ArmInfo. From April 1, 2024, the threshold for duty-free import of goods in Armenia will be lowered to 200 euros (about 85 thousand drams) against the current 200 thousand drams, reports the press service of the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Armenia.
The EAEU currently has an increased threshold for duty-free import of goods purchased by individuals through online trading at the level of 1 thousand euros (the maximum parcel weight is 31 kg). The decision to increase the threshold was made in March 2022 against the background of the introduction of sanctions. Last September, the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) extended this measure until April 1, 2024.
Before the increase, the threshold for duty-free import of goods into the EAEU within the framework of e- commerce was 200 euros (the weight limit was also 31 kg). In case of exceeding the weight or cost norm, the duty for goods transported by a carrier or by post is 15% of the order value, but not less than 2 euros per 1 kg. For goods imported as luggage, the duty is 30% of the cost, but not less than 4 euros per 1 kg.
However, the EEC decision, in fact, did not affect the Republic of Armenia. Domestic customs officers, due to their initiative, decided to take advantage of a legislative loophole, namely, the opportunity provided by the decision of the Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission to the Union member states to establish more stringent price, weight and (or) quantitative standards. As a result, the threshold for duty- free purchases in foreign online stores in the territory of the Republic of Armenia was set at 200 thousand drams instead of the proposed 1 thousand euros.
Thus, if the ceiling for duty-free import of goods in other EAEU countries decreases five times, in Armenia it will be "less painful."
