CUSTOMS DUTIES: COLOMBIA TO CHILE

Overview of Customs Duties from Colombia to Chile

When exporting goods from Colombia to Chile, it is essential to understand the customs duty structure and import regulations that apply. Chile maintains a relatively straightforward tariff system, though certain product categories are subject to special taxes and additional levies beyond standard import duties. As a non-FTA country with Chile, Colombian exporters should be aware that goods of Colombian origin do not benefit from preferential tariff treatment and are subject to Chile's standard tariff rates and applicable special taxes.

The Chilean customs authority applies duties based on the Harmonized System (HS) classification of goods, with varying rates depending on product category. Additionally, all imports into Chile are subject to a 19 percent Value Added Tax (IVA - Impuesto al Valor Agregado), which is applied to the landed cost of goods including customs duties.

General Duty Rates and Special Taxes

Product Category	Standard Duty Rate	Additional Special Tax	Notes
Most goods (non-FTA origin)	6%	None	Uniform tariff rate for products not originating from FTA countries
Luxury goods (jewelry, precious stones, furs, fine carpets, etc.)	6%	15%	Includes gold, platinum items, natural/synthetic precious stones, and fine furs
Mineral waters and artificial drinks/syrups	6%	10% (or 18% if sugar content exceeds 15g per 240ml)	Higher rate applies to high-sugar beverages
Wine, beer, and other alcoholic beverages	6%	20.5% (beer, wine, cider) or 31.5% (spirits, liquor, pisco, whiskey)	Rates vary by beverage type; applied at retail level
Tobacco products and cigarettes	6%	30%-59.7% depending on product type	Cigars: 52.6%; elaborated tobacco: 59.7%; cigarettes: 30% plus additional percentage
Pyrotechnic articles (fireworks, petards)	6%	50%	Excludes items for industrial, mining, or agricultural use
All imported goods	6%	19% VAT (IVA)	Value Added Tax applied to all imports on top of duties and special taxes

Required Documentation for Customs Clearance

• Commercial Invoice (original and copies) detailing product description, quantity, unit price, and total value
• Packing List specifying contents, weight, and dimensions of each package
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill as proof of shipment
• Certificate of Origin (if applicable, to claim preferential tariff treatment)
• Import Declaration (Declaración de Importación) completed by the importer or customs broker
• Proof of payment of duties and taxes (if required before release)
• Product-specific certificates or licenses (sanitary, phytosanitary, quality certifications as applicable)
• Insurance documents if goods are insured

Important Regulations and Compliance Requirements

Colombian exporters must ensure that all goods are properly classified according to the Harmonized System (HS) code to determine applicable duties. The Chilean customs authority requires accurate product descriptions and valuations; misclassification or undervaluation can result in penalties and delays.

Special taxes on luxury goods, beverages, and tobacco products are significant cost factors that should be incorporated into pricing strategies. These additional levies substantially increase the final cost of goods in the Chilean market.

All imports must comply with Chilean labeling and marking requirements, including information in Spanish. Certain products may require additional permits, certifications, or inspections depending on their nature (food products, chemicals, electrical goods, etc.).

Goods may be subject to physical inspection by Chilean customs authorities. The use of a licensed customs broker (agente de aduanas) is recommended to facilitate the clearance process and ensure compliance with all requirements.

Trade Agreements and Preferential Tariffs

Colombia and Chile are both members of the Pacific Alliance trade agreement, which provides preferential tariff treatment between member countries. Under the Pacific Alliance framework, tariffs on most goods originating from Colombia should be eliminated or significantly reduced. However, the specific benefits depend on the product category and rules of origin requirements.

Colombian exporters should verify whether their products qualify for Pacific Alliance preferential treatment by obtaining a valid Certificate of Origin and ensuring compliance with rules of origin requirements. This can result in substantial duty savings compared to the standard 6 percent tariff rate applied to non-FTA goods.

For accurate tariff information specific to your products, consult with a customs broker or contact the Chilean National Customs Service (Servicio Nacional de Aduanas) directly.