Buying foodstuffs online
Foodstuffs ordered online are subject to VAT and, in some cases, customs duty. Some foodstuffs are restricted, meaning that you may not receive them from countries outside the EU.
Ordering foodstuffs from an EU Member State
When ordering foodstuffs from EU Member States, you are not required to pay customs duty, VAT in Sweden or any other taxes.
You may import any foodstuffs for personal usage, provided that they originate from an EU Member State. This does not apply to foodstuffs containing narcotics or pharmaceutical products (according to Swedish legislation on pharmaceutical products).
Ordering foodstuffs from countries outside the EU
When ordering foodstuffs from a country outside the EU you are always required to pay VAT. The rate of VAT on foodstuffs is 12% and is calculated based on the value of the goods and its shipping fee. When ordering goods for SEK 1,800 or more, you are required to pay both customs duty and VAT. The amount of customs duty owed depends on the type of foodstuffs.
Some foodstuffs are restricted, which means that an approved phytosanitary certificate is required, in some cases in conjunction with a veterinary inspection performed at the time of importation by the Swedish Board of Agriculture. Please contact the Swedish Board of Agriculture if you have questions about what goods are restricted and how to import such goods to Sweden.
Some foodstuffs cannot be brought to Sweden
Foodstuffs and feed of animal origin may spread disease
The strict provisions governing foodstuffs and feed of animal origin, such as meat or milk, are a consequence of the risk of spreading diseases associated with such goods. These goods may not be taken into the EU; however, there are some exceptions. Visit the website of the Swedish Board of Agriculture to find out more about the foodstuffs that are prohibited and those that are permitted.
Phytosanitary certificates are required for some plants and plant-based products
Some plants and plant-based products, such as fresh fruits, vegetables and cut flowers, may not be taken back to Sweden, if they originate from countries outside the EU. This is due to the significant risk of spreading plant pests. For these goods, you will need a phytosanitary certificate. Visit the website of the Swedish Board of Agriculture to find out more about provisions governing plants and plant-based products from other countries.
Phytosanitary certificate and other measures against plant pests – Swedish Board of Agriculture