Colombia Customs Import and Export Taxes

Summary:

The article reflects Colombia's system for levying taxes on imported and exported goods, including import duties, value-added tax, and other potential taxes such as statistical and consumption taxes.

Overview

Whether an individual or a business entity imports goods into Colombia, import duties and other taxes must be paid. All import taxes are calculated based on the value of the goods, specifically the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value. In addition to import duties, imported goods are also subject to value-added tax, and in some cases, consumption tax.

Import Duties

Colombia's import duty rates range from 0% to 35%, with an average rate of 11.31%. Certain products, such as books, laptops, and other electronic devices, are exempt from import duties.

Value-Added Tax (VAT)

VAT = Standard VAT rate of 16% (or preferential VAT rate) x (CIF value + import duty + consumption tax).

Standard Tax Threshold

There is no minimum threshold for any taxes in Colombia. All imported goods, regardless of value, are subject to taxes.

Other Taxes

Statistical Fee: 0.05% of the CIF value. The maximum statistical fee charged per shipment is US$500.
Consumption Tax: For tobacco and alcohol products, a consumption tax ranging from 20% to 55% is levied on the sum of the CIF value and import duty.