CUSTOMS DUTIES: AFGHANISTAN TO DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Customs Duties and Import Regulations: Afghanistan to Dominican Republic

When exporting goods from Afghanistan to the Dominican Republic, exporters must navigate the Dominican Republic's customs regulations and tariff structure. The Dominican Republic applies duties and taxes on imported goods based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) price, with all collections made in Dominican pesos using the unified foreign exchange rate. Understanding these requirements is essential for successful international trade between these nations.

Tariff Structure and Duty Rates

The Dominican Republic employs a two-tier tax system for most imported goods. The basic tariff rates can range from 0 percent to 99 percent depending on the product classification and applicable trade agreements. Additionally, a luxury or excise tax (Impuesto Selectivo al Consumo) applies to certain goods, ranging from 15 to 60 percent.

Product Category	Tariff Rate Range	Luxury/Excise Tax	Notes
General Merchandise	0% - 99%	Not applicable	Varies by HS code - contact our experts for specific rates
Vehicles	Varies by HS code	15% - 60%	Subject to luxury tax as non-essential goods
Alcoholic Beverages	Varies by HS code	15% - 60%	Subject to luxury tax
Tobacco Products	Varies by HS code	15% - 60%	Subject to luxury tax
Perfumes and Cosmetics	Varies by HS code	15% - 60%	Subject to luxury tax
Jewelry	Varies by HS code	15% - 60%	Subject to luxury tax

Required Documentation for Export

Exporters shipping goods from Afghanistan to the Dominican Republic must prepare and submit the following documentation:

• Commercial Invoice - detailing the goods, quantities, and CIF value in USD
• Packing List - providing detailed information about packaging and contents
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill - proof of shipment and transportation
• Certificate of Origin - establishing the country of origin of goods
• Import License or Permit - where required by Dominican Republic regulations
• Insurance Certificate - evidence of cargo insurance coverage
• Product-specific certifications - health, safety, or quality certificates as applicable
• Customs Declaration Forms - completed according to Dominican Republic requirements

Important Customs Regulations

Several key regulations govern the import of goods into the Dominican Republic:

• Valuation Method: All duties and taxes are calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) price in U.S. dollars, multiplied by the unified foreign exchange rate.
• Dual Tax System: Most imports are subject to both a basic tariff and potentially a luxury/excise tax, unless exemptions apply by law.
• Prohibited and Restricted Goods: Certain items may be prohibited or restricted from import. Verify product eligibility before shipping.
• Labeling and Marking Requirements: Imported goods must comply with Dominican Republic labeling and marking standards.
• Currency Collection: All duties and taxes are collected in Dominican pesos at the time of customs clearance.

Trade Agreements and Preferential Access

While Afghanistan is not a signatory to CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), exporters should be aware that this agreement significantly influences the Dominican Republic's trade policies. The CAFTA-DR provides preferential tariff treatment to member nations, with many U.S. exports entering duty-free or through extended phase-out periods.

Afghan exporters should consult the Dominican Republic's customs database and current trade agreements to determine applicable rates for their specific products. For precise tariff classifications and duty calculations, use the Customs Info Database tariff look-up tool or contact trade specialists familiar with Dominican Republic import regulations.

Recommendation: Before shipping goods, verify all applicable duties, taxes, and regulatory requirements with Dominican Republic customs authorities or a licensed customs broker to ensure compliance and avoid delays.