Medical Devices Import Duty & Landed Cost: South Korea to Australia
Full 2026 tariff breakdown, customs duty calculations, and compliance alerts for importing into Australia.
2026 Tariff & Cost Breakdown for Importing Medical Devices
Customs duty for Medical Devices imported into Australia is 8.5% of the CIF value in AUD. Additionally, a 20% VAT rate applies to the sum of the CIF value and customs duty. Duties are calculated on the CIF value, which includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Product Value | — | USD 15000.00 |
| Shipping | — | USD 1200.00 |
| Insurance | — | USD 150.00 |
| CIF Value | — | USD 16350.00 |
| Customs Duty | 8.5% | USD 1389.75 |
| VAT/GST | 20% | USD 3547.95 |
| Total Landed Cost | — | USD 21287.70 |
HS Code Classification for Medical Devices
Primary HS Code: 9018.90 — What It Covers
HS 9018.90 classifies Medical Devices such as orthopedic appliances and other medical instruments. This code is specific to devices that are not classified under other HS codes. The Australian Border Force enforces accurate HS code classification.
Why Misclassification Carries Risk in Australia
Misclassification of Medical Devices can lead to duty reassessment and potential fines enforced by the Australian Border Force. Accurate HS code classification is critical to avoid these penalties.
Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Medical Devices from South Korea to Australia
Step 1: Verify Your HS Code & Product Description
Use the Australia tariff lookup tool to verify the HS code for your Medical Devices. If available, obtain binding tariff information to ensure accuracy.
Step 2: Gather Required Import Documents
Commercial Invoice Requirements
The commercial invoice for Medical Devices imported into Australia must include the seller's name, buyer's name, description of goods, quantity, weight, and CIF value in AUD.
Certificate of Origin
A Certificate of Origin is required for Medical Devices imported from South Korea. The KAFTA origin certificate is accepted in Australia, and it must be in a specific format.
Packing List & Shipping Documents
The bill of lading or airway bill for Medical Devices imported into Australia must include specific details such as the shipper's name, consignee's name, and a detailed description of the goods.
Step 3: Calculate Your Landed Cost
The landed cost for Medical Devices imported into Australia is calculated as follows: CIF Value + Customs Duty (8.5% of CIF) + VAT/GST (20% of CIF + Duty) = Total Landed Cost in AUD.
Step 4: Submit to Australia Customs Authority
The Australian Border Force requires submission of the import declaration through their electronic declaration system. Additionally, the Therapeutic Goods Administration requires sponsors of Medical Devices to comply with the Essential Principles for safety and performance.
Step 5: Pay Duties & Clear Goods
Duties for Medical Devices imported into Australia can be paid through various methods, including online payment. The typical clearance timeline is a few days, but it may vary depending on the complexity of the shipment.
How to Legally Reduce Duty on Medical Devices Imports into Australia
Applicable Free Trade Agreements in 2026
The KAFTA provides preferential tariff treatment for eligible Medical Devices imported from South Korea, reducing the duty rate to 0% for qualifying products.
Duty Deferral Options: Bonded Warehouses & FTZs
The Customs Warehousing Procedure allows for duty deferral on Medical Devices imported into Australia, enabling importers to delay payment of duties until the goods are released into the market.
Preferential Tariff Programs
The DCS (Duty Credit Scheme) is a preferential tariff program available for Medical Devices imported into Australia, providing a duty credit for eligible importers.
Australia Customs Compliance Rules for Medical Devices
Australian Border Force Requirements for Medical Devices
The Australian Border Force requires TGA approval, ISO 13485, and CE marking certifications for Medical Devices imported into Australia. Accurate documentation and compliance with these requirements are enforced by the Australian Border Force.
De Minimis Threshold
The de minimis threshold for Medical Devices imported into Australia is 1000 AUD. If the CIF value of the shipment is below this threshold, no duties or taxes are payable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Devices Import Duty from South Korea to Australia
What is the duty rate for Medical Devices imported from South Korea to Australia?
The duty rate for Medical Devices imported from South Korea to Australia is 8.5% of the CIF value in AUD. However, eligible products under the KAFTA may qualify for a 0% duty rate.
What documents are required for importing Medical Devices into Australia?
The required documents for importing Medical Devices into Australia include a commercial invoice, Certificate of Origin, bill of lading or airway bill, and a packing list. Additional certifications such as TGA approval and ISO 13485 may also be required.
How do I determine if my Medical Devices are eligible for the KAFTA?
To determine if your Medical Devices are eligible for the KAFTA, you must verify that the products meet the rules of origin and other requirements specified in the agreement. Consult with a licensed customs broker or the Australian Border Force for guidance.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with Australian customs regulations for Medical Devices?
Penalties for non-compliance with Australian customs regulations for Medical Devices may include duty reassessment and potential fines enforced by the Australian Border Force. In severe cases, additional penalties such as detention of goods or prosecution may apply.
What is the typical clearance timeline for Medical Devices imported into Australia?
The typical clearance timeline for Medical Devices imported into Australia is a few days, but it may vary depending on the complexity of the shipment and the accuracy of the documentation submitted to the Australian Border Force.
Are there any specific requirements for labeling and packaging of Medical Devices imported into Australia?
Yes, the Therapeutic Goods Administration requires that Medical Devices imported into Australia comply with specific labeling and packaging requirements, including the use of approved terminology and conformity with Australian regulatory standards.