Includes information on average tariff rates and types that U.S. firms should be aware of when exporting to the market.
Last Published: 9/27/2016

  • Tariff Rates: The Bahamian Government raises 60 percent of its total revenue from import tariffs.  The basic ad valorem tariff for imported goods is 35% but, given the growing list of zero-rated items, the average tariff rate is 19%.  On January 1, 2015 the Government introduced value added tax at a rate of 7.5%.

 

  • Import Licenses:  Permits are required for imports of certain items.  Applications for permits should be made to the ministry indicated, as follows:

    • Poultry, meats, vegetables, fruits, live plants and animals:  Ministry of Agriculture

    • Medicines:   Ministry of Health

    • Slot machines, trailers and caravans for living (temporary use only): Ministry of Finance

    • Firearms, fireworks, and underwater guns other than Hawaiian slings: Commissioner of Police

    • Precursor and essential chemicals:  Customs Department

 
Copies of current import regulations may be obtained from:
Government Publications Office
East Bay Street
P.O. Box N-7147
Nassau, Bahamas
Tel:  242-322-2410

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.


More Information

Bahamas Tariff Rate Quotas Import Duties