Curacao Customs Import and Export Policy

Customs Clearance Requirements

Battery Restrictions: Curaçao no longer accepts battery shipments (including those with built-in batteries) under any packaging conditions.

Recommended Shipping Method: DHL is recommended for shipments to this island nation, but there are size and weight restrictions.

Commercial Invoice: An original commercial invoice is required for this region.

Free Trade Zone Policy: Curaçao has two free trade zones: the Airport Free Trade Zone and the Curaçao Harbor Free Trade Zone. Companies located within these zones enjoy tax benefits such as exemption from import and export duties, sales tax, and a reduced corporate income tax rate. The free trade zones are managed by CURINDE, which offers services such as warehousing, cargo display, packaging, manufacturing, and customs clearance.

Document Requirements

Signed commercial invoice, packing list, ocean bill of lading or house bill of lading/airway bill, and other necessary documents are required for imported goods.
Depending on the nature of the goods, additional documents such as import licenses, certificates of origin, insurance documents, and inspection reports may also be required.

Customs Duties and Inspection

Import duties are payable on imported goods. The duty rate is determined based on the type and value of the goods.
Customs will inspect imported goods to ensure that they match the declared contents and comply with relevant regulations.

Exit Permit

Export goods must be loaded only after obtaining an "exit permit".
Carriers can apply for an exit permit in advance for manifest submission.

Document Requirements

Export bill of lading (ocean, air) or export cargo manifest (land transport), packing list, invoice, export contract, and other necessary documents are required for export goods.
Depending on the nature of the goods, additional documents such as certificates of origin, insurance policies, and letters of credit may also be required.

Customs Duties and Inspection

For export goods that are subject to tax after customs clearance, the tax should be paid through designated banks or the account between the exporter and customs.
Customs will inspect export goods to ensure that they match the declared contents and comply with relevant regulations.