🇩🇯 Import Customs & Duties: Djibouti
Quick Facts
Duty-free threshold
$50
Packages under $50, duty free
VAT / Sales Tax
15%
CIF value + duty.
Clearance Time
2-5 days express, 7-21 postal days
typical processing
Duty Rates by Category
| Category | Duty Rate | HS Chapter |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 0-20% | 85 |
| Clothing | 20-33% | 61-62 |
| Footwear | 20-33% | 64 |
| Food & Beverages | 0-26% | 01-24 |
| Machinery | 0-8% | 84 |
| Cosmetics | 20-26% | 33 |
| Books | 0% | 49 |
| Toys & Games | 15-26% | 95 |
Rates shown are for standard goods. Exact rate depends on the HS code of your item.
Customs Clearance Process
Direction des Douanes et Droits Indirects manages customs. ASYCUDA World system for electronic declarations. Djibouti port is a major regional logistics hub (is Ethiopia's primary port access). Free trade zone (DIFTZ) offers reduced tariffs. French documentation required.
What to Actually Expect
Major transit port for Ethiopia and East Africa. Port infrastructure is modern (Doraleh Container Terminal). Customs relatively efficient for the region. French/Arabic documentation preferred. Express couriers operate well. Free trade zone simplifies transit trade.
Required Documents
Commercial Invoice
Item description, quantity, value, sender and receiver details
Packing List
Detailed description of contents in each package
Customs Declaration (CN22/CN23)
Required for postal shipments
Air Waybill (AWB)
Generated by the carrier when booking the shipment
Certificate of Origin
May be required for reduced duties (FTA/preferential rates)
Export/Import License
For restricted goods (electronics, medicines, chemicals)
Import License Requirements
Import license from Ministry of Commerce. Arms, narcotics prohibited. Pharmaceuticals require health ministry authorization. Khat imports regulated. Free zone goods have separate procedures.
Certificate of Origin
COMESA certificate for regional trade. Chambre de Commerce de Djibouti issues certificates. IGAD regional cooperation certificates.
Prohibited & Restricted Items
Prohibited
- xNarcotics and illegal drugs
- xExplosives and flammable materials
- xWeapons and ammunition
- xCounterfeit goods
- xCounterfeit currency and documents
Restricted (permit required)
- !Medicines and pharmaceuticals
- !Food and beverages
- !Plants and seeds
- !Electronics (lithium batteries)
- !Perfumes and cosmetics (volume limits)
Useful Links
Popular routes to Djibouti
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty-free threshold for Djibouti?
The duty-free (de minimis) threshold for imports into Djibouti is $50. Goods valued below this amount are exempt from customs duties.
What is the VAT rate on imports to Djibouti?
The VAT/tax rate on imports to Djibouti is 15%. VAT applies to: CIF value + duty.
How long does customs clearance take in Djibouti?
Typical customs clearance in Djibouti takes 2-5 days express, 7-21 postal days. Express shipments usually clear faster.
What documents are needed to import into Djibouti?
To import into Djibouti, you typically need: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill, and customs declaration. Some goods may require a certificate of origin or import license.
What items are prohibited from import into Djibouti?
Djibouti prohibits the import of narcotics, weapons, counterfeit goods, certain animal products, and hazardous materials. Restrictions may also apply to alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, and certain electronics.