CUSTOMS DUTIES: AFGHANISTAN TO BURKINA FASO

Overview of Customs Duties from Afghanistan to Burkina Faso

Trade between Afghanistan and Burkina Faso is subject to Burkina Faso's customs regulations and tariff structure. As a member of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), Burkina Faso applies the Common External Tariff (CET) system to imports from non-member countries, including Afghanistan. Understanding these regulations is essential for exporters seeking to ship goods to Burkina Faso, as tariffs can represent a significant cost factor in the total landed price of imported merchandise.

Exporters from Afghanistan must comply with Burkina Faso's import requirements, documentation standards, and applicable duty rates based on the Harmonized System (HS) classification of their products. This guide provides essential information about the customs duties, required documentation, and key regulations that apply to goods exported from Afghanistan to Burkina Faso.

General Duty Rates Under WAEMU Common External Tariff

Burkina Faso applies a four-tiered tariff system through the WAEMU Common External Tariff (CET). The following table outlines the standard duty rates by product category:

Product Category	Tariff Rate	Description
Social Goods	0%	Essential items classified as social goods
Raw Materials and Capital Goods	5%	Unprocessed materials and equipment for production
Intermediate Goods	10%	Semi-processed goods used in manufacturing
Final Consumer Goods	20%	Finished products for retail sale

Product-specific tariff rates may vary based on the Harmonized System (HS) code classification. For precise tariff rates applicable to your specific goods, consult the Customs Info Database Tariff Lookup Tool available on trade.gov or contact customs authorities in Burkina Faso.

Required Documentation

Exporters from Afghanistan must prepare and submit the following documentation to facilitate customs clearance in Burkina Faso:

• Commercial Invoice - Detailed invoice showing product descriptions, quantities, unit prices, and total value
• Packing List - Complete breakdown of contents, weights, and packaging specifications
• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill - Proof of shipment and transportation details
• Certificate of Origin - Documentation certifying the country of origin (Afghanistan)
• Import License - Where required by Burkina Faso regulations for specific product categories
• Certificates of Compliance - Quality, safety, or health certificates as applicable to the product type
• Customs Declaration Form - Completed declaration of goods being imported
• Insurance Documents - Proof of cargo insurance if applicable

Important Regulations

Exporters must adhere to the following key regulations when shipping goods to Burkina Faso:

• Harmonized System (HS) Classification: All goods must be properly classified using the correct HS codes to determine applicable tariff rates
• Customs Valuation: Goods are valued using the transaction value method, based on the actual price paid or payable for the merchandise
• Prohibited and Restricted Items: Certain products may be prohibited or restricted from importation; verify restrictions before shipment
• Product Labeling: Goods must comply with Burkina Faso labeling requirements, including language specifications and product information
• Trade Standards: Products must meet applicable quality, safety, and technical standards established by Burkina Faso authorities
• Customs Procedures: All shipments must clear customs at designated ports of entry; informal entry procedures are not permitted for commercial goods

Trade Agreements and Preferential Access

As a member of WAEMU, Burkina Faso participates in regional trade agreements that may affect tariff treatment. Afghanistan is not a WAEMU member, so goods exported from Afghanistan do not qualify for preferential tariff rates under WAEMU agreements. Standard Common External Tariff rates apply to Afghan exports.

Exporters should verify whether any bilateral trade agreements exist between Afghanistan and Burkina Faso that might provide preferential treatment. Additionally, certain international agreements on specific product categories (such as pharmaceuticals or agricultural products) may apply. Consultation with Burkina Faso's customs authority or a qualified customs broker is recommended to identify all applicable agreements and potential tariff benefits.

For detailed product-specific tariff information and to ensure compliance with all current regulations, exporters are advised to contact the U.S. Department of Commerce Trade Information Center or engage a licensed customs broker familiar with Burkina Faso import procedures.