Iraq’s General Customs Authority has announced new rules for how the customs value of imported goods will be calculated. These rules will now apply at all customs centers across the country.
Under the new system, customs officials will rely on the value listed in official commercial invoices that are submitted through the advance declaration system. These invoices must be supported by proof of bank transfers at the time of customs clearance.
For goods that are not declared in advance and do not have bank transfer documents, customs authorities will use the values already recorded in the General Commission for Customs’ official records.
The Authority also said that importers can request a review or amendment of the customs value recorded in official records. However, such requests must be backed by formal documents and clear evidence. The valuation department is required to issue a decision within three working days, in line with customs law and relevant international rules.
In addition, Iraqi banks will now play a bigger role. Under the supervision of the Central Bank of Iraq, banks will verify the accuracy of the information in commercial invoices used for foreign transfers, including the declared value of goods.
The Commission said these new measures are meant to improve transparency, organize customs procedures, protect public money, and create a more stable trading environment. It added that the decision supports the government’s broader financial and economic reform plans.
According to the statement, the changes are based on the amended Customs Law No. 23 of 1984 and Cabinet Decision No. 569 of 2025, and they follow internationally recognized standards.
