In specific cases it is possible to obtain an exemptions from import license, approval or permit. This does not apply, of course, to goods prohibited for import pursuant the Customs Tariff Order.

Granting an exemption pursuant article 2(c)2 of the Free Import Order

The Ministry of Economy and Industry’s Director General has determined the causes and terms for receiving an exemption. The exemption pertains to the obligation to present a license as specified in Schedule 1, and from meeting the requirements specified in Schedule 2 (labeling in Hebrew and standard-mark).

This service is regulated by Director General Directive 2.6. Applications can be submitted by an online form in the Ministry’s website, and will be sent to the relevant entity pursuant the Directive. 

Exemption from Hebrew Labeling

An exemption from the obligation to label in Hebrew pursuant the Consumer Protection Order (Labeling of Goods), 5743-1983 is considered an exemption from meeting the terms of the Free Import Order (the requirement is specified in the Order).

Clothing and Textile – the goods must be labeled in Hebrew before import pursuant the Consumer Protection Order (Labeling of Goods), 5743-1983. However, there is a procedure enabling labeling at the importer’s warehouse. To comply with this procedure (Edition B-72), please contact the Ministry of Economy.

Note: safety clothing must comply with the applicable standard.

Exemption applications may be submitted via an online form according to Director General Directive 2.6 – Granting an exemption pursuant article 2(c)2 of the Free Import Order (cause 5-12).

Customs Tariff Exemption – Edition B 381

An exemption from customs tariff is applicable to some goods intended for industrial use. Applications apply according to the product’s classification in the Customs Tariff Order, which stipulates that an approval of the Ministry of Economy’s Director General is required for receiving an exemption.

Quotas for import of processed food products with a tariff exemption or a reduced tariff

Israel has bilateral free trade area agreements with various countries, in which tariffs on trade in goods have been removed. Tariffs are still applicable to food and agriculture products. However, as part of an annual quota specified in the bilateral agreements with each country, some of the goods can be imported with a tariff exemption or a reduced tariff. Importing within a quota for tariff exemption or reduced tariff is contingent on obtaining a license.