Best International Trade Law Lawyers in Arta

About International Trade Law Law in Arta, Greece

International Trade Law in Arta sits at the intersection of Greek law and European Union law. Businesses in Arta trade frequently within the EU single market and with partners in the Western Balkans, the wider Mediterranean, and beyond. Because Greece is an EU Member State, customs, trade defense, export controls, product rules, and many tax rules are harmonized at EU level and applied locally through Greek authorities. In practical terms, Arta based exporters and importers deal with customs operations through nearby Epirus customs offices, comply with EU product standards and labeling, manage VAT correctly on cross border transactions, and draft contracts that allocate transport, risk, and payment clearly. Local sectors such as agri food, timber, textiles, and light manufacturing face specific regulatory requirements on health and safety, phytosanitary controls, and consumer information.

Whether you are a farmer exporting processed foods, a manufacturer importing components, or an e commerce seller shipping to consumers abroad, sound planning and compliance reduce costs and delays. A local lawyer who understands both EU frameworks and Greek practice can help you map the rules to your business model and resolve disputes efficiently.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Cross border trade creates legal risk at every stage. You may need a lawyer when negotiating international sales contracts, choosing Incoterms that fit your logistics, and drafting payment clauses that protect cash flow. A lawyer can review due diligence and sanctions screening on counterparties, navigate export licensing for dual use goods, and confirm that your product labeling meets Greek language and EU requirements.

You may also need help registering for an EORI number, choosing VAT regimes for intra EU supplies, preparing for a customs audit, or obtaining Authorized Economic Operator status. If customs seizes a shipment, if a customer refuses to pay, or if goods arrive damaged, counsel can coordinate claims, lodge administrative appeals, and pursue court or arbitration proceedings. In regulated sectors such as food, chemicals, medical devices, or cultural goods, legal guidance is often essential to secure certificates, avoid penalties, and keep goods moving.

Local Laws Overview

EU customs framework applies in Greece through the Union Customs Code and its implementing acts. Greek customs administration is handled by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue known as AADE through the ICISnet system. Traders need an EORI number issued in Greece to lodge customs declarations. For Arta based businesses, customs clearance typically occurs at Epirus offices such as Ioannina, Preveza, or Igoumenitsa, depending on the route and mode of transport.

VAT rules follow EU directives as transposed into Greek law. The standard Greek VAT rate is 24 percent. Many foodstuffs and specific services can be taxed at reduced rates of 13 percent or 6 percent where applicable. Intra EU supplies of goods to VAT registered customers are generally zero rated if the goods are dispatched to another Member State and you hold valid evidence, including the buyer’s EU VAT number with the EL prefix for Greek registrations. Distance sales to EU consumers may require One Stop Shop registration. Cross border reporting obligations include recapitulative statements and Intrastat declarations above thresholds.

Import and export compliance covers tariff classification, customs valuation, and rules of origin. EU free trade agreements can reduce or eliminate import duties if origin rules are met, often using the Registered Exporter System for origin statements. Trade defense measures such as anti dumping duties are set by the European Commission and enforced by Greek customs. Export controls on dual use goods are governed by EU Regulation 2021-821 and Greek implementing measures, with licensing handled through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. EU sanctions and restrictive measures are directly applicable and must be observed by Greek traders and banks.

Product compliance matters are central to market access. Many products require CE marking and conformity documentation. Consumer products must meet EU safety rules and the General Product Safety Regulation. Labeling for consumer goods sold in Greece must include information in the Greek language. Food exports require compliance with EU hygiene and labeling rules and may need veterinary or phytosanitary certificates. The Hellenic Food Authority known as EFET supervises food safety domestically. Environmental obligations include extended producer responsibility for packaging, electrical equipment, and batteries through approved collective schemes.

Commercial contracting follows Greek civil and commercial law where chosen or applicable, while many parties opt for arbitration or choose foreign governing law. Standard trade terms are often based on Incoterms published by the International Chamber of Commerce. Transport is commonly documented by CMR consignment notes for road, bills of lading for sea, and air waybills for air. Claims handling and insurance practice often refer to Institute Cargo Clauses and the Athens based marine and insurance markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What authorities handle customs and trade in Greece if I am based in Arta

AADE handles customs administration and VAT. Customs declarations are filed via ICISnet, and EORI numbers are issued by AADE. Depending on your route, you may work with customs houses in Ioannina, Preveza, or Igoumenitsa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs oversees export control licensing. Enterprise Greece supports export promotion and market entry.

Do I need an EORI number to import or export

Yes. Any business established in Greece that lodges customs declarations needs a Greek EORI number. Your lawyer or customs broker can help apply through AADE and link it to your tax number so that your declarations can be submitted without delay.

How is VAT handled on cross border sales from Arta

Sales to VAT registered customers in other EU countries can be zero rated if the goods leave Greece and the buyer’s VAT number is valid. You must keep transport evidence and file recapitulative statements. Sales to EU consumers may trigger One Stop Shop registration once thresholds are met. Exports to non EU countries are usually zero rated but require customs export evidence. Imports into Greece are subject to import VAT, and deferral or special arrangements may be available.

Which Incoterms should I use

The right Incoterm depends on your logistics, insurance, and control over the shipment. Many Greek exporters use FCA for containerized goods or EXW where the buyer handles pickup, while CIF or CIP can be chosen when the seller arranges transport and insurance. A lawyer can tailor the clause to your contract so that risk, delivery, and costs are clearly allocated.

What are common customs pitfalls for Arta exporters

Frequent issues include wrong tariff classification, missing origin documentation to claim preferential duty, inadequate transport proof for zero rated VAT, and incomplete product labeling in Greek. Early document checks, correct Incoterm usage, and coordination with your customs broker reduce these risks.

Do I need export licenses for my goods

Licenses are required for certain dual use items, military goods, cultural goods, and some sensitive products. Dual use controls follow EU law, and licenses are issued by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Food and plant products may need health or phytosanitary certificates rather than export licenses. Screening your product list against control schedules is essential.

How do sanctions affect my transactions

EU sanctions apply directly in Greece. You must avoid dealings with listed persons, entities, and embargoed goods or regions. Greek banks also enforce stringent screening and may block payments that pose sanctions risk. Conduct counterparty due diligence, include sanctions clauses in contracts, and consult counsel before high risk transactions.

What labeling rules apply for products sold in Greece

Consumer facing products must include mandatory information in the Greek language. Sector specific rules may require safety warnings, ingredients, allergens, CE marking, energy labels, or recycling information. Food and beverages must follow EU food information rules. Failure to comply can lead to fines or customs holds.

Can I resolve an international trade dispute in Greece

Yes. You can bring claims before Greek courts with jurisdiction, such as the Court of First Instance in Arta for local disputes, or you can use arbitration or mediation. Many contracts specify arbitration in Athens or abroad. Choice of law and jurisdiction clauses should be negotiated at the outset to avoid uncertainty.

What support exists for small exporters in Arta

The Arta Chamber of Commerce and Industry provides local guidance. Enterprise Greece offers export readiness services and market intelligence. Export Credit Greece provides insurance and guarantees to manage payment risk. Your bank’s trade finance team can arrange letters of credit, guarantees, and supply chain finance. A lawyer can align these tools with your contractual terms.

Additional Resources

Independent Authority for Public Revenue known as AADE - Customs and VAT administration and EORI issuance.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Export controls and sanctions policy for Greece.

Enterprise Greece - National agency for investment and trade promotion and exporter support.

Export Credit Greece S.A. - State export credit agency for insurance and guarantees.

Arta Chamber of Commerce and Industry - Local business registry support and trade services.

Hellenic Food Authority known as EFET - Food safety, hygiene, and inspections.

Hellenic Competition Commission - Competition and antitrust guidance for distribution agreements.

Hellenic Data Protection Authority - GDPR compliance for cross border customer data.

EU Access2Markets portal - Tariffs, rules of origin, and product requirements for target countries.

European Commission Taxation and Customs Union - Union Customs Code and customs guidance.

Next Steps

Define your trade model clearly. Identify products, target markets, transport modes, and the role you will play in the supply chain. This will shape customs, tax, and licensing requirements.

Collect key documents. Prepare product specifications, safety and conformity files, draft labels in Greek where needed, supplier declarations of origin, and logistics plans. Confirm HS codes and valuation methods for your goods.

Set up registrations and partners. Obtain your EORI number, confirm VAT status, and engage a reliable customs broker and freight forwarder familiar with Epirus routes such as Igoumenitsa. Consider trade finance arrangements with your bank.

Draft robust contracts. Work with a lawyer to choose governing law and dispute forum, select appropriate Incoterms, allocate risk and insurance, set payment security such as letters of credit or guarantees, and include sanctions and compliance clauses.

Check compliance before shipping. Verify licensing needs, labeling and certification, and any export or import restrictions. Ensure your transport documents match your Incoterms and that your VAT and origin evidence will support your tax position.

Plan for ongoing governance. Implement screening of counterparties, maintain records for audits, schedule training for staff, and review contracts and procedures at least annually. If an issue arises, contact a qualified International Trade Law lawyer in Arta promptly to preserve rights and meet procedural deadlines.