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The "Duty Free" explained here. Check back often it changes almost weekly!
March 31st, 2010
Here are the present rules as we are told by the Department of Zolitur, Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras:
1. If any item is under $1000.00 USD then you can clear it yourself by paying duty (percentage varies but most times is 15%) and taxes (12%) directly to the Customs Officer at the shipping Company.
2. If the items amount to over $1000.00 USD and is also on the Zolitur certificate holders import list then the following is accomplished:
A. A constancia issued by the certificate holders attorney certifying that the items are on the import list is required. Fee (500 Lempiras or approximately $26.46 USD and two to three days).
B. The Department of Zolitur has to approve this and certify it (two to three days and 200 Lempiras or approximately $10.58 USD).
C. The certificate holder has to retain the services of his Customs Broker to clear the shipment with the Customs Agent at the shipping facility for any items with a value including the shipping fee of over $1000.00. (we presently pay $150.00 for this service and it takes about two days).
D. If it is deemed a vehicle or boat that requires registration prior approval by the Department of Finances in Tegucigalpa has to be obtained PRIOR to shipment leaving Country of origin.
E. All items purchased locally (Honduras) can be tax free but purchaser must have company purchase forms approved by the Dept. of Finance and appear in person for this to apply.
NOTE: All shipments are required to have an original invoice showing value must be enclosed or attached to shipment. There are NO exceptions to this rule or Customs will impart a value of their own or deny clearing of shipment entirely.
No it isn't easy to work within these rules but we do manage. If the items are rather expensive and or large it can save some up to 50% duty and tax but will take about a week to accomplish. Presently Zolitur has extended all certificate holders license until the end of July so far until at which time a renewal "fee" is finalized for continuing certificate holders.