How to import coffee into Spain: requirements, documents and costs step by step

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Importing coffee into Spain
2. What type of coffee do you want to import?
3. Requirements and necessary documentation
4. Health and customs controls
5. Costs and taxes when importing coffee
6. Estimated times and logistics steps
7. Common mistakes when importing coffee (and how to avoid them)
8. Conclusion

Spain is one of the main coffee consumers in Europe, making it an attractive market for importing this product. However, although coffee is one of the most imported products in the country, the import process is subject to strict regulations. In this article, we will not only explore how to import coffee into Spain, but also provide you with a practical guide to the procedures and documents required to do so legally and efficiently.

Introduction: importing coffee into Spain

Coffee is a highly demanded product in Spain, with millions of kilos imported every year to meet the local market’s needs. Despite this high demand, coffee imports are regulated by strict customs and health regulations, which must be complied with in order to avoid customs issues and guarantee food safety. This article is designed to help companies or entrepreneurs who wish to import coffee into Spain understand the essential requirements and processes to do so correctly.

What type of coffee do you want to import?

One of the first decisions you will make when importing coffee is determining what type of coffee you want to bring into Spain. The three most common types are:

• Green coffee: This is unroasted coffee bean, as harvested. This type of coffee requires additional phytosanitary and quality controls, as it is considered an agricultural product.
• Roasted coffee: This is coffee that has already been processed and has a different tariff code from green coffee. Although it does not require phytosanitary controls, it is still subject to other regulations.
• Soluble coffee: This type of coffee has already been processed and is easier to import, but it must still comply with certain regulations.

The TARIC code (tariff code) for each type of coffee varies, and it is crucial to classify the product correctly to avoid possible incidents and penalties. Make sure you have professional advice to identify the correct tariff classification.

Requirements and necessary documentation

Once you have decided what type of coffee you want to import, you will need to make sure you comply with a series of requirements and submit the necessary documentation. The main documents include:

• Importer’s EORI: The EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is essential for carrying out any customs operation. It is required for the import declaration and for completing customs procedures.
• SAD (Single Administrative Document): The SAD is the form you must submit for importing goods into Spain. This document is linked to customs regulations and provides detailed information about the imported goods.
• Certificate of Origin (Form A or EUR.1): This certificate is required to confirm the origin of the coffee and is necessary to apply tariff preferences depending on the trade agreement with the country of origin.
• Phytosanitary Certificate and SOIVRE Control (only for green coffee): Green coffee, as an agricultural product, must comply with phytosanitary requirements and be inspected by the SOIVRE system (Official Service for the Inspection, Surveillance and Regulation of Export Products).
• CHED-D (Common Health Entry Document): In some cases, if the coffee is considered a high-risk food product, it is necessary to submit a health certificate guaranteeing that the product complies with food safety standards.

Health and customs controls

Coffee imports are subject to both health and customs controls. If you are importing green coffee, phytosanitary controls are especially important, as the bean may be exposed to pests or diseases during transport. In addition, health control services will verify that the coffee complies with food and safety regulations in the European Union.

Costs and taxes when importing coffee

Importing coffee involves several costs that must be considered before starting the process. Some of the main costs include:

• Customs duties: The duty payable will depend on the type of coffee and its TARIC code. Duties vary depending on the country of origin and the trade agreements between the EU and that country.
• VAT: Coffee is subject to VAT (Value Added Tax) upon entry into Spain. The VAT rate may vary depending on whether the coffee is roasted, green or soluble.
• Transport and storage costs: Although transport costs may vary, port storage is also an expense to take into account. You must plan how long your goods will remain in customs to avoid additional charges.

Approximate example: If you import 1,000 kg of green coffee from Brazil, transport, customs duties and VAT costs may range between €1,500 and €2,500, depending on the route and associated expenses.

Estimated times and logistics steps

The coffee import process is not immediate and can take time due to customs procedures, health controls and quality inspections. Transit and customs clearance times may vary depending on the port of entry and customs workload.

In general, the import process can take between 2 and 4 weeks from the time the coffee arrives at the port until it is ready for distribution.

Typical logistics steps:

1. Customs clearance and release of the goods.
2. Receipt and processing of the goods at the port.
3. Health inspection (if applicable).
4. Payment of customs duties and taxes.

Common mistakes when importing coffee (and how to avoid them)

When importing coffee, there are several common mistakes that entrepreneurs and companies often make. Below, we show you some of the most frequent ones and how to avoid them:

• Not having the correct phytosanitary certificate: Make sure green coffee has the appropriate phytosanitary certificate to avoid delays or rejections at customs.
• Using the wrong tariff code: Incorrect coffee classification can result in penalties or the need to pay higher duties.
• Not submitting the SAD or submitting it late: The SAD must be submitted within the stipulated deadline; otherwise, additional costs and delays may arise.
• Not planning port storage costs: If you do not take transit and clearance times into account, you could incur unexpected port storage costs.

Conclusion

Importing coffee into Spain is a process that requires attention to detail and a good understanding of customs, health and tax procedures. If you follow this guide and make sure you comply with all requirements, you will be able to import coffee efficiently and without surprises. If you have any questions or need personalised assistance, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you take your business to the next level.