Customs Laws and Regulations
The State Customs Service (SCS) under the Ministry of Finance is the primary authority responsible for regulating the import, export, transit, and customs clearance of goods in the country. The country is a member of the EAEU, and its customs regulations align with the EAEU Customs Code, which took effect on January 1, 2018. As such, customs procedures, tariff schedules, and technical regulations are harmonized across EAEU member states.
Import Licensing Requirements
Most goods can be freely imported into the Kyrgyz Republic; however, some categories – such as pharmaceuticals, alcohol, tobacco, weapons, and certain chemicals – require licenses or special permits. Import licenses are issued by the relevant line ministries (e.g., the Ministry of Health for pharmaceuticals) and must be presented during customs clearance. U.S. exporters should consult with their local importers to confirm whether their products require import licenses.
Advance Ruling Procedures
Importers may request advance rulings on tariff classification and customs valuation from the SCS. These rulings are binding and help ensure predictability in customs treatment. Requests must be submitted in writing, along with product descriptions, technical documentation, and supporting materials. Advance rulings are typically issued within 30 calendar days.
Customs Procedures and Documentation
The Kyrgyz Republic uses the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA World) platform for electronic customs declarations. Required documentation includes:
• Customs declaration form (filled via ASYCUDA)
• Commercial invoice
• Bill of lading or airway bill
• Packing list
• Certificate of origin (if preferential tariff treatment is claimed)
• Import license or permit (if applicable)
• Certificate of conformity (for regulated products)
Duties, Taxes, and Fees
As part of the EAEU, the Kyrgyz Republic applies a common external tariff. Most customs duties range between 0 and 10 percent, though rates can be higher for certain goods. In addition to customs duties, imports are subject to:
• Value Added Tax (VAT) of 12 percent
• Excise tax (applied to alcohol, tobacco, and fuel)
• Customs processing fee (0.2 percent of the customs value, minimum KGS 500)
Classification and Valuation Rules
Goods are classified using the EAEU Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS code). Customs valuation is primarily based on the transaction value method but may shift to alternative methods (e.g., deductive or computed value) if the declared value is deemed inaccurate.
Rules of Origin
Rules of origin for preferential trade agreements (e.g., GSP, EAEU FTAs) follow either bilateral or multilateral agreements. Exporters claiming preferences must provide a valid certificate of origin (e.g., Form A for GSP countries). The EAEU maintains common rules of origin, and the Kyrgyz Republic adheres to these guidelines for intra-union and external trade.
Appeals and Review Procedures
Decisions by customs authorities may be appealed administratively or through the court system. Administrative appeals are submitted to SCS within 30 calendar days of notification. Legal challenges may be filed with the Economic Court of Bishkek.
Online Resources and Contact Information
The SCS of the Kyrgyz Republic maintains a website (primarily in Russian) with up-to-date information on customs regulations, tariffs, procedures, and downloadable forms.
Website: https://www.customs.gov.kg
Phone: +996 (312) 54-67-03
Email: info@customs.gov.kg
Address: 4-A Baytik Baatyr St., Bishkek, 720060, Kyrgyz Republic