CUSTOMS DUTIES: PORTUGAL TO SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE

Overview of Customs Duties from Portugal to São Tomé and Príncipe

Trade between Portugal and São Tomé and Príncipe is governed by the customs regulations of São Tomé and Príncipe, which implements a Common External Tariff (CET) system. As an exporter from Portugal, understanding these duty structures and import requirements is essential for successful trade operations. São Tomé and Príncipe applies a tiered tariff system based on product categories, with additional fees and surcharges that may apply depending on the nature of goods being imported.

General Duty Rates

The following table outlines the primary duty rates applied to imports into São Tomé and Príncipe under the Common External Tariff system:

Product Category	CET Rate	Examples
Category One - Basic Products	5%	Essential raw materials and basic commodities
Category Two - Raw Materials	10%	Unprocessed or minimally processed materials
Category Three - Intermediate Products	20%	Most food products, cosmetics, and semi-processed goods
Alcoholic Beverages (Beer)	20% + Surcharge (50-110%) + $0.28/liter	Beer and malt beverages
Alcoholic Beverages (Wine)	20% + Surcharge (50-110%) + $0.47/liter	Wine and fortified wines
Alcoholic Beverages (Spirits)	20% + Surcharge (50-110%) + $1.40/liter	Spirits and distilled beverages
Milk and Wheat	0%	Dairy products and wheat imports
Wood and Wood Products	0%	Timber and related products (exempted as of May 2022)

Required Documentation

When exporting goods from Portugal to São Tomé and Príncipe, the following documentation is typically required:

• Commercial Invoice - Detailed invoice with product descriptions, quantities, and values
• Packing List - Itemized list of goods with packaging details and weights
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill - Proof of shipment and transportation
• Certificate of Origin - Documentation confirming the Portuguese origin of goods
• Import License - Required documentation from the importer in São Tomé and Príncipe
• Customs Declaration Form - Completed declaration form for customs processing
• Phytosanitary Certificate - For agricultural and food products (may incur additional fees)
• Product Specifications and Technical Data Sheets - For certain product categories

Important Regulations

Exporters should be aware of the following key regulations and fees:

• Port Fees: Additional charges are assessed at the port of entry for handling and processing
• Customs Officer Expenses: Fees associated with customs clearance procedures
• Broker Fees: Costs for customs brokers facilitating the import process
• Phytosanitary Fees: Additional charges may apply for inspection of agricultural and food products by phytosanitary authorities
• Vehicle Registration: If importing vehicles, an additional registration fee is required
• Alcoholic Beverage Surcharges: Spirits, wine, and beer are subject to variable surcharges ranging from 50% to 110% in addition to the base tariff and per-liter tax
• Tax Exemptions: As of May 2022, wood imports are exempt from all taxes and tariffs to mitigate deforestation

Trade Agreements

São Tomé and Príncipe is a member of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and applies the Common External Tariff framework. Portuguese exporters should verify current preferential trade arrangements and bilateral agreements that may affect duty rates. It is recommended to consult with local customs authorities or trade representatives for the most current information regarding any preferential agreements or recent regulatory changes that may impact specific product categories.