What is the average US tariff rate for Saudi Arabia? - USAFacts

A recent analysis by USAFacts, drawing on data from the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC), highlights that the average U.S. tariff rate on goods imported from Saudi Arabia stood at 0.9% in 2022. This figure is notably lower than the overall average U.S. tariff rate of 1.4% applied to goods from all countries during the same year. Tariffs, which are essentially taxes levied on imported goods or services, play a crucial role in international trade, influencing costs for importers and consumers alike.

This information is particularly relevant for importers, customs brokers, and trade compliance officers who manage the flow of goods from Saudi Arabia into the United States. Understanding these average rates helps in forecasting costs and ensuring compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. Importers are typically responsible for paying these tariffs, which can then be factored into the final price of goods for consumers. The primary goods affected by these rates are those constituting the bulk of U.S. imports from Saudi Arabia, predominantly mineral fuels and related products.

Key Tariff Rates and Import Data

The average U.S. tariff rate for Saudi Arabia has seen slight fluctuations over recent years:

• In 2018, the rate was 0.6%.
• It increased to 0.7% in 2019.
• In both 2020 and 2021, the rate was 0.8%.
• By 2022, it reached 0.9%.

For comparison, the overall average U.S. tariff rate for all countries was 1.5% in 2018, peaked at 1.7% in 2019, and then settled at 1.5% in 2020, and 1.4% in both 2021 and 2022.

In 2022, the total value of goods imported from Saudi Arabia into the U.S. was approximately $39.3 billion, making Saudi Arabia the 19th largest source of U.S. imports. The top three categories of goods imported from Saudi Arabia by value in 2022 were:

• Mineral fuels, oils, and distillation products (e.g., crude oil, petroleum products), accounting for $36.2 billion.
• Organic chemicals, valued at $1.1 billion.
• Plastics, also valued at $1.1 billion.

These three categories collectively represented 97.8% of the total value of goods imported from Saudi Arabia in 2022, according to USITC data.

Given these insights, importers and trade compliance professionals should consistently monitor tariff rates and trade policies impacting goods from Saudi Arabia. It is crucial to ensure accurate classification of imported products under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) to apply the correct duties. Regular review of import documentation and engagement with experienced customs brokers or trade compliance experts can help mitigate risks, ensure adherence to regulations, and optimize import costs in a dynamic global trade environment.