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Guide to Importing and Exporting in Nicaragua

A comprehensive guide that covers all aspects of international trade in Nicaragua, from documentation requirements to specific regulations for different types of products.

Required Documentation for Imports

To import into Nicaragua, importers must submit specific documentation to the General Directorate of Customs (DGA). The process requires organization and compliance with established requirements.

The basic documents include:

  • Bill of Lading
  • Packing list
  • Original commercial invoice
  • Declaration of the authenticity of the invoice
  • Permits issued by Nicaraguan authorities according to the type of product
  • Certificate of origin to determine the applicability of CAFTA-DR and other trade agreements

All importers must register as taxpayers with the Directorate General of Revenue (DGI). Once the tax identification number is obtained, it must be registered with the DGA. Additionally, importers must submit proof of fiscal solvency on a monthly basis.

Use of Customs Brokers

The use of licensed customs agents is mandatory in Nicaragua. These professionals are aware of the specific procedures and requirements that facilitate the customs clearance of goods.

Customs agents are responsible for:

  • Managing documentation before the DGA
  • Verify compliance with specific regulations depending on the type of product
  • Coordinate the release of goods
  • Manage the payment of duties and fees

Regulations by Product Type

Food and Beverages

The Food Inspection Office of the Ministry of Health oversees import permits for food and beverage products. The Nicaraguan Institute for Agricultural Protection and Health (IPSA) regulates imports of unprocessed foods.

If a product is imported in bulk and then packaged in Nicaragua, the importer must present a phytosanitary or sanitary certificate from both the country of origin and the Nicaraguan Food Inspection Office. For sugar, the Ministry of Development, Industry and Trade issues specific import licenses.

Drugs and Cosmetics

The Pharmaceutical Office of the Ministry of Health oversees import permits for medicines, cosmetics and hygiene products. Importers must submit documentation that demonstrates safety and efficacy, in addition to paying the corresponding fees to obtain health registration.

Payment for laboratory tests is also required, with fees that vary depending on whether the products are manufactured in Nicaragua or imported. For information on specific fee amounts, contact the Ministry of Health directly.

Agricultural and Livestock Products

The IPSA and the Ministry of Health (MINSA) share responsibility for developing and implementing agricultural regulations. The IPSA is responsible for the inspection of agricultural products at the border and the regulation of animal feed, agrochemicals and seeds. The MINSA regulates processed food products.

Importers must obtain an import permit before making any shipment. Processed foods and agrochemicals also require a MINSA or IPSA health registration number. Effective communication between exporter and importer is essential for establishing a successful business relationship.

Telecommunications

The Nicaraguan Institute of Telecommunications and Postal Services (TELCOR) operates under the authority of the General Law on Telecommunications and Postal Services. TELCOR operates as an autonomous entity under the guidance of the Presidency and has the power to implement regulations and monitor compliance in telecommunications and postal services.

TELCOR issues import permits for communications-related products such as:

  • Radiocommunication equipment
  • Cable TV installation equipment
  • Telephone switching equipment
  • Commercial broadcasting equipment

Containers for Liquefied and Compressed Gases

The Fire Department Fire Prevention Office issues import permits for new and used cylinders or containers intended for liquefied or other compressed gases.

Firearms

The Office of Firearms and Ammunition of the National Police administers a system of import permits for firearms, ammunition and explosives under the Special Act for the Control and Regulation of Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives and Related Materials.

Donations

The process for sending donations to Nicaragua includes requesting authorization from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The donor organization may consider hiring a local customs broker familiar with Nicaraguan customs procedures to ensure that the donation is not lost or mishandled.

Customs can seize and auction a shipment if it is not removed from its warehouses after 20 days, although the importer may pay a fine to prevent it from being auctioned.

Trade Treaties and Their Impact

CAFTA-DR

Nicaragua, along with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and the Dominican Republic, signed the CAFTA-DR in 2004. The agreement came into force for Nicaragua and the United States in 2006. This treaty establishes significant tariff preferences for products that meet established rules of origin.

The certificate of origin is essential for determining the applicability of CAFTA-DR and other trade agreements, allowing access to preferential tariff rates.

Other Trade Treaties

Nicaragua has signed and ratified bilateral investment treaties with multiple countries including Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Cuba, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Iran, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, the Russian Federation, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

Additionally, Nicaragua has investment agreements with Chile, Mexico, Panama, Taiwan and South Korea. The country is part of Central American free trade agreements with the European Union and South Korea.

Nicaragua also participates in a separate free trade agreement with member countries of ALBA (Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America): Cuba, Venezuela, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenadines, and Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Customs Regulations and Trade Facilitation

The Customs Administration and Trade Facilitation Chapter of CAFTA-DR establishes rules designed to promote transparency, predictability and customs efficiency. Under the agreement, Nicaragua must publish its customs measures in a timely manner, including publication on the internet.

The Central American Uniform Customs Code establishes harmonized customs procedures for Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Honduras, including uniform documents, electronic transmission of customs information and electronic prepayment of charges, duties and taxes.

In 2015, Nicaragua ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement of the World Trade Organization (WTO), which contains provisions to expedite the movement, release and dispatch of goods, including goods in transit.

Technical Norms and Standards

The CAFTA-DR Chapter on Technical Barriers to Trade requires Nicaragua to rely on the WTO Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade to promote transparency, accountability and cooperation on issues of rules and regulations.

National Standards and Quality Commission

The Technical Standards and Quality Act establishes a National Standards and Quality Commission, which includes members from the public and private sectors to develop standards and regulations. The Ministry of Development, Industry and Trade serves as the Commission's secretariat.

The Ministry's Department of Standardization and Metrology is responsible for managing and supervising standardization and regulation work at the national level.

Conformity Assessment System

The Accredited Conformity Assessment System is comprised of 16 testing laboratories, two calibration laboratories and three inspection bodies. Nicaragua is a signatory to multilateral recognition agreements with the Inter-American Accreditation Cooperation (IAAC) and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC).

Public Consultation on Regulations

Public consultations on Nicaraguan standards and technical regulations last 60 days as established by Nicaraguan regulations. However, at the request of domestic or foreign stakeholders, the period may be extended to an additional 30 days.

The Information and Notification Office is responsible for implementing the transparency provisions contained in the Technical Barriers to Trade and Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures agreements, as well as current national legislation.

Considerations for Foreign Importers

Customs Valuation Requirements

Nicaragua applies the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement to determine customs duties. It is important for importers to submit complete and accurate documentation on the value of the goods to avoid delays in customs clearance.

Temporary Entry

There are provisions for the temporary entry of goods under certain conditions. Importers should consult with their customs broker regarding specific requirements for temporary entry depending on the type of merchandise and purpose of the import.

Export Controls

For exporters who ship products to Nicaragua from the United States or other countries, it is important to be aware of the export controls that may apply in the country of origin. Certain products may require export licenses before shipping.

Secretariat of Central American Economic Integration

The Secretariat for Central American Economic Integration (SIECA) provides technical and administrative support to Nicaragua, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras in their efforts to establish a Central American Common Market.

SIECA works to harmonize trade regulations and facilitate trade between member countries, which benefits importers and exporters operating in the Central American region.

International Trade Office

The International Trade Office of the Ministry of Development, Industry and Trade is responsible for the negotiation and implementation of trade agreements. This office can provide up-to-date information on changes in business regulations and new agreements.

Conclusions

Carrying out import and export operations in Nicaragua requires detailed knowledge of regulations, appropriate documentation and compliance with specific requirements depending on the type of product. Key points include:

  • Maintain complete and accurate documentation for all imports
  • Work with licensed customs brokers to facilitate the process
  • Get specific permissions based on the type of product before shipping
  • Take advantage of CAFTA-DR and other trade agreements through appropriate certificates of origin
  • Stay up to date on changes in regulations and requirements
  • Establish effective communication with business partners

International trade in Nicaragua offers significant opportunities for companies that understand and comply with the established regulatory framework. Proper preparation and knowledge of procedures ensure successful and efficient business operations.

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