Reduce Rates Custom Duty for Raw Materials - The Bahamas Customs Department

The Government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas offers exemption waivers for duties on the Raw materials to encourage industrial development and promote investment.

Raw materials that are not assigned for duty free exemption under the encouragement act are eligible for consideration at a reduced rate.  Applicants are encouraged to apply for the relevant exemption prior to the item entering The Bahamas.

All Locally-based Individuals in the Manufacturing Industry are eligible for this exemption.

1. Submit a completed application form along with the originals and copies of supporting documents to the Revenue offices.  Family islands applicants can submit the application to the local administrator and collect approvals/rejection from the local administration office.
2. The application form must itemize products to be imported which should estimate the total quantities for a twelve (12) month period.
3. A representative from the Ministry of Finance, Revenue Unit and Industry will review the application and, if necessary, request omitted information and documentation.
4. For new applicants, a representative from the Ministry of Finance will contact the applicant via phone to set up an appointment to visit your establishment to conduct a site visit or request a sample of the end product to be brought in.
5. If necessary the site visit is conducted. Applicant must accompany officer to conduct a walk-through of the product.
6. Once all requirements are met the Ministry will contact the applicant via phone to inform them that the document is ready for collection.
7. The Ministry will hold the document for one day after which the approval/rejection is mailed out to applicant.
8. Once approved the applicant may then take the document and present it to customs each time they need to import material and supplies.  Note: That accurate estimates are important as once the identified limit is reached there would be no additional exemptions for that year.
9. Note: Entities not eligible to receive an exemption from custom duty will be notified when they collect their documents at the Office or in the mail. Applicant can contact the Revenue office to inquire as to the reason for their ineligibility.
10. If rejected the applicant is required to pay the normal duties stipulated by the customs department.

Application for raw material/supplies to be imported at a reduced rate of duty.

• Valid Business Licence;

• Confirmation Letter from National Insurance indicating that contributions are current;

• Invoice of items: The invoice of the printer which should show the detail information regarding the imported item and the total value inclusive of shipping.

Within two weeks from the date submission of a completed application for exemption from customs duty, including all required supporting documentation, a representative from the Revenue Office will contact the applicant via phone.

All exemptions are valid for a period of one (1) year from the date of approval.

There are no relative fees for this process.

Ministry of Finance
Secretary for Revenue
Revenue Unit
3rd FL. Cecil Wallace-Whitfield Centre
Cable Beach
P. O. Box N 3017
Nassau, Bahamas
E-mail: mofgeneral@bahamas.gov.bs
Opening Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, except public holidays

Local Administrator Offices