HS 7403.11Metals · South Korea

HS Code for Copper Cathodes LME Grade A - Import into South Korea

Duty and tax snapshot for importing metals (HS 7403.11) into South Korea. Typical MFN duty ~3%, VAT 10% on CIF + duty. Decision-support only - confirm the 10-digit line and preferential status with your broker.

Typical duty

VAT

10%

Total taxes / CIF

13.3%

Worked landed-cost example

USD 150,000 FOB parcel of metals (HS 7403.11) shipped to South Korea.

FOB valueUSD 150,000

Origin chargesUSD 2,250

FreightUSD 12,000

InsuranceUSD 750

CIFUSD 165,000

Import duty @ 3%USD 4,950

VAT @ 10%USD 16,995

Destination inlandUSD 3,000

Landed cost ≈ USD 189,945

Run your own numbers in the Landed Cost by HS & Country tool.

Sample HS codes

Code	Description
7403.11	Refined copper, cathodes and sections of cathodes
7403.13	Refined copper, billets
7403.19	Refined copper, other unwrought

South Korea duty regime

MFN and preferential tariffs under KORUS FTA (USA), Korea-EU FTA, RCEP, Korea-UK FTA, Korea-ASEAN, Korea-India CEPA and Korea-China FTA.

Customs notes

· HSK: 10-digit Korean tariff code (HS 6 + 4 national digits) managed by Korea Customs Service (KCS).
· UNI-PASS is the electronic clearance system.
· Individual Consumption Tax applies to select goods (autos, jewellery, tobacco, alcohol) before VAT.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical import duty on metals (HS 7403.11) into South Korea?

South Korea applies an MFN duty of about 3% on HS chapter 7403.11 at the 6-digit line. National tariff schedules add 2–4 further digits, so the exact rate can shift once you confirm the 8- or 10-digit code. Preferential rates under FTAs (MFN and preferential tariffs under KORUS FTA (USA), Korea-EU FTA, RCEP, Korea-UK FTA, Korea-ASEAN, Korea-India CEPA and Korea-China FTA) may reduce this to 0% for qualifying origins.

How is VAT calculated on imports of metals in South Korea?

South Korea charges VAT at 10% on the CIF value plus duty. 10% VAT on CIF + duty + ICT

What is the landed cost of a USD 150,000 FOB shipment of metals into South Korea?

On a USD 150,000 FOB parcel with ~8% freight and 0.5% insurance, CIF works out to USD 165,000. Applying 3% duty and 10% VAT brings total taxes to about USD 21,945 (~13.3% of CIF). Landed at buyer's warehouse ≈ USD 189,945.

Which HS code should I use for metals in South Korea?

Start with the 6-digit international HS heading - for example 7403.11 (Refined copper, cathodes and sections of cathodes). South Korea customs then requires the full national code (8- to 10-digit national tariff line). Confirm the exact line with your licensed customs broker before filing.

Which Incoterm is best for shipping metals to South Korea?

Most importers into South Korea prefer CIF or CFR for sea freight so the seller arranges main-carriage transport, while retaining control of destination clearance. DDP shifts import duty and VAT to the seller - attractive to buyers but often priced with a risk premium. Compare all 11 Incoterms with our Landed Cost by HS & Country tool.

What documents does South Korea customs need to clear HS 7403.11?

HSK: 10-digit Korean tariff code (HS 6 + 4 national digits) managed by Korea Customs Service (KCS). Regulated commodities may also require a health certificate, phytosanitary certificate or import licence depending on the exact HS line.