CUSTOMS DUTIES: AFGHANISTAN TO GUATEMALA

Overview of Customs Duties from Afghanistan to Guatemala

Trade between Afghanistan and Guatemala is subject to Guatemala's customs regulations and tariff schedules. Guatemala, as a member of the Central American Common Market (CACM), applies a common external tariff structure for goods entering the country. Exporters from Afghanistan should be aware that Guatemala maintains specific duty rates based on product classification under the Harmonized System (HS) codes, with rates varying significantly depending on the nature of goods being imported.

Guatemala's average applied tariff rate on all products is approximately 2.4 percent, though specific categories may have higher or lower rates. Understanding the applicable duty rates, required documentation, and regulatory requirements is essential for successful trade operations between these two countries.

General Duty Rates

Guatemala applies tariff rates based on the CACM common external tariff schedule. The following table outlines typical duty rates for major product categories:

Product Category	Typical Duty Rate	Notes
Agricultural and Industrial Goods (General)	0-15%	Most products fall within this range under CACM
Alcoholic Beverages	Up to 40%	Exception category with higher rates
Cigarettes with Tobacco Content	Up to 20%	Specific exception for tobacco products
Vehicles	Up to 20%	Various vehicle types subject to elevated rates
Firearms	Up to 20%	Restricted and subject to higher duties
Specific HS Codes	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	For precise rates on particular products, consultation recommended

Required Documentation

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

• Commercial invoice detailing product description, quantity, unit price, and total value
• Packing list showing contents, weight, dimensions, and packaging details
• Bill of lading or airway bill for transportation proof
• Certificate of origin to establish the country of manufacture
• Product specifications and technical data sheets where applicable
• Import license or permit if required for the specific product category
• Health and safety certificates for food, pharmaceutical, or chemical products
• Customs declaration forms completed according to Guatemalan requirements
• Insurance documentation if goods are insured during transit

Important Regulations

Several key regulations apply to imports into Guatemala:

• Tariff Classification: All goods must be properly classified under the appropriate HS code to determine applicable duty rates. Misclassification can result in penalties and delays.
• Prohibited and Restricted Imports: Guatemala maintains lists of prohibited items and restricted goods that may require special permits or licenses prior to importation.
• Labeling and Marking Requirements: Products must comply with Guatemalan labeling standards, including language requirements and product information disclosure.
• Standards Compliance: Goods must meet Guatemalan technical standards and safety requirements applicable to the product category.
• Customs Valuation: Duties are assessed based on the customs value of goods, which typically includes the invoice price plus freight, insurance, and other charges.
• Documentation Inspection: Guatemalan customs authorities may inspect shipments and request additional documentation to verify compliance.

Trade Agreements

Guatemala is a signatory to the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), though this agreement primarily benefits U.S. exporters. Afghanistan is not a party to CAFTA-DR, so Afghan exports will be subject to Guatemala's standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rates under World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements.

For precise duty calculations specific to your products, it is recommended to consult with customs brokers or use the official Customs Info Database tariff look-up tool available through trade.gov. Additionally, contacting the Guatemalan Ministry of Economy's Administration of Foreign Commerce can provide current information on quota systems, special regulations, and any recent tariff modifications affecting your specific goods.