CUSTOMS DUTIES: UNITED STATES TO SURINAME

Overview of Customs Duties from United States to Suriname

Suriname maintains a comprehensive tariff system designed to regulate imports and protect domestic industries. As a U.S. exporter, understanding the customs duties and import regulations is essential for successful trade operations. Suriname's tariff structure consists of nine distinct tiers ranging from 0 to 50 percent, with rates varying significantly based on product classification and country of origin. Imports from the United States face tariffs between 0 and 50 percent, depending on the product category and its level of processing.

General Duty Rates for U.S. Exports to Suriname

The following table outlines typical tariff rates applied to goods exported from the United States to Suriname:

Product Category	Tariff Rate (U.S. Exports)	Additional Fees
Raw Materials	5%	Statistical fee (0.5%) + Consent right fee (1.5% CIF) + Sales tax (10%)
Semi-Manufactured Articles	10%	Statistical fee (0.5%) + Consent right fee (1.5% CIF) + Sales tax (10%)
Finished Products	15-20%	Statistical fee (0.5%) + Consent right fee (1.5% CIF) + Sales tax (10%)
Alcoholic Beverages	40-50%	Additional tax on alcoholic beverages + Standard fees
Beer	40-50%	Additional tax + Standard fees
Tobacco and Cigarettes	40-50%	Additional tax on tobacco + Standard fees
Live Animals, Fish, Eggs, Honey	40-50%	Statistical fee (0.5%) + Consent right fee (1.5% CIF) + Sales tax (10%)
Vegetables, Fruit, Coffee, Cereals	40-50%	Statistical fee (0.5%) + Consent right fee (1.5% CIF) + Sales tax (10%)
Poultry	40%	Statistical fee (0.5%) + Consent right fee (1.5% CIF) + Sales tax (10%)
Precious or Semi-Precious Stones	40-50%	Statistical fee (0.5%) + Consent right fee (1.5% CIF) + Sales tax (10%)
Select Motor Vehicles	40-50%	Statistical fee (0.5%) + Consent right fee (1.5% CIF) + Sales tax (10%)

Additional Fees and Charges

Beyond the base tariff rate, importers must account for several mandatory fees applied to all goods entering Suriname:

• Statistical Fee: 0.5% of the C.I.F. value
• Consent Right Fee: 1.5% of the C.I.F. (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value
• Sales Tax: 10% applied to most imported goods
• Special Taxes: Additional taxes on alcoholic beverages and tobacco products

Required Documentation

Exporters must prepare comprehensive documentation to facilitate customs clearance in Suriname:

• Commercial Invoice with detailed product descriptions and values
• Packing List specifying contents and weights
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill for transportation proof
• Certificate of Origin verifying country of manufacture
• Harmonized System (HS) Code classification for each product
• Import License (when required for specific product categories)
• Health and Safety Certificates (for applicable products)
• Insurance Documentation

Important Regulations and Restrictions

• All goods must be properly classified according to Suriname's tariff schedule
• Labeling and marking requirements must comply with Surinamese standards
• Certain products may be subject to import prohibitions or restrictions
• Agricultural and food products require health certifications
• U.S. Export Controls must be observed for controlled items
• Temporary entry provisions may apply to specific goods

Trade Agreements

While Suriname does not currently maintain a preferential trade agreement with the United States comparable to CARICOM member benefits, U.S. exporters should note that Suriname applies different tariff rates based on country of origin. CARICOM member states receive preferential rates between 0 and 20 percent on most goods. For specific product categories and current trade agreement details, consult with the U.S. Commercial Service or Suriname's customs authority.