Import-Export Companies in Lebanon: Shipping, Customs, and Letters of Credit

Lebanon's trade infrastructure suffered after 2020 — the Beirut port explosion destroyed major facilities, banking restrictions complicated payment, and political delays slow customs. Despite this, importers and exporters continue to move large volumes through alternative routes and creative financing.

Incoterms 101

EXW (Ex Works): buyer takes responsibility from seller's gate. Maximum control, maximum complexity.
FOB (Free On Board): seller delivers to port-of-departure, loaded; buyer takes ocean freight onward.
CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): seller arranges to destination port, but buyer takes risk at port-of-departure.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): seller handles everything including destination customs. Easiest for buyer, highest seller markup.

Shipping Modes

Sea (LCL/FCL): 25-50 days from China, 10-20 days from Europe; cheapest for volume.
Air: 3-7 days; 5-10x cost; for time-sensitive or high-value goods.
Road: from Turkey/Syria — limited by border conditions.
Courier (DHL/Aramex): samples, documents, small high-value parcels.

Customs Documentation

Commercial invoice with detailed description, HS codes, country of origin.
Packing list (cartons, weights, dimensions).
Bill of lading (sea) or AWB (air).
Certificate of origin — preferential rates for some origins.
Import license (specific HS codes — medical, pharma, telecom).

Customs Process

Arrival manifest → declaration submission → assessment → duty payment → release.
Customs broker fee: $100-500 per shipment.
Inspection (physical exam) for randomly selected or risk-flagged cargo.
Storage charges accrue from 5-10 days after arrival — clear quickly.

Payment in Current Environment

Bank-issued letters of credit harder than pre-2019; many suppliers refuse Lebanese banks.
Cash against documents (CAD), advance TT, Western Union remain common.
UAE/Cyprus offshore structures used for international payments.
Specialty fintech (Wise, payment gateways) used for smaller suppliers.