Duty and VAT
Apparel entering the EU is subject to the common external tariff, commonly around 12% for most garment categories, plus import VAT at the national rate. Pakistan is a beneficiary of the EU GSP+ arrangement, under which many apparel lines enter at a reduced or zero duty rate when accompanied by valid proof of origin. Entitlement depends on the specific commodity code and on current arrangements, so confirm the rate for your product with your customs broker before costing. French import VAT is charged on the customs value plus duty and freight, and is recoverable by VAT-registered businesses through the normal return.
Labelling in French
France applies the EU textile labelling rules, which require fibre composition on a permanently attached label. Composition and care information must be given in French for goods sold to French consumers. We produce care labels in the languages you specify as part of the production run, so goods arrive ready for sale rather than needing relabelling. See labels and trims.
Shipping
Sea freight from Karachi reaches Le Havre or Marseille-Fos in roughly 25 to 35 days depending on routing and transhipment, plus port and inland time. Air freight is 5 to 10 days and is normally used for sampling or for the first weeks of stock while the main shipment sails.
What French brands usually order
Fashion and ready-to-wear ranges, tees, hoodies and leather apparel. We quote FOB Karachi by default so you can use your own forwarder; see FOB, EXW and CIF.
Working with us from France
Quotes, specifications and correspondence are in English. We reply within one working day, Pakistan time is UTC+5, so a morning message from France reaches us the same working day.
Finished garments checked before export to France
Questions buyers ask
What duty applies to clothing imported into France?
The EU common external tariff, commonly around 12% for garments, plus French import VAT. Reduced rates may apply under GSP+ with valid proof of origin, so confirm the rate for your commodity code with your broker.
Do labels need to be in French?
Composition and care information must be given in French for goods sold to French consumers. We print labels in the languages you specify during production.
How long does shipping take to France?
Roughly 25 to 35 days by sea to Le Havre or Marseille-Fos, or 5 to 10 days by air.