🇩🇲 Import Customs & Duties: Dominica
Quick Facts
Duty-free threshold
$50
Packages under $50, duty free
VAT / Sales Tax
15%
CIF value + duty. VAT at 15% on most imports.
Clearance Time
3-7 days
typical processing
Duty Rates by Category
| Category | Duty Rate | HS Chapter |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 0-20% | 85 |
| Clothing | 20% | 61-62 |
| Footwear | 20% | 64 |
| Food & Beverages | 0-20% | 01-24 |
| Machinery | 0-5% | 84 |
| Cosmetics | 20% | 33 |
| Books | 0% | 49 |
| Toys & Games | 20% | 95 |
Rates shown are for standard goods. Exact rate depends on the HS code of your item.
Customs Clearance Process
Dominica Customs and Excise Division. CARICOM CET applies (0-20%). ASYCUDA World system. Main port at Roseau (Woodbridge Bay). Small volume of imports handled by limited staff.
What to Actually Expect
Very small island nation still recovering from Hurricane Maria (2017). Infrastructure damage means port capacity is limited. DHL available but expensive; FedEx limited. Postal service very slow, 3-6 weeks. CARICOM CET moderate. VAT at 15%. Customs staff is small and can be overwhelmed. Expect significant delays for non-courier shipments.
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
Required for firearms, ammunition, pharmaceuticals, and certain agricultural products. Environmental surcharge may apply.
Certificate of Origin
CARICOM Certificate of Origin for preferential regional trade. General certificates from Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce.
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 Dominica
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty-free threshold for Dominica?
The duty-free (de minimis) threshold for imports into Dominica is $50. Goods valued below this amount are exempt from customs duties.
What is the VAT rate on imports to Dominica?
The VAT/tax rate on imports to Dominica is 15%. VAT applies to: CIF value + duty. VAT at 15% on most imports.
How long does customs clearance take in Dominica?
Typical customs clearance in Dominica takes 3-7 days. Express shipments usually clear faster.
What documents are needed to import into Dominica?
To import into Dominica, 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 Dominica?
Dominica 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.