Import Regulations - Bolivia

Two-way merchandise trade between Australia and Bolivia is small. Australia's exports to Bolivia were A$3.5 million in 2008, including telecom equipment, spacecraft, aircraft, and parts, and civil engineering equipment.

Trade Barriers
Bolivian import charges, including domestic taxes (the majority of which is creditable) and fees, range from 30% to 45%, making the effective cost of imports considerably higher than the stated 0% to 10% tariff rates.

The Bolivian Customs Authority has been reformed and modernized over the last couple of years, with help from international donors. As a result, Customs processes are almost completely automated.

The Bolivian authorities has no special standards required for imports. The National Certification and Standardization Organization is in charge of developing Bolivian goods standards.

Labeling
Labeling requirements for food goods were established in 2002. Although products usually retain their original labels, complementary labeling, showing the importer or distributor's taxpayer identification number and translation of components into the Spanish language, is now required.

The following documentation is required for imported goods: document description form (Form 135); invoice; bill of lading (if applicable); proof of insurance; certificate of inspection issued prior to shipment (if applicable); port expenditures (if applicable); transportation invoice; packing list; certificate of origin (if applicable); certificates (if applicable).