Arabia, the total cost includes the 8.5% customs duty rate and 20% VAT rate, calculated on the CIF value in SAR. The General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs enforces these rates, and understanding them is key to calculating the total landed cost of importing Steel and Aluminum from China to Saudi Arabia in 2026.

HS Code Classification for Steel and Aluminum

Primary HS Code: 7210.49 — What It Covers

HS 7210.49 classifies specific types of Steel and Aluminum products, including those imported from China. Accurate classification is critical for compliance and duty calculation. The General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs requires precise HS code classification for all imports.

Why Misclassification Carries Risk in Saudi Arabia

Misclassification of Steel and Aluminum products can lead to duty reassessment and fines enforced by the General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs. This emphasizes the need for accurate HS code classification to avoid penalties.

Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Steel and Aluminum from China to Saudi Arabia

Step 1: Verify Your HS Code & Product Description

Use the Saudi Arabia tariff lookup tool to verify the HS code and ensure compliance with Steel and Aluminum import regulations. Binding tariff information may be available for specific products.

Step 2: Gather Required Import Documents

Commercial Invoice Requirements

A commercial invoice for Steel and Aluminum imports must include the HS code, product description, quantity, weight, and value in SAR, among other details required by the General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs.

Certificate of Origin

A Certificate of Origin is required for Steel and Aluminum imports from China, and Saudi Arabia accepts the specific format that includes the country of origin and other compliance details.

Packing List & Shipping Documents

The bill of lading or airway bill must be accurate and include specific Saudi Arabia requirements, such as the weight and dimensions of the Steel and Aluminum shipment.

Step 3: Calculate Your Landed Cost

Calculate the total landed cost using the formula: CIF Value + Customs Duty (8.5% of CIF) + VAT/GST (20% of CIF + Duty) = Total Landed Cost in SAR.

Step 4: Submit to Saudi Arabia Customs Authority

Submit all required documents, including the commercial invoice, Certificate of Origin, and packing list, to the General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs through their declaration system. A Certificate of Conformity for Steel and Aluminum products, obtained from an accredited certification body, is also required.

Step 5: Pay Duties & Clear Goods

Pay the calculated duties and VAT using accepted payment methods, and clear the goods through customs. The typical clearance timeline varies depending on the complexity of the shipment and compliance with all regulations.

How to Legally Reduce Duty on Steel and Aluminum Imports into Saudi Arabia

Applicable Free Trade Agreements in 2026

No bilateral Free Trade Agreement exists between China and Saudi Arabia as of 2026, meaning that Steel and Aluminum imports from China are subject to the standard duty rates.

Duty Deferral Options: Bonded Warehouses & FTZs

The Saudi Customs Warehousing Procedure allows for duty deferral on Steel and Aluminum imports stored in bonded warehouses, potentially reducing upfront costs for importers.

Preferential Tariff Programs

No preferential tariff programs currently apply to Steel and Aluminum imports from China, so importers must pay the standard 8.5% duty rate.

Saudi Arabia Customs Compliance Rules for Steel and Aluminum

General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs Requirements for Steel and Aluminum

The General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs requires specific filings and documentation for Steel and Aluminum imports, including SASO and G-Mark certifications to ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia's regulatory requirements.

De Minimis Threshold

The de minimis threshold in Saudi Arabia is 1000 SAR, below which certain import regulations and duties may not apply, but this does not exempt Steel and Aluminum imports from other compliance requirements.

Anti-Dumping or Safeguard Duties

Anti-dumping duties may apply to certain Steel and Aluminum products from China, so importers should verify with their customs broker for specific details to avoid additional duties.

Frequently Asked Questions About Steel and Aluminum Import Duty from China to Saudi Arabia

Rates are based on 2026 tariff schedules. Verify with a licensed customs broker before making import decisions.