Importing Iranian chickpeas in bulk to global destinations such as the European Union, Middle East, and Africa offers remarkable opportunities, but it also requires a deep understanding of customs regulations, documentation, and compliance standards. Whether you are an established importer or a new trader, mastering these logistics ensures that your cargo clears borders efficiently and reaches markets on time.

1. Understanding Customs Requirements in the EU

The European Union has some of the strictest food import regulations in the world. Importers must ensure that chickpeas meet EU food safety, traceability, and pesticide residue standards.

Key documents required include:

•    Certificate of Origin (Iran)

•    Phytosanitary Certificate issued by Iran’s Agricultural Ministry

•    Commercial Invoice & Packing List

•    Bill of Lading (B/L)

•    Health Certificate for non-GMO and allergen compliance

Additionally, chickpeas imported into the EU are subject to EU Customs Tariff Codes (HS Code: 0713.20), and importers must ensure that duties and VAT are correctly calculated before arrival at the destination port.

2. Middle Eastern Import Regulations

In the Middle East, Iranian chickpeas enjoy high demand due to their creamy texture and protein-rich profile. Countries like the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia follow GCC Standardization Organization (GSO) guidelines.

Importers typically require:

•    Halal Certification

•    Quality & Moisture Content Analysis Report

•    Origin Certificate approved by Iran Chamber of Commerce

Many ports in the Middle East, especially Jebel Ali (UAE), have streamlined customs clearance systems for agricultural imports, allowing bulk chickpea shipments to move swiftly once documents are verified.

3. African Market Import Regulations

African countries, including Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria, have rapidly growing demand for Iranian chickpeas due to their affordability and high quality.

To import chickpeas into Africa, buyers usually need:

•    Sanitary & Phytosanitary Certificates

•    Certificate of Analysis (COA) for aflatoxin and microbiological testing

•    Import Permit from the Ministry of Agriculture (country-specific)

Ports like Durban, Mombasa, and Lagos are major entry points, where customs authorities emphasize product labeling and compliance with Codex Alimentarius food standards.

4. Tariffs, Taxes, and Trade Agreements

Iranian chickpeas may benefit from preferential tariff rates in some markets under bilateral trade agreements. For example:

•    UAE and Iran trade under reduced tariffs through regional cooperation.

•    African countries importing under COMESA or ECOWAS may have special rates.

•    EU importers may pay duties of around 4–7%, depending on product type and processing.

Understanding these structures helps importers optimize costs and improve pricing competitiveness.

5. Tamila Agrifood’s Role in Smooth Customs Handling

At Tamila Agrifood Company, we don’t just export chickpeas, we ensure end-to-end logistics support.

Our team provides:

•    Pre-shipment documentation review

•    Coordination with Iranian customs authorities

•    Compliance with destination-country import rules

•    Certified laboratory reports (ISO, HACCP, Organic, Halal)

•    Assistance with freight forwarding and port delivery

This comprehensive approach guarantees that your chickpea shipments clear customs without delays or penalties.

6. Conclusion

Navigating customs clearance and import regulations for Iranian chickpeas doesn’t have to be complex. With the right partner, one that understands export laws, certification standards, and shipping logistics, you can access new markets smoothly and confidently.

Choose Tamila Agrifood as your trusted export partner to ensure your bulk chickpea imports comply with every regional regulation while maintaining premium quality from Iran to your destination.

 Email:  tamilaagrifood@gmail.com

Call / WhatsApp for Inquiries:  +989141858935