Import from Australia to the UK
The UK is Australia’s 11th largest trading partner (statistics from the Australian Government).
The two nations have been long-standing trade partners since the 18th century but formalised the relationship with a dedicated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in December 2021.
The two nations have been long-standing trade partners since the 18th century but formalised the relationship with a dedicated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in December 2021.
Why import from Australia to the UK?
Trade agreements
The UK and Australia’s FTA was agreed in 2021 and put into action in 2023. It eliminates tariffs on over 99% of Australian goods entering the UK and 98% of UK goods exported to Australia.
Products, including wine, honey, nuts, olive oil, seafood, various fruits and vegetables can be imported from Australia without any additional duties.
High-quality goods
Australian imports are subject to strict quality control measures before they reach international markets (thanks to the safety guarantees outlined in the Australian Consumer Law).
Simpler processes
The A-UKFTA has introduced simplified customs procedures. To facilitate quicker Australia to UK shipping, importers can now submit electronic customs documentation in advance.
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What products are commonly imported from Australia?
The total trade in goods and services between the UK and Australia increased by 11% in 2025, amounting to £22.4 billion. Imports alone accounted for £6.5 billion of this figure.
Imports from Australia are varied, and as the UK’s 20th-largest trading partner, consumers have shown the most interest in:
Any import to the UK must first be reported to the Australian Border Force (ABF) using an Export Declaration. The goods must then pass through UK customs.
Imports from Australia are varied, and as the UK’s 20th-largest trading partner, consumers have shown the most interest in:
- Unspecified goods (£518.1 million)
- Non-ferrous metals (£441.7 million)
- Other manufacturers (consumer) (£257.9 million)
- Beverages & Tobacco (£231.6 million)
- Meat & meat preparations (£117.6 million)
Any import to the UK must first be reported to the Australian Border Force (ABF) using an Export Declaration. The goods must then pass through UK customs.
How to prepare for customs
Timely shipping from Australia hinges on a smooth customs process. Importers can get a head start by making sure they have the correct documentation and any necessary certificates.
Pay duty & VAT
When importing from Australia, customs duties and Value-Added Tax (VAT) may apply.
The total amount owed depends on the commodity code assigned to the product and its declared value. These charges must be settled before the goods can be released from customs.
The total amount owed depends on the commodity code assigned to the product and its declared value. These charges must be settled before the goods can be released from customs.
EORI number
An Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is a unique identifier used to track shipments through the customs system. All importers must obtain one before bringing in goods.
Inspection (if required)
If you plan to import certain goods from Australia, you may need to apply for an import licence:
These items are subject to customs inspections, and importers must provide the necessary certificates.
- Hazardous chemicals
- Nuclear materials
- Veterinary medicines
- Controlled goods
- Human medicines
These items are subject to customs inspections, and importers must provide the necessary certificates.
Marking and labelling
The UK has strict marking and labelling requirements for goods, including precious metals, footwear, food and drink and products for children.
For example, to import footwear from Australia, The label must state, in English or a clear pictogram, what material makes up 80% of:
For example, to import footwear from Australia, The label must state, in English or a clear pictogram, what material makes up 80% of:
- the surface area of the upper
- the surface area of the lining and sock
- the outer sole
Commodity codes
Australia to UK shipping requires a commodity code, a ten-digit number that determines the payable customs duties and VAT on goods.
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Import duty from Australia to the UK
To ship goods from Australia to the UK, you must pay import duty. The amount payable will depend on the type and value of goods:
| Type and value of goods | Import duty rates |
|---|---|
Any goods under £135 | No charge |
Gifts worth £135-£630 | 2.5% (lower for some goods) |
Gifts above £630 and any other goods above £135 | Check the HS code of goods to get the exact rate. |
How do I ship goods from Australia to the UK?
To import from Australia, you must select the shipping method that best suits the quantity and cost of your goods.
Sea freight
Used mostly for bulk shipments, sea freight from Australia usually takes around 5 wells or around 40–45 days (the duration can vary depending on the port of origin and destination in the UK).
Air freight
Air freight from Australia to the UK is much faster and, as such, more expensive. These shipments can take between 3 and 8 days and are ideal for time-sensitive shipments.
Does the UK have a free trade agreement with Australia?
Yes, the United Kingdom and Australia have a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) known as the Australia–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UKFTA).
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