Importing raw incense in commercial quantities for an Arab perfume shop in Berlin

Commercial import of raw incense for an Arab perfume shop in Berlin: requirements and procedures

Raw incense is a key ingredient in the production of oriental and traditional fragrances and is very popular among Arab perfume shops in Berlin. When importing commercial quantities of raw incense, importers must comply with German and EU regulations that are designed to ensure product quality, consumer safety, and full customs and environmental compliance.

This article outlines the main requirements and steps when importing raw incense for an Arab perfumery in Berlin.

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1. Legal classification of raw incense

• Raw incense is typically classified as a natural aromatic product and falls within the category of plant-based raw materials.

• It is subject to EU consumer product safety standards, and in some cases also to food-related or indoor-use standards, especially when it is intended for products that are sold to end consumers and used in enclosed spaces.

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2. Health and environmental requirements

• Raw incense must be free from harmful substances, such as pesticide residues, environmental pollutants or heavy metals.

• It is advisable (and often required) to carry out laboratory analyses in accredited laboratories to verify the absence of banned or health-damaging chemicals.

• In many cases, the authorities will expect a Health Certificate issued by a competent authority in the country of origin, certifying that the incense is safe and hygienically produced, dried and stored.

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3. Customs procedures for importing incense

When importing commercial quantities of raw incense into Germany, the following documents and steps are particularly important:

• Commercial Invoice
  Including:

  • precise description of the raw incense (type, grade, form),

  • quantity (net weight and number of sacks/cartons),

  • total value,

  • country of origin.

• Certificate of Origin
  Officially confirming the origin of the product, usually issued by chambers of commerce or competent authorities in the exporting country.

• Customs Declaration (Import Declaration)
  Submitted when the shipment enters Germany/EU. This is often handled electronically via a freight forwarder or customs agent.

• Duties and Taxes

  • Customs duties according to the relevant tariff classification,

  • plus import VAT at 19 % calculated on the customs value (goods + transport + insurance + customs duty).

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4. Possible restrictions and official controls

• If the raw incense contains prohibited ingredients or substances with a significant health risk, the competent authorities may:

  • refuse entry of the shipment,

  • or impose additional requirements such as re-export or destruction.

• Certain types of incense or incense blends that have insect-repellent or biocidal properties may fall under EU chemicals and biocidal regulations, which are stricter and require additional authorisations.

• Authorities responsible for food and consumer product control (e.g. Lebensmittelüberwachung) may take samples from the market to monitor quality and safety.

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5. Practical tips for importers and perfume shops

• Work with reliable suppliers who can provide:

  • valid health certificates,

  • official certificates of origin,

  • clear documentation on drying, storage and handling.

• Consider pre-shipment laboratory testing, especially when dealing with new suppliers or new incense types, to ensure quality and compliance.

• Use experienced freight forwarders and customs brokers familiar with the import of plant raw materials and fragrance ingredients.

• Keep a well-organised documentation file (invoices, certificates, laboratory reports) to speed up customs clearance and demonstrate due diligence to regulators.

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Summary

By following these requirements and procedures, an Arab perfume shop in Berlin can import raw incense legally and safely, maintaining product quality and customer trust.

The writing and editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on extensive research and consultation of several sources. Nevertheless, errors or uncertainties may occur. The information in this article should therefore be regarded as an initial, non-binding reference. For definitive and legally binding information, always consult the competent authorities.