Colombia

The standard IVA rate is 19 percent, levied on the CIF value plus duty. A reduced rate of 5 percent or an exemption applies to certain goods.

The DIAN (Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales) is responsible. Clearance is electronic via the SYGA system and the single trade window VUCE.

Yes. The free trade agreement between the EFTA States and Colombia has been in force for Switzerland and Liechtenstein since 1 July 2011 and lowers tariffs with a valid proof of origin.

Buenaventura on the Pacific handles most of the Asia trade; Cartagena, Barranquilla and Santa Marta on the Caribbean mainly serve North America and Europe.

Bogotá El Dorado (BOG) is one of Latin America's largest cargo airports and a hub, among other things, for cut-flower exports in cold chains.

Weapons, ammunition and explosives are reserved for the state company Indumil. Imports of used vehicles and tyres are banned, as are goods of Iranian origin.

Typically a commercial invoice, transport document (B/L or AWB), packing list, proof of origin and the import registration or licence via VUCE; depending on the goods, additional INVIMA or ICA permits.

This page links to important partner countries (based on import/export partners) for quick context.

• US
• CN
• BR
• MX
• DE
• FR

For international shipments, these terms are a good quick start:

• Incoterms
• AWB (Air Waybill)
• Bill of Lading (B/L)
• HS Code
• UN/LOCODE