Shipping

Import

No import permit was found for swords from outside the EU. Austrian customs lists only some weapons as banned for import (for example knuckle dusters and pump guns), not swords. The parcel goes through normal customs clearance.

Carrying in public

The WaffG has no general ban on carrying a sword for adults. It is banned in police weapon free zones (Waffenverbotszonen, § 36b Sicherheitspolizeigesetz), at public assemblies, and for people under a weapons ban or covered by § 11a. Transport it covered, in its saya and a bag, and avoid carrying it openly.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 20 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Waffengesetz 1996, RIS (official consolidated text)ris.bka.gv.at
• § 11 WaffG, possession under 18jusline.at
• § 11a WaffG, ban for some third country nationalsjusline.at
• § 17 WaffG, prohibited weaponsjusline.at
• § 36b SPG, weapon free zonesgesetzefinden.at
• BMF Zoll: Mitnahme von Waffenbmf.gv.at
• EU TARIC, code 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7%, as mirrored by zolltarifnummern.de)zolltarifnummern.de
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu

Import

No import permit requirement for freely available bladed weapons was found. Normal customs clearance applies.

Carrying in public

Carrying a freely available weapon is only allowed for a person who can show a legitimate reason (art. 9). The reason is not defined in law and is judged by police and courts.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 21 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Belgian Official Journal (Justel): Weapons Act of 8 June 2006ejustice.just.fgov.be
• Etaamb: published text of the Weapons Act of 8 June 2006etaamb.openjustice.be
• Tariff data for CN 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7 percent, secondary source mirroring TARIC)zolltarifnummern.de
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu

Import

No import permit or ban for swords was found. Normal customs clearance applies.

Carrying in public

No general ban on carrying a sword was found. Weapons are banned at public assemblies and some events, and carrying a weapon makes some crimes more serious. Transport it covered and do not carry it openly.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 21 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Zákon č. 90/2024 Sb., o zbraních a střelivu (Zákony pro lidi)zakonyprolidi.cz
• Ministry of the Interior: main changes from 1 January 2026mv.gov.cz
• EU TARIC, code 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7%, as mirrored by zolltarifnummern.de)zolltarifnummern.de
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu

Import

§ 14 of BEK 179/2018 requires a separate police import permit (indførselstilladelse) for each import. It is valid for up to 3 months and, for goods from outside the EU, must be stamped by Danish customs. The buyer must hold or have applied for the sword permit. Police state that processing often takes at least 20 working days. Without both permits, customs will hold the parcel. § 13 also bans advertising the sale of these weapons in Denmark.

Carrying in public

§ 1 of the Act bans carrying knives and bladed weapons in public places unless for work, hunting, sport or a similar recognised purpose. The permit itself must also cover carrying. Transport must be secure, for example covered in a locked vehicle (§ 8 BEK 179/2018).

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 25 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• LBK nr. 939 of 20/07/2024, lov om knive og blankvåben m.v.retsinformation.dk
• BEK nr. 179 of 22/02/2018, bekendtgørelse om knive og blankvåben m.v.retsinformation.dk
• Politi.dk: Indførsel af almindelige våben (swords listed)politi.dk
• Politi.dk: Samlertilladelse til blankvåbenpoliti.dk
• EU TARIC, code 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7%, as mirrored by zolltarifnummern.de)zolltarifnummern.de
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu

Import

No import permit or ban for swords was found. Normal customs clearance applies.

Carrying in public

§ 10 of the Public Order Act bans having bladed weapons and other objects suitable for cutting or stabbing in a public place or a public vehicle, unless needed for work or another acceptable reason. Transport it packed away.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 25.5 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Järjestyslaki 612/2003, Finlexfinlex.fi
• EU TARIC, code 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7%, as mirrored by zolltarifnummern.de)zolltarifnummern.de
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu

Import

French customs state that category D items of types a), b) and c) arriving from a country outside the EU need an import authorisation (AIMG) under the Defence Code, article L2335-1. The general exemptions of 8 July 2015 do not cover swords. A private buyer can apply by showing that they may lawfully hold the item in France. Without an AIMG, customs can hold or seize the parcel.

Carrying in public

Carrying or transporting a category D weapon outside the home without a legitimate reason is an offence (CSI art. L315-1, R315-1): up to 1 year in prison and a 15,000 EUR fine. The reason is judged case by case. Self defence is not a valid reason. Transport it unloaded from view, wrapped or in a closed case, for a clear purpose such as moving house or a class.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 20 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• French government public service site: category D weaponsservice-public.gouv.fr
• French official legal database: Internal Security Code, article R311-2legifrance.gouv.fr
• French customs: importing weapons from a non EU country (AIMG)douane.gouv.fr
• French customs: private persons importing weapons from a non EU countrydouane.gouv.fr
• French official legal database: order of 8 July 2015 on import exemptionslegifrance.gouv.fr
• Haute-Loire state office: new rules on bladed weapons (2025)haute-loire.gouv.fr
• Law firm article on buying, keeping and transporting a katana in France (secondary source)kohenavocats.com
• Tariff data for CN 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7 percent, secondary source mirroring TARIC)zolltarifnummern.de
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu

Import

No weapons permit is needed to bring a sword into Germany, because the permit rules for import apply to firearms and other items listed in Anlage 2. A seller may only hand weapons to entitled persons, and the entitlement must be obvious or proven (WaffG section 34(1)), so mail order needs an age check, typically a courier service that checks ID and delivers only to the named adult.

Carrying in public

Carrying (Fuehren) a Hieb- und Stosswaffe in public is banned (WaffG section 42a). Exceptions: transport in a locked container, or carrying with a legitimate interest such as sport or tradition. Weapons are also banned at public events (section 42) and in local weapon free zones set by the states.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 19 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• WaffG section 2 (age 18)gesetze-im-internet.de
• WaffG section 34 (handing over only to entitled persons)gesetze-im-internet.de
• WaffG section 42 (public events, weapon free zones)gesetze-im-internet.de
• WaffG section 42a (ban on carrying Hieb- und Stosswaffen)gesetze-im-internet.de
• WaffG Anlage 1 (definitions)gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zoll: bringing in and carrying weaponszoll.de
• Tariff data for CN 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7 percent, secondary source mirroring TARIC)zolltarifnummern.de
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu

Import

Article 2(1) bans importing the weapons listed in Article 1. Swords may be imported only with a licence from the Ministry of Citizen Protection (Article 2(2)). Illegal import is a criminal offence. A private buyer will normally not hold this licence, so customs would seize the parcel.

Carrying in public

Carrying swords and other Article 1 weapons in public without a licence is a criminal offence.

Sources

• Law 4678/2020 (ΦΕΚ A 70/20.03.2020) amending Law 2168/1993, ELINYAEelinyae.gr
• Law 2168/1993 (ΦΕΚ A 147/1993), ELINYAEelinyae.gr
• Law 2168/1993 consolidated text (PoliceNET, up to Law 3944/2011)iperifanosguns.gr

Import

Section 12(6) states that the importation of a listed weapon is prohibited. Customs or the Gardai can seize the parcel, and both seller and buyer risk prosecution.

Carrying in public

Section 9 of the 1990 Act makes it an offence to have any article with a blade or a sharp point in a public place, unless the person proves good reason or lawful authority.

Sources

• S.I. No. 338/2009, Offensive Weapons (Amendment) Order 2009irishstatutebook.ie
• S.I. No. 66/1991, Offensive Weapons Order 1991irishstatutebook.ie
• Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act 1990, section 12 (revised)revisedacts.lawreform.ie
• Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act 1990, section 9 (revised)revisedacts.lawreform.ie

Import

Mail order and online sale of weapons to private persons is banned unless the buyer holds a special nulla osta from the Prefetto of their province (L. 110/1975 art. 17), and the seller must notify the police of each shipment. Bringing into Italy weapons that may not be carried is banned except for study or holders of a collection licence (TULPS regulation art. 49). Courts have treated unlawful import as a crime (Codice penale art. 695).

Carrying in public

Carrying a proper bladed weapon outside the home is banned in all cases (L. 110/1975 art. 4, Codice penale art. 699). Private persons must give the police prior notice before transporting it.

Sources

• Polizia di Stato, Poliziamoderna insert on weapons law (July 2014): katana, import, mail orderpoliziadistato.it
• Normattiva: Legge 18 aprile 1975 n. 110normattiva.it
• TULPS art. 38 (declaration of possession)brocardi.it
• Tariff data for CN 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7 percent, secondary source mirroring TARIC)zolltarifnummern.de
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu

Import

Import also needs the authorisation, except for members of an approved martial arts federation club, who may import for private use. A private buyer without either will likely see the parcel seized.

Carrying in public

Carrying needs a permit. Federation members may transport their weapon in public only by the most direct route to training, competition, a gunsmith or the person taking it.

Sources

• Grand Ducal Police: bladed weaponspolice.public.lu
• Luxembourg official journal: Weapons and Ammunition Act of 2 February 2022legilux.public.lu
• Tariff data for CN 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7 percent, secondary source mirroring TARIC)zolltarifnummern.de
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu

Import

The import consent requirement (art. 14) only covers categories II and III, so no import permit is needed for a category IV sword. The ban on transfer to minors still applies, so the seller needs an age check.

Carrying in public

Carrying (dragen) a category IV weapon in public is banned (art. 27(1)), with narrow exemptions for ceremonies, parades and recreational activities set by ministerial rule. Transport it packed and not ready for use.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 21 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• wetten.overheid.nl: Wet wapens en munitie (in force from 1 July 2026)wetten.overheid.nl
• Tariff data for CN 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7 percent, secondary source mirroring TARIC)zolltarifnummern.de
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu

Import

No import permit or ban for swords was found. Normal customs clearance applies.

Carrying in public

There is no general ban on carrying. Art. 50a of the Code of Petty Offences (Kodeks wykroczeń) punishes having a knife, machete or similar dangerous object in a public place when circumstances suggest it may be used for a crime. Weapons are banned at mass events and assemblies, and regional authorities can impose temporary carry bans. Transport it covered.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 23 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Ustawa o broni i amunicji (Dz.U. 1999 nr 53 poz. 549), ISAPisap.sejm.gov.pl
• Ustawa o broni i amunicji, ELI texteli.gov.pl
• Kodeks wykroczeń art. 50alexlege.pl
• EU TARIC, code 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7%, as mirrored by zolltarifnummern.de)zolltarifnummern.de
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu

Import

Import of weapons subject to conditional acquisition needs prior authorisation from the National Director of the PSP before the goods arrive, and is only granted to holders of the matching licence (art. 61). Without it, customs can seize the parcel.

Carrying in public

Carrying is only allowed for licence holders and within the licence. A bladed weapon found outside its normal place of use without a justification is treated as a class A prohibited weapon (art. 3(2)(ab)).

Sources

• PGDL: Lei n. 5/2006, regime juridico das armas e municoes (consolidated)pgdlisboa.pt
• Diario da Republica: Lei n. 50/2019 (latest amendment found)diariodarepublica.pt
• Diario da Republica: Lei n. 5/2006, original textfiles.dre.pt
• Tariff data for CN 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7 percent, secondary source mirroring TARIC)zolltarifnummern.de
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu

Import

Import and sale of category 5 weapons are supervised by the Guardia Civil (art. 106): importers and sellers must report the types and features of the weapons they import, and the Guardia Civil may inspect. No specific import permit for a private buyer was found, but customs may hold the parcel for a Guardia Civil (Intervencion de Armas) check. The buyer should be ready to show ID and proof of age.

Carrying in public

Carrying, showing or using bladed weapons and category 5 weapons outside the home, workplace or sport activity is banned (art. 146). Carrying weapons at public places, gatherings and demonstrations is treated as unlawful. Transport in a closed case and for a clear reason.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 21 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• BOE: Real Decreto 137/1993, Reglamento de Armas (consolidated, last amended 4 April 2025)boe.es
• BOE: consolidated PDF of the Reglamento de Armasboe.es
• Tariff data for CN 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7 percent, secondary source mirroring TARIC)zolltarifnummern.de
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu

Import

No import permit for swords was found. The import restrictions that customs enforces target items such as switchblades, knuckle dusters and other street fighting weapons. Normal customs clearance applies.

Carrying in public

§ 1 of the Knife Act bans having a knife or other stabbing or cutting weapon in a public place, a school area, or a vehicle in a public place, unless there is a justified reason. Transport it packed away, straight from point to point.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

EU import from China: swords fall under CN 9307 00 00, EU third country duty 1.7 percent for all origins, with no preference and no anti dumping or other measure specific to China on this line. Import VAT at the destination rate of 25 percent is charged on the price plus shipping plus duty. IOSS covers only parcels up to 150 EUR, so a katana above that value is cleared normally and the import VAT, the 1.7 percent duty and a carrier fee are collected from the buyer on delivery. Since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 EUR duty per tariff line to distance sales up to 150 EUR, and from 1 November 2026 a 2 EUR Union handling fee on e-commerce parcels; a katana above 150 EUR pays the normal 1.7 percent instead of the 3 EUR duty.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Lag (1988:254) om förbud beträffande knivar och andra farliga föremål (Riksdagen)riksdagen.se
• Polisen: Införsel och utförsel av vapenpolisen.se
• EU TARIC, code 9307 00 00 (third country duty 1.7%, as mirrored by zolltarifnummern.de)zolltarifnummern.de
• European Commission: 3 EUR customs duty on low value parcels (2026)commission.europa.eu
• EU TARIC as mirrored by the UK Trade Tariff XI service: commodity 9307000000 (1.7 percent, all origins, 3 EUR low value duty from 1 July 2026)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• European Commission DG TAXUD: EU Customs Reform (2 EUR handling fee from 1 November 2026)taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu

Import

Banned items under § 3-6 may not be imported. Because a katana is not expressly banned, private import appears possible, but Norwegian Customs (Tolletaten) can hold back, seize or destroy goods that lack the required permits. The buyer should be ready to explain the legitimate purpose. The Norwegian customs tariff flags line 93.07.0000 with a weapons (Våpen) import restriction for all origins; whether it requires a permit for a sword was not confirmed.

Carrying in public

Carrying a knife or similar sharp tool able to cause injury in a public place is a crime (Penal Code, straffeloven § 189), punishable by a fine or up to 1 year in prison. The exception covers carrying in connection with work, outdoor life or another worthy purpose. Transport the sword packed, for example to training.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Norway charges no customs duty on 93.07.0000 from any country, including China; no free trade agreement with China is in force (negotiations are ongoing). Norway charges 25% VAT on imports. The courier usually adds a clearance fee.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Våpenforskrifta, FOR-2021-05-07-1452, §§ 3-6 and 7-3 (Lovdata)lovdata.no
• Straffeloven § 189, unlawful arming in a public place (Lovdata)lovdata.no
• Tolletaten: Varer med restriksjonertoll.no
• Ung.no: legal Q&A on swords and våpenforskriften § 3-6 (informal, not official)ung.no
• Norwegian Customs tariff: 93.07.0000, origin China (duty 0, weapons restriction flag)tolltariffen.toll.no
• Norwegian Customs: upcoming free trade agreements (Norway and China under negotiation)toll.no

Import

Because a katana is not a weapon under the WG, the fedpol import permit for weapons does not apply. It can be imported by post or courier like other goods, with a normal customs declaration. Swiss customs (BAZG) can still check the item and a borderline item (for example a very short blade or a hidden blade) could be judged differently.

Carrying in public

Carrying a dangerous object in public places is banned unless you can credibly show it is justified by its intended use or maintenance (art. 28a WG). Transport it covered and packed, for example to a training hall, and never carry it openly.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Swiss customs duty on tariff number 9307.0000 is CHF 0 per 100 kg gross for goods from China, because Switzerland abolished industrial tariffs on 1 January 2024, so the China Switzerland free trade agreement and a proof of origin are not needed. Swiss import VAT is 8.1% on the price plus shipping. VAT is not charged if the tax amount is CHF 5 or less (about CHF 62 of value). The CHF 150 traveller allowance does not apply to online orders. The courier usually adds a clearance fee.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• fedpol: Waffen in Kürze (brochure, August 2019)vtg.admin.ch
• Waffengesetz (WG), SR 514.54 (fedlex)fedlex.admin.ch
• BAZG: Value added tax, CHF 150 tax-free limitbazg.admin.ch
• BAZG: Internet purchases, postal items and courier shipmentsbazg.admin.ch
• Swiss customs (BAZG) Tares: tariff number 9307.0000, import from China (CHF 0 per 100 kg)xtares.admin.ch

Import

Section 141(4) bans importing these weapons, and the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 section 50 applies. Border Force seizes the item and the buyer can be prosecuted, with up to 10 years in prison according to GOV.UK. A sharpened machine or workshop made katana from China cannot be lawfully imported by a private buyer.

Carrying in public

Carrying any bladed article in public without good reason or lawful authority is a crime (Criminal Justice Act 1988 s.139). Only small non locking folding pocket knives with a blade up to 3 inches are allowed without a reason. A sword must be carried only for a real reason, covered and out of reach.

Sources

• Criminal Justice Act 1988 (Offensive Weapons) Order 1988, Schedule (legislation.gov.uk)legislation.gov.uk
• GOV.UK: Guns, knives, swords and other offensive weapons, UK border controlgov.uk
• GOV.UK: Selling, buying and carrying knivesgov.uk
• Offensive Weapons Act 2019 s.39, delivery of bladed products (legislation.gov.uk)legislation.gov.uk
• GOV.UK: Crime and Policing Act 2026 knife crime factsheetgov.uk
• GOV.UK: VAT and overseas goods sold directly to customers in the UKgov.uk
• UK Trade Tariff: commodity 9307000000 (0% duty, all origins)trade-tariff.service.gov.uk

Import

No national import permit for swords was found. The ARCA rule 'weapons and explosives only with ANMaC authorisation' refers to weapons regulated by Ley 20.429. A private buyer can import for personal use through the courier regime (up to USD 3,000 per shipment, under 50 kg, no commercial purpose). Customs may still inspect or question the item.

Carrying in public

There is no national offence for carrying a sword, but provincial and city contravention codes punish it. For example, the Buenos Aires City Contravention Code (Ley 1472) punishes carrying non conventional weapons, including bladed weapons, in public without a justified reason.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Under the courier regime for personal use, the first USD 400 is free of import duty (VAT and internal taxes still apply, according to ARCA). Above that, import duty and the statistics fee are charged on the excess. These rules changed in 2024 to 2026 (RG 5883/2026, RG 5884/2026), so confirm with the courier. No rule specific to goods from China was found.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Decreto 395/75, regulation of Ley 20.429 (argentina.gob.ar)argentina.gob.ar
• Ley 20.429, Ley Nacional de Armas y Explosivos (argentina.gob.ar)argentina.gob.ar
• ARCA: Régimen de Courierservicioscf.afip.gob.ar
• Ley 1472, Código Contravencional CABA (Boletín Oficial CABA)boletinoficial.buenosaires.gob.ar
• ANMaC: Ingreso con armas al paísargentina.gob.ar

Import

No Army import licence (LPCO) was found for swords because they are not PCE. A private buyer can receive one by international courier, subject to normal Receita Federal checks. Some carriers refuse to carry bladed weapons to Brazil, so check before shipping.

Carrying in public

Carrying a weapon outside the home without a licence is a misdemeanour under art. 19 of the Criminal Misdemeanours Law (Decreto-Lei 3.688/1941). In 2024 the Supreme Court (STF, Tema 857, ARE 901623) confirmed this applies to bladed weapons, judged case by case. Keep it at home and transport it packed.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Brazil charges federal import tax plus state ICMS on international parcels, with no rule specific to China. For a parcel of this value the federal rate can reach 60%, plus ICMS of about 17 to 20% depending on the state. Confirm the current rate with the courier.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Portaria nº 118 COLOG, 4 October 2019, list of PCE (gov.br Siscomex)gov.br
• Decreto 10.030/2019, Regulamento de Produtos Controlados (Planalto)planalto.gov.br
• Decreto-Lei 3.688/1941, Lei das Contravenções Penais (Planalto)planalto.gov.br
• STF news: punishment for carrying bladed weapons upheld (Tema 857)noticias.stf.jus.br
• Lei 8.069/1990, Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente (Planalto)planalto.gov.br
• Receita Federal: goods controlled by the Army (import licensing)gov.br
• Econet: Remessa Conforme changes under Portaria MF 1.342/2026 (secondary source)blog.econeteditora.com.br

Import

CBSA Memorandum D19-13-2 (June 2026) says any weapon that is not specifically prohibited by law is generally admissible. A katana from China can be imported by courier by a private buyer. It must be declared correctly. Hidden blades (such as a sword cane) and automatic or gravity knives are treated differently.

Carrying in public

There is no permit for carrying swords. Carrying any weapon for a dangerous purpose (Criminal Code s.88) and carrying a concealed weapon (s.90) are crimes. Transport it covered, in a case, for a lawful reason.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Courier or mail goods from countries other than the US and Mexico are free of duty and tax only up to CAD 20. Above that, CBSA charges the MFN duty of 7 percent for tariff item 9307.00.00 (no free trade agreement and no preference for China) and GST or HST, plus provincial sales tax where it applies, on the full value. No Canadian surtax on Chinese goods covers heading 9307: the China Surtax Order now covers steel and aluminium (chapters 72, 73 and 76), the 100 percent surtax on Chinese electric vehicles was repealed on 1 March 2026 (SOR/2026-33), and the 2025 steel derivative surtax does not cover chapter 93. The courier usually adds a brokerage fee.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Criminal Code s.84, definitions (Justice Laws)laws-lois.justice.gc.ca
• SOR/98-462, Regulations Prescribing Certain Firearms and Other Weapons as Prohibited (Justice Laws)laws-lois.justice.gc.ca
• CBSA Memorandum D19-13-2, Importing and exporting firearms, weapons and devicescbsa-asfc.gc.ca
• CBSA: Importing by mail or courier, determining duty and taxescbsa-asfc.gc.ca
• CBSA: Increase to low-value shipment thresholdscbsa-asfc.gc.ca
• CBSA Customs Tariff 2026, chapter 93 (9307.00.00, MFN 7%)cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
• China Surtax Order (2024), SOR/2024-187, consolidated textlaws-lois.justice.gc.ca
• Canada Gazette: Order Amending the China Surtax Order, SOR/2026-33gazette.gc.ca
• Steel Derivative Goods Surtax Order, SOR/2025-267laws-lois.justice.gc.ca

Import

A DGMN import permit (permiso de internación) is needed before Customs releases the katana. Individuals aged 18 or over can apply with their ID card and a criminal record certificate. A new permit is needed for each import, valid up to 60 days, and the DGMN answers within about 20 working days. Customs has seized and prosecuted katana imports made without this permit.

Carrying in public

Art. 288 bis of the Penal Code punishes carrying cutting or stabbing weapons in bars, at public events, in schools, and on urban public roads without a reasonable justification. DGMN authorisations only cover moving implements between home and the training place.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Imports pay 19% IVA from the first dollar since 25 October 2025 (Ley 21.713). The general duty is 6%. The China Chile free trade agreement (2006) removes duty on most goods with a certificate of origin, but we did not confirm that 9307 is covered. Fees for DGMN permits are set each year.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Aduanas Chile: Internación de implementos de artes marcialesaduana.cl
• Aduanas Chile: katana seizure under Ley 18.356 (May 2024)aduana.cl
• ChileAtiende: Permiso para internar implementos de artes marcialeschileatiende.gob.cl
• DGMN: Ley 18.356dgmn.cl
• BCN: Reglamento complementario Ley 18.356 (DS 42/1985)bcn.cl
• Aduana de Chile: changes to international purchases (15 October 2025)aduana.cl

Import

Unclear and risky. The 2026 official SAT annex groups swords (9307.00.01) with goods subject to a SEDENA permit or authorisation, but the SEDENA tariff list of 1 November 2022 that we could read did not show 9307. Importing without a lawful purpose is a crime under art. 160. Goods subject to non tariff permits cannot use the simplified courier rate. Seizure at customs is a real risk.

Carrying in public

Carrying a bladed weapon in public without a lawful purpose can be a crime under art. 160 of the Federal Penal Code and under state penal and police codes. Transport only for a clear lawful reason, packed.

Sources

• Código Penal Federal (Cámara de Diputados)diputados.gob.mx
• SAT: Anexo 17 de las RGCE para 2026 (DOF 14 January 2026)sat.gob.mx
• DOF: Acuerdo on goods regulated by SEDENA (1 November 2022)dof.gob.mx
• SAT: 4th amendment to RGCE 2025 (courier global rate 33.5%)sat.gob.mx
• Ley Federal de Armas de Fuego y Explosivos (Cámara de Diputados)diputados.gob.mx
• Official Journal of Mexico: tariff decree of 29 December 2025dof.gob.mx
• Official Journal of Mexico: tariff decree of 23 April 2026dof.gob.mx

Import

Swords can be imported from China to a private buyer without a federal permit or license. U.S. Customs admits swords; only switchblade type knives are prohibited at import. Since 29 August 2025 duty free de minimis treatment is suspended for goods from every country, so every parcel goes through a customs entry and duties are due whatever the value. USPS mailing rules restrict switchblades, not swords, but sharp items must be packed so the edge and point cannot cut through the box. An unsharpened blade is imported the same way.

Carrying in public

Owning a katana at home is legal, but carrying it in public is restricted or banned in many places. Main examples we found: New York City: a knife with a blade of 4 inches or more is illegal in any public place, and any knife in open view is illegal (Admin Code 10-133), with narrow exceptions. New York State: possession of a dangerous knife with intent to use it unlawfully is a crime (Penal Law 265.01). California: carrying a concealed dirk or dagger is a crime (Penal Code 21310), and a fixed blade is treated as not concealed only when worn openly in a sheath at the waist (Penal Code 20200). Los Angeles bans open carry of knives with blades of 3 inches or more in public, with exceptions (Municipal Code 55.10). District of Columbia: carrying any deadly or dangerous weapon, openly or concealed, is banned (D.C. Code 22-4504). Massachusetts: carrying certain blades, including double edged knives and daggers, is a crime (G.L. c. 269, s. 10(b)); Boston also bans carrying knives with blades over 2.5 inches. New Jersey: possessing any weapon in circumstances not manifestly appropriate for a lawful use is a crime (2C:39-5(d)). Illinois: knives are lawful absent unlawful intent, but Chicago limits concealed carry of blades over 2.5 inches (Municipal Code 8-24-020). Texas: since 2017 adults may carry a blade over 5.5 inches (a location restricted knife) in most places, but not in schools, bars, polling places, hospitals, churches and other listed places (Penal Code 46.03); people under 18 may not carry one in public. Washington: carrying or showing a sword in a way that warrants alarm is a crime (RCW 9.41.270); Seattle bans carrying a fixed blade knife in public, concealed or not (SMC 12A.14.080). Florida: concealed carry of a weapon other than a common pocketknife is legal only for people who hold or qualify for a concealed weapons license (Statutes 790.01). Federal buildings and schools ban weapons almost everywhere. On flights, swords are not allowed in the cabin; TSA allows them in checked bags with the blade covered or wrapped. Always transport a katana wrapped, in its case, and straight from the place of purchase to home or to a training place.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

There is no duty free threshold: de minimis treatment has been suspended for goods from China since 2 May 2025 and for every country since 29 August 2025, now under a CBP rule that does not depend on IEEPA (91 FR 37789, 24 June 2026), and the 2025 budget law ends the exemption by statute from 1 July 2027. A katana made in China pays the normal duty for HTS 9307.00.00 (2.7%), plus the Section 301 China tariff of List 4A (7.5%, heading 9903.88.15), plus the Section 301 forced labor tariff on products of China (12.5%, heading 9903.05.31, since 24 July 2026): 22.7% of the customs value in total, plus the customs processing fee (2.77 USD for an electronic informal entry) and the courier's brokerage fee. The IEEPA tariffs on China have not been collected since 24 February 2026, after the Supreme Court ruling of 20 February 2026, and the Section 122 surcharge expired on 23 July 2026. The 12.5% forced labor tariff is challenged at the Court of International Trade (argued 30 September 2026) and a new Section 301 excess capacity tariff has been reported as possible, so the final rate is confirmed at clearance.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• 15 U.S.C. chapter 29, Switchblade Knives (uscode.house.gov)uscode.house.gov
• 19 CFR 12.96, Switchblade knives and admissible fixed blade articles (Cornell LII copy)law.cornell.edu
• USPS Publication 52, section 44 Knives and Sharp Instrumentspe.usps.com
• CBP fact sheet: Suspension of duty free de minimis treatmentcbp.gov
• CBP E-Commerce FAQs (de minimis, mail entry)cbp.gov
• USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, heading 9307hts.usitc.gov
• TSA: What can I bring, swordstsa.gov
• D.C. Code 22-4504, carrying a dangerous weaponcode.dccouncil.gov
• Florida Statutes 790.01, carrying concealed weaponsflsenate.gov
• Florida Statutes 790.17, furnishing weapons to minorsflsenate.gov
• Texas HB 1935 (2017) bill analysis, location restricted knivescapitol.texas.gov
• Washington RCW 9.41.270, weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harmapp.leg.wa.gov
• Massachusetts Trial Court jury instruction 7.680, G.L. c. 269 s. 10(b)mass.gov
• California Penal Code 20510, cane swords (public.law copy)california.public.law
• California Penal Code 20200, knife in sheath at the waist (FindLaw copy)codes.findlaw.com
• CALCRIM 2501, carrying a concealed dirk or dagger (Penal Code 21310, 16470)justia.com
• Alabama Code 13A-11-57, selling a bowie knife or similar knife to a minor (Justia copy)law.justia.com
• New York Penal Law 265.05 (public.law copy)newyork.public.law
• AKTI: New York City knife code (Admin Code 10-133)akti.org
• AKTI: age based knife laws by state (secondary)akti.org
• AKTI: New Jersey knife law summary (secondary)akti.org
• AKTI: Illinois knife law summary, Chicago (secondary)akti.org
• USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule: 9307.00.00 (general rate 2.7%)hts.usitc.gov
• USTR: Section 301 List 4A notice, 84 FR 43304 (20 August 2019), 9307.00.00 in Annex Austr.gov
• Federal Register: Section 301 forced labor actions, 12.5% on products of China (28 July 2026)federalregister.gov
• CBP CSMS 67834313: end of IEEPA tariff collection (22 February 2026)content.govdelivery.com
• Federal Register: indefinite suspension of the de minimis exemption (24 June 2026)federalregister.gov
• Federal Register: Section 122 temporary import surcharge, Proclamation 11012 (25 February 2026)federalregister.gov

Import

No federal import permit is needed for a katana; Australian Border Force may still inspect it. State law then applies at delivery. Victoria makes it an offence to bring or send a prohibited weapon into the state without an approval or exemption, and South Australia bans supplying or possessing one without an exemption. Concealed or disguised swords (sword sticks) are prohibited in every state.

Carrying in public

In every state a sword may only be carried in public with a lawful or reasonable excuse, such as going to training, a display or an event; self defence is never a valid excuse. Examples: QLD Weapons Act s. 57 (carrying a weapon exposed to view), NSW Summary Offences Act 1988 s. 11B and 11C, WA Weapons Act s. 7, Tasmania Police Offences Act 1935 s. 15C (dangerous article), ACT Crimes Act 1900. In Victoria, exempt owners must keep it concealed and out of reach while travelling.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Customs duty on 9307.00.00 is 0% at the general rate, so the China Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA) changes nothing and no proof of origin is needed. GST of 10% applies to imported goods, and the carrier may add clearance charges. Wooden parts may be checked by biosecurity.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956, Schedule 2 (Federal Register of Legislation)legislation.gov.au
• Victoria Police: List of prohibited weaponspolice.vic.gov.au
• Victoria Police: Governor in Council Exemption Orderspolice.vic.gov.au
• Victoria Government Gazette: General exemption to possess swordspolice.vic.gov.au
• Victoria Government Gazette: Exemption to possess swords, re-enactors and collectorspolice.vic.gov.au
• SA Attorney-General's Department: Knife crime lawsagd.sa.gov.au
• SAPOL: Prohibited weapons, items and explosivespolice.sa.gov.au
• WA Police Force: Weapons (controlled weapons include any sword, e.g. katana)wa.gov.au
• Weapons Act 1999 (WA), as at 31 March 2025legislation.wa.gov.au
• Weapons Act 1990 (Qld), currentlegislation.qld.gov.au
• Summary Offences Act 2005 (Qld), currentlegislation.qld.gov.au
• NT Police: Weapons Control Regulations Schedule 1, controlled weaponspfes.nt.gov.au
• Prohibited Weapons Act 1996 (ACT)legislation.act.gov.au
• Tasmania Police: Knife laws educationpolice.tas.gov.au
• NSW Police: Firearms permits FAQ (swords outside the Weapons Prohibition Act)police.nsw.gov.au
• ATO: GST on low value imported goodsato.gov.au
• Australian Border Force: Customs Tariff Schedule 3, chapter 93 (9307.00.00, free)abf.gov.au
• ATO: GST on low value imported goodsato.gov.au

Import

We found no import licence requirement for swords. Cap. 217 import control works through the ban on prohibited weapons, which do not include swords. Customs may still inspect the parcel, and some couriers refuse bladed items. A parcel from mainland China to Hong Kong is a cross boundary export that goes through mainland customs, and mainland postal and express rules prohibit controlled knives, which include a katana (see the origin note).

Carrying in public

Having an offensive weapon in a public place without lawful authority or reasonable excuse is an offence under section 33 of the Public Order Ordinance (Cap. 245), up to 3 years in prison. Section 17 of the Summary Offences Ordinance (Cap. 228) also punishes possession with intent to use it unlawfully. Transport it wrapped and in its box.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Hong Kong charges no customs duty and no GST or VAT on this kind of goods, whatever the origin.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Weapons Ordinance (Cap. 217), Hong Kong e-Legislationelegislation.gov.hk
• Public Order Ordinance (Cap. 245), section 33elegislation.gov.hk
• Summary Offences Ordinance (Cap. 228), section 17elegislation.gov.hk
• Hong Kong Police: Do not carry restricted items in Hong Kongpolice.gov.hk

Import

Importing a sword is not banned as such, but customs only releases it if the importer can lawfully possess it, which means showing a Board of Education registration certificate (or proof that it can be registered) or a Public Safety Commission possession permit. Tokyo Customs also states that swords need import approval from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry. A foreign made katana sent to a private buyer will be held by customs and the buyer may be investigated. Couriers such as FedEx also list swords as prohibited for Japan.

Carrying in public

A real sword cannot be owned at all without a permit or registration. Even legal owners of registered swords must transport them wrapped, in a bag or case, and only for a legitimate reason. Carrying any blade longer than 6 cm without a work related or other legitimate reason is banned (article 22). Carrying a metal imitation sword (mogito, iaito) without a legitimate reason is also banned (article 22-4).

Sources

• Firearms and Swords Possession Control Law (e-Gov law database, law ID 333AC0000000006)laws.e-gov.go.jp
• Cabinet Office OTO FAQ: importing knives and swordswww8.cao.go.jp
• Tokyo Customs: postal items, firearms and swordscustoms.go.jp
• Tokyo Customs Q&A on swords (possession permit required at import)customs.go.jp
• Supreme Court of Japan judgment on refusal to register a foreign swordcourts.go.jp
• Nagano Prefecture Board of Education: sword registration standards (Japanese swords only)pref.nagano.lg.jp
• FedEx Japan: prohibited items (weapons and swords)fedex.com

Import

A normal single edged katana is not on the prohibited import list, so no consent is needed. Items on the list need consent from the Arms Regulator before import, or Customs can detain them. A double edged sword could be questioned under the "at least 2 edges" item; this is our reading, not an official statement.

Carrying in public

Having a knife in a public place or school without reasonable excuse is an offence (Summary Offences Act 1981, s. 13A), and carrying an offensive weapon is an offence under the Crimes Act 1961 (s. 202A). Self defence is not a reasonable excuse. Transport it covered and out of reach.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Customs duty on 9307 is 0% for every origin, so the New Zealand China free trade agreement changes nothing. GST is 15%. Border fees may also apply. Wooden parts (saya, handle) may be inspected for biosecurity.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Customs Import Prohibition (Offensive Weapons) Order 2021 (NZ Legislation)legislation.govt.nz
• Firearms Safety Authority: Importing offensive weaponsfirearmssafety.govt.nz
• NZ Customs: Prohibited and restricted itemscustoms.govt.nz
• Ministry of Justice: Regulations made to support new Arms Actjustice.govt.nz
• Summary Offences Act 1981 (NZ Legislation)legislation.govt.nz
• Inland Revenue: GST on low-value imported goods (special report 2019)taxpolicy.ird.govt.nz
• Inland Revenue: supplying low value imported goodsird.govt.nz

Import

A sword is a controlled item: the buyer must hold written PRD approval before the purchase and before import, and must give it to the courier and to Customs or ICA. Without approval the parcel is seized and the buyer may be prosecuted. The Police state that the buyer, not the overseas seller, is responsible for compliance, and that online availability does not make an item legal.

Carrying in public

Carrying any weapon in public without a lawful purpose is illegal. The Police summary of penalties gives up to 3 years in prison and at least 6 strokes of the cane for having an offensive weapon in public.

Sources

• SPF Police Regulatory Department: Guideline on Prohibited, Controlled and Non-Regulated Items (26 Dec 2025)police.gov.sg
• SPF: FAQ for GEWCA Regulatory Regimepolice.gov.sg
• MHA: Commencement of the Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Actmha.gov.sg
• Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act 2021 (Singapore Statutes Online)sso.agc.gov.sg
• IRAS: GST on imported low-value goodsiras.gov.sg

Import

Each sword import needs a police import permit, and customs only clears a sword when the permit is shown. Korea Customs says import permits are in practice limited to licensed sword manufacturers and dealers, so private buyers must go through a licensed importer. Most swords found at customs are destroyed or sent back. A katana sent by courier straight to a private buyer will be seized.

Carrying in public

Even with a permit, a sword may only be carried or used for the purpose stated in the permit. Carrying it in public without a legitimate reason is not allowed. Never travel with it unwrapped or outside its case.

Sources

• Act on the Safety Management of Guns, Swords, Explosives, etc. (National Law Information Center)law.go.kr
• Same Act, full text copy (Korean Wikisource, older 2017 version)ko.wikisource.org
• Korea Customs Service press release: do not buy swords abroad (import permits limited to licensed dealers)korea.kr
• Seoul Criminal District Court 90No4714 (1991): blunt replica sword is a dogeomlaw.go.kr
• Kyunghyang Shinmun (June 2025): mental health certificate now required for sword permitskhan.co.kr

Import

Before import, the buyer must obtain a consent document (同意文件) from the city or county authority, then present it to Customs for clearance (Regulations art. 21). Within 7 days after import the buyer must take the sword to the local police for inspection and a permit. A parcel without the consent document can be seized. Goods from mainland China: the Bureau of Foreign Trade database of mainland goods lists 9307.00.00.10 (samurai swords) with import regulation code 362 only (police consent document), and no MW0 or MP1 code, so a sword of PRC origin is a permitted import subject to the consent. Controlled goods cannot clear through the air express cargo zone (Air Express Cargo Clearance Regulations, art. 6, amended 23 February 2026), so a katana from China needs a formal cargo entry with the consent document, not an express parcel.

Carrying in public

A permit holder must carry the permit card whenever the sword leaves home (Regulations art. 22). Carrying a controlled knife without a permit at night, in a station, airport, public place, or in a group is punished by up to 2 years in prison (Act art. 15).

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Customs duty on 9307.00.00.10 is reported as 0% (third party tariff site, not the official database). Customs will check the consent document at clearance. Business tax (5% VAT) applies on import.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Controlling Guns, Ammunition and Knives Act (槍砲彈藥刀械管制條例), Laws and Regulations Databaselaw.moj.gov.tw
• Regulations on Permission and Management of Guns, Ammunition and Knives (槍砲彈藥刀械許可及管理辦法)law.moj.gov.tw
• Ministry of the Interior regulation database: 槍砲彈藥刀械許可及管理辦法glrs.moi.gov.tw
• Taipei City Government administrative appeal decision on an imported samurai sword (2002)laws.gov.taipei
• SETN news (2019), sharpened samurai swords need a permit (press, not official)setn.com
• Taiwan Bureau of Foreign Trade: import regulations for mainland China goods (query for 9307)fbfh.trade.gov.tw
• Taiwan Customs Administration: import regulation codesweb.customs.gov.tw
• Air Express Cargo Clearance Regulations (Laws and Regulations Database of Taiwan)law.moj.gov.tw

Import

The Ministry of Economy personal import page for swords (customs item 9307000000) states that a weapons import licence from the Ministry of Economy and Industry is required, even for personal import. Personal import is limited to 5 units, for personal or family use. Under the Free Import Order, the ministry must decide on a licence request within 14 working days. A parcel arriving without this licence is likely to be held by customs.

Carrying in public

Penal Law section 186(a) makes it an offence to hold a knife outside one's home or its grounds unless the person proves a lawful purpose. The maximum penalty is 5 years in prison. Courts apply this to bladed items in general, so a katana must stay at home or be transported for a clear lawful purpose.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Israeli VAT of 18% applies on import. Customs duty on 9307 is reported as 0% for every origin (WITS 2022 data); no Israel China free trade agreement is in force. The personal import exemption is back at USD 75 after the Knesset revoked the higher thresholds in 2026. The import licence applies whatever the origin.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Ministry of Economy and Industry: Personal import of swords (customs item 9307000000)apps.economy.gov.il
• Free Import Order 5774-2014 (Nevo)nevo.co.il
• Ministry of Economy and Industry: Free Import Orderapps.economy.gov.il
• Israel Tax Authority: Knife import request (form 582)gov.il
• Knesset: Penal Law amendment to section 186 (knife and knuckleduster)fs.knesset.gov.il
• Times of Israel: Knesset revokes the order raising the personal import exemptiontimesofisrael.com

Import

Weapons can only be imported with a licence from the Ministry of Interior. A customs guide from the international removals federation FIDI lists swords and daggers as prohibited imports into Qatar, and other guides agree. We found no official route for a private buyer to receive a sword by courier.

Carrying in public

Carrying a white weapon without a personal or professional need is punished with up to 6 months in prison, a fine of up to QR 5,000, or both, according to press reports of the law. The penalty is reported to be higher in public places, public transport and places of worship.

Sources

• Al Meezan: Law No. 14 of 1999 concerning Weapons, Ammunition and Explosivesalmeezan.qa
• FIDI Customs Guide: Qatar import (prohibited items include swords and daggers)fidi.org
• Qatar Ministry of Interior on X: weapons licences under Law No. 14 of 1999x.com
• Qatar Customs (General Authority of Customs)customs.gov.qa

Import

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) stated publicly in 2021 and 2022 that individuals may import white weapons of all types, provided the quantity is for personal use. The customs inspector at the port of entry decides what counts as a personal quantity. Commercial quantities need a commercial registration for the same activity. These are customer service statements, not a published regulation.

Carrying in public

Carrying weapons is banned near the Two Holy Mosques, other mosques, military and oil sites, government offices, airports, schools and public gatherings. Using or showing a white weapon to threaten or hurt someone is punished. Keep the katana at home and transport it wrapped and out of reach.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Import VAT of 15% applies. Customs duty follows the GCC common tariff, reported at 5% for heading 9307 whatever the origin; no GCC China free trade agreement is in force. Online store parcels under SAR 1,000 need no clearance permit and pay a SAR 15 declaration fee.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Ajel: Customs says individuals may import knives and white weapons (June 2021)ajel.sa
• ZATCA customer care reply on X: white weapons of all types allowed for individuals in personal quantitiesx.com
• Ajel: White weapons not criminalised under Saudi law, experts call for rules (February 2019)ajel.sa
• Saudipedia: Law of Arms and Ammunition in Saudi Arabiasaudipedia.com
• Bureau of Experts: Saudi laws database (official text of the Law of Arms and Ammunition)laws.boe.gov.sa
• ZATCA: Integrated customs tariffzatca.gov.sa
• ZATCA: e-stores customerszatca.gov.sa

Import

Dubai Customs and the UAE government portal list arms and weapons as restricted goods that are released only with approval from the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Defence or Armed Forces. No official route for a private buyer to import a sword by courier was found. Several commercial guides and sword sellers report that swords are seized at UAE customs.

Carrying in public

Penal Code Article 405 (in force since 2 January 2022) punishes carrying a tool that can cut, pierce or stab without a reason linked to the person's work, with prison, a fine, or both. Carrying any weapon, even licensed, is banned in military, government and vital facilities.

Sources

• Federal Decree-Law No. 17 of 2019 (UAE Ministry of Justice, English)elaws.moj.gov.ae
• Implementing Regulation, Decision No. 59 of 2020 (UAE Ministry of Justice, Arabic)elaws.moj.gov.ae
• Dubai Customs: Prohibited and Restricted Goodsdubaicustoms.gov.ae
• UAE government portal: Customs clearance (restricted goods and approving authorities)u.ae
• The National: UAE law bans possession of knives and sharp tools not needed for work (Article 405)thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com
• Embassy of India in the UAE: Advisory regarding sharp objectsindembassyuae.gov.in

Import

Article 12 requires a special licence from the Minister of Interior to import the weapons covered by the law. A private courier parcel without this licence would be seized and could expose the buyer to prosecution.

Carrying in public

Unlicensed possession or carrying is a crime. The penalty rises to at least 3 months in prison and a fine of EGP 1,000 to 10,000 in gatherings, public transport or places of worship.

Sources

• Law No. 394 of 1954 on Weapons and Ammunition, consolidated Arabic text to Law 163 of 2022 (Alberonsy)alberonsy.com
• Law No. 394 of 1954, English translation (Andersen Egypt)eg.andersen.com
• Manshurat: Egyptian legislation databasemanshurat.org
• Akhbar El Yom: customs rules and exceptions for importing white weaponsakhbarelyom.com
• Egyptian Customs Authoritycustoms.gov.eg

Import

The WTO quantitative restrictions record for Mauritius (measure 5913, current version valid from 22 June 2026) lists a prohibition on importing swords and similar arms, with no exception mentioned. The Mauritius Revenue Authority says weapons are held by customs and handed to the police, and released only with a police permit.

Carrying in public

Bearing an offensive weapon is an offence under section 29 of the Criminal Code (Supplementary) Act, and the Public Gathering Act punishes having an offensive weapon at a public gathering. Press reports put the penalty at up to 2 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 100,000 when there is no valid reason.

Sources

• WTO Quantitative Restrictions database: Mauritius measure 5913, prohibition on swords (HS 9307)qr.wto.org
• Mauritius Revenue Authority: Import restrictionsmra.mu
• Press or secondary source (Mauritius), kohenavocats.comkohenavocats.com
• Press or secondary source (Mauritius), fr.allafrica.comfr.allafrica.com
• Mauritius Police Forcepolice.govmu.org

Import

Import needs a prior written import licence. Applications go to the foreign trade services, and the Interior Ministry reviews them and decides. A private parcel without a licence is likely to be stopped by customs (ADII). We found no simple route for a private buyer.

Carrying in public

Penal Code Article 303 bis (added by Law 38-00 in 2001) punishes a person arrested, in circumstances that threaten public order or the safety of people or property, while carrying a cutting, blunt or suffocating instrument, with 1 month to 1 year in prison and a fine of 1,200 to 5,000 dirhams, unless the person's work or a legitimate reason justifies it. The government announced in 2025 that it plans tougher penalties.

Sources

• Press or secondary source (Morocco), lavieeco.comlavieeco.com
• Ministry of Finance, ADII: customs guide for Moroccans abroad (goods subject to import licence)finances.gov.ma
• Press or secondary source (Morocco), bladi.netbladi.net
• Penal Code of Morocco, consolidated version 2018 (Article 303 bis)onousc.ma
• Press or secondary source (Morocco), medias24.commedias24.com
• Moroccan Customs (ADII)douane.gov.ma

Import

The SARS Prohibited and Restricted Imports and Exports list (version of 23 October 2026) lists heading 9307.00 (swords, cutlasses, bayonets, lances and similar arms) with no prohibition, restriction or permit. No import permit was found for a sword.

Carrying in public

Section 3 of the Dangerous Weapons Act makes it an offence to possess a dangerous weapon in circumstances that raise a reasonable suspicion of intent to use it unlawfully, with a fine or up to 3 years in prison. Courts look at the place, time, behaviour and the way the object is carried or displayed. Carrying weapons at gatherings and protests is also restricted. Transport the katana sheathed and wrapped.

Duties and taxes (indicative)

Customs duty on 9307.00 is 15% at the general rate (SACU tariff, WITS 2023 data), with no preference for China, plus import VAT of 15%. Courier parcels of R500 or less pay a 20% flat rate plus 15% VAT instead. The buyer pays these on delivery.

You pay any duty, tax and clearance fee due under the rules of this country, usually on delivery. KTN never pays them for you, and our prices never include them.

Sources

• Dangerous Weapons Act 15 of 2013 (Parliament of South Africa)parliament.gov.za
• Dangerous Weapons Act, section 1 definitions (Acts Online)acts.co.za
• South African Government: South Africa ushers in the new Dangerous Weapons Actgov.za
• SARS: Prohibited, restricted and counterfeit goods (list of 23 October 2026)sars.gov.za
• SARS: Prohibited and Restricted Imports and Exports list (xlsx, 23 October 2026)sars.gov.za
• Baker McKenzie: South Africa ends the VAT exemption for low value imports (September 2025)bakermckenzie.com