CUSTOMS DUTIES: AFGHANISTAN TO JAMAICA

Overview of Customs Duties from Afghanistan to Jamaica

When exporting goods from Afghanistan to Jamaica, exporters must navigate Jamaica's customs regulations and tariff structure. Jamaica, as a member state of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), applies a Common External Tariff (CET) to imports from countries outside the CARICOM single market. Afghanistan, not being a CARICOM member, falls under Jamaica's standard external tariff regime. The Jamaica Customs Agency administers these duties, which serve as a significant revenue source for the Jamaican government, accounting for approximately 30 percent of tax revenue.

Jamaica has committed to gradually reducing duty rates, though tariffs can reach as high as 180 percent when compounded. Understanding the specific tariff classification of your goods is essential, as rates vary significantly by product category and Harmonized System (HS) code.

General Duty Rates

Jamaica applies varying duty rates depending on the product classification. The following table provides guidance on common product categories:

Product Category	Duty Rate	Notes
Agriculture Products	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	Rates differ significantly based on specific product classification
Minerals, Lubricants and Related Materials	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	Subject to CET classification
Machinery and Transport Equipment	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	Industrial equipment may have specific classifications
Chemicals and Related Products	Varies by HS code - contact our experts	Chemical products subject to detailed HS coding
General Merchandise	Up to 180% (compounded)	Maximum rates apply; Jamaica committed to gradual reduction

Important: To determine the exact duty rate for your specific products, use the Jamaica Customs Agency's tariff look-up tool available through the Customs Info Database on trade.gov (free registration required).

Required Documentation

• Commercial Invoice - Detailed invoice showing product description, quantity, unit price, and total value
• Packing List - Itemized list of goods with weights and dimensions
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill - Proof of shipment and transportation
• Certificate of Origin - Document certifying the country of manufacture
• Import License - Where applicable for restricted or controlled items
• Product-Specific Certificates - Health certificates, safety certifications, or quality documentation as required
• Customs Declaration Form - Completed declaration form required by Jamaica Customs Agency
• Insurance Documentation - Proof of cargo insurance if applicable

Important Regulations

• Prohibited and Restricted Imports: Jamaica maintains lists of prohibited and restricted items. Verify that your goods are not on these lists before shipment.
• Labeling and Marking Requirements: Products must comply with Jamaica's labeling standards, including language requirements and content specifications.
• Standards Compliance: Goods must meet Jamaica's technical standards for trade, which may include safety, quality, and environmental specifications.
• Customs Valuation: Duties are assessed on the customs value of goods, which includes the invoice price plus freight, insurance, and other charges.
• HS Code Classification: Accurate Harmonized System (HS) code classification is critical, as this determines the applicable duty rate.
• Temporary Entry: Goods may be eligible for temporary entry under bond for specific purposes; consult with customs authorities for eligibility.

Trade Agreements

Jamaica is a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which means goods originating within CARICOM generally enter Jamaica duty-free under the CARICOM single market arrangement. However, Afghanistan is not a CARICOM member, so exports from Afghanistan do not benefit from this preferential treatment and are subject to Jamaica's Common External Tariff (CET).

For the most current information on specific duty rates, prohibited items, and regulatory requirements, contact the Jamaica Customs Agency directly or consult with a customs broker experienced in Afghanistan-Jamaica trade. Additionally, the U.S. State Department's Jamaica Country Commercial Guide provides valuable resources for understanding Jamaica's import regulations and market entry strategies.