🇬🇲 Import Customs & Duties: Gambia
Quick Facts
Duty-free threshold
$50
Packages under $50, duty free
VAT / Sales Tax
15%
CIF value + duty. ECOWAS community levy also applies.
Clearance Time
3-7 days express, 14-21 postal days
typical processing
Duty Rates by Category
| Category | Duty Rate | HS Chapter |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 5-20% | 85 |
| Clothing | 20-35% | 61-62 |
| Footwear | 20-35% | 64 |
| Food & Beverages | 5-35% | 01-24 |
| Machinery | 0-5% | 84 |
| Cosmetics | 20% | 33 |
| Books | 0% | 49 |
| Toys & Games | 10-20% | 95 |
Rates shown are for standard goods. Exact rate depends on the HS code of your item.
Customs Clearance Process
Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) manages customs. ECOWAS CET applies (5 bands: 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 35%). ASYCUDA World system for declarations. Port of Banjul is the main entry point. Customs broker required for commercial imports. English documentation accepted.
What to Actually Expect
Small country with limited port capacity. Known as a re-export hub for goods transiting to Senegal and other neighbors. Customs relatively straightforward for the region. English-speaking which simplifies documentation. Limited express courier options. Banjul port handles most imports.
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 Trade for controlled goods. Arms, narcotics prohibited. Pharmaceutical imports need Medicines Control Agency approval. Used vehicle imports allowed but taxed heavily.
Certificate of Origin
ECOWAS certificate for regional trade. Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) issues certificates. AGOA certificate for US market access.
Learn more →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 Gambia
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty-free threshold for Gambia?
The duty-free (de minimis) threshold for imports into Gambia is $50. Goods valued below this amount are exempt from customs duties.
What is the VAT rate on imports to Gambia?
The VAT/tax rate on imports to Gambia is 15%. VAT applies to: CIF value + duty. ECOWAS community levy also applies.
How long does customs clearance take in Gambia?
Typical customs clearance in Gambia takes 3-7 days express, 14-21 postal days. Express shipments usually clear faster.
What documents are needed to import into Gambia?
To import into Gambia, 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 Gambia?
Gambia 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.