guide7 min read2026-02-16
Philippines Customs for Korean Products: What You Need to Know
Everything about Philippine customs, duties, and taxes when importing Korean products. De minimis threshold, VAT rates, restricted items, and clearance tips.
customsdutiesphilippinesimporttaxes
Understanding Philippine Customs for Korean Imports
Ordering from Korea is easy, but what happens when your package arrives at Philippine customs? This guide covers everything you need to know to ensure smooth delivery.
De Minimis Threshold
The Philippine de minimis threshold is ₱10,000 (approximately $180 USD). This means:
- Under ₱10,000: No customs duty or VAT
- Over ₱10,000: Subject to duty + 12% VAT
Most personal orders from Korea (cosmetics, albums, snacks, stationery) fall under this threshold.
Duty Rates by Product Type
| Product | Duty Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetics/Skincare | 0-10% | Generally low duty |
| K-pop Albums/Books | 0% | Usually duty-free |
| Food/Snacks | 5-15% | Varies by type |
| Stationery | 0-5% | Low duty |
| Electronics | 0-10% | May require NTC permit |
| Fashion/Accessories | 10-15% | Varies |
VAT (Value Added Tax)
- Rate: 12%
- Applied to: Product value + shipping + duty (if applicable)
- Threshold: Only on shipments valued over ₱10,000
How Customs Clearance Works
For EMS Shipments (Standard)
- Package arrives at NAIA or Clark airport
- Bureau of Customs scans and assesses
- If under ₱10,000 → auto-released
- If over ₱10,000 → you may receive a notice
- PhilPost or courier delivers to you
If You Get a Customs Notice
- You'll receive a text/letter from PhilPost
- Visit the nearest post office with:
- Tracking number
- Invoice/receipt (we provide this)
- Pay any assessed duties/taxes
- Collect your package
Restricted Items (Cannot Ship)
- Lithium batteries (standalone)
- Flammable liquids/aerosols
- Perishable food requiring refrigeration
- Prescription medication
- Weapons and weapon parts
Tips for Smooth Customs Clearance
- Keep orders under ₱10,000 — avoid duties entirely
- Split large orders — if buying many items, separate into multiple shipments
- Keep your receipt — KboxShop provides an invoice with every order
- Accurate declaration — we declare the actual product value (no under-declaration)
- Include your phone number — so customs can contact you if needed
KboxShop Customs Support
If your package gets held at customs, contact us:
- We provide official Korean store receipts
- We help you prepare customs documents
- We guide you through the clearance process