Palau
PW · PLW
Pazifischer Inselstaat / importabhaengiger Nischenmarkt
Capital: Ngerulmud
Overview
Palau (ISO code PW) is an island state in the western Pacific in the Micronesia region and a presidential republic. The climate is tropical-maritime with high humidity and a rainy season from July to October. The economy is dominated by tourism, fisheries and services, and the country is heavily import-dependent. Main imports are food, fuel, consumer goods and construction materials, while exports focus on fish products. Foreign-trade logistics run through the Malakal Commercial Port near Koror and the Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), connected by regional lines to Guam and Asia. Since 1 January 2023 Palau levies a Palau Goods and Services Tax (PGST) of 10 percent, plus a 3 percent import tax on the FOB value of most commercial goods. Customs clearance is handled by the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection via ASYCUDA World. The currency is the US dollar. Palau has maintained a Compact of Free Association with the United States since 1994.
Mentioned countries
Customs & Import/Export
Customs authority
Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP), FinanzministeriumImport system
Elektronische Abfertigung über ASYCUDA World (eingeführt 2024) durch die BCBP unter dem Finanzministerium.
Export system
Ausfuhrabwicklung über die BCBP via ASYCUDA World; geringe Exportmengen, vor allem Fisch und Re-Exporte.
Import VAT
- PGST 10 Prozent auf den Importwert seit 1.1.2023
- zusätzlich Einfuhrsteuer von 3 Prozent auf den FOB-Wert der meisten Handelswaren.
Import documents
- Handelsrechnung
- Packliste
- Konnossement / Luftfrachtbrief
- Einfuhrzollanmeldung (ASYCUDA World)
- ggf. Biosicherheits-/Quarantänegenehmigung
Export documents
- Handelsrechnung
- Packliste
- Konnossement / Luftfrachtbrief
- Ausfuhranmeldung (ASYCUDA World)
- ggf. Fischerei-/Artenschutzgenehmigung
Origin proofs / FTA
Palau hat keine Freihandelsabkommen; präferenzielle Ursprungsnachweise sind nicht erforderlich. Handel läuft zu Normalzollsätzen.
Restricted & prohibited goods
Beschränkungen u.a. für Waffen, Munition und Betäubungsmittel sowie biosicherheitsrelevante Pflanzen und Tiere (Quarantäne); Ausfuhrbeschränkungen für geschützte Meeresarten.
Export controls & sanctions
Kein eigenes umfassendes Exportkontrollregime; als UN-Mitglied Umsetzung der UN-Sicherheitsrats-Sanktionen. Enge Anbindung an die USA über den COFA.
Without warranty — always verify with freight forwarder/customs agent and official authorities.
Customs / Import / Export (Rest) — General process
Quick operational overview for international shipments. Depending on the destination (Oceania, Middle East, or other regions), steps, pre-filings and documents may differ.
Documents (typical)
- Commercial invoice (description, value, Incoterms)
- Packing list (weights, dimensions, packages)
- HS code / tariff classification
- Proof of origin / preference docs (where relevant)
- Transport documents (AWB / Bill of Lading) depending on mode
Process (simplified)
- Prepare export (docs, HS code, origin)
- Import clearance in destination country (declaration, possible checks)
- Release and delivery; duties/taxes according to classification and value
Important: Requirements depend on goods, origin, Incoterms, value, and consignee. When in doubt, confirm with your broker/forwarder and official sources.
Official links
Note: regional/general sources. Country-specific authority links will be added iteratively.
Trade
Freight Infrastructure & Transport Network
Cargo airports
- Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), Airai
Seaports / access ports
- Malakal Commercial Port (Koror)
Road corridors & border crossings
- Koror-Babeldaob-Brücke
- Compact Road (Babeldaob)
Top trade lanes
- Palau-Guam
- Palau-Japan
- Palau-Philippinen
- Palau-China
- Palau-USA
Risk & Operational Notes
Risk notes
Isolierte Lage und geringe Frequenz erhöhen Vorlaufzeiten und Frachtkosten; ein einzelner Haupthafen und eine kurze Landebahn begrenzen die Kapazität für Grossladungen.
Seasonal & weather risks
Regenzeit Juli bis Oktober mit hoher Luftfeuchtigkeit; ausserhalb des Haupt-Taifungürtels, gelegentlich aber tropische Stürme und Starkregen.
Current logistics notes
Stark importabhängig; Seefracht über Malakal/Koror via Guam und Asien (u.a. Kyowa, Eurasia Pacific Lines), Luftfracht über den Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR).
As of: 2026-06-27
Operational notes – no claim to completeness. Verify with your freight forwarder and official sources.
Airports in this country
Latest News
Sources & Data Confidence
Official sources
- bcbp.pw
- palaugov.pw
- wto.org
Source references without warranty. For legal/tax decisions consult official authorities.
FAQ
What import taxes apply in Palau?
Since 1 January 2023 a Palau Goods and Services Tax (PGST) of 10 percent applies to the import value. Most commercial goods also carry a 3 percent import tax on the FOB value; tobacco and alcohol are subject to higher excise taxes.
Who is the customs authority in Palau?
The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) under the Ministry of Finance is responsible. Clearance is handled electronically via the ASYCUDA World system introduced in 2024.
Which ports and airports does Palau use for cargo?
The main seaport is the Malakal Commercial Port near Koror, served by regional lines (including Kyowa and Eurasia Pacific Lines) via Guam and Asia. Air cargo runs through the Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) in Airai.
Which currency is used in Palau?
Palau uses the US dollar (USD) as its official currency, which removes exchange-rate risk in trade with the US area.
Are there free trade agreements with Palau?
Palau has no classic free trade agreements, and preferential proofs of origin are not required. However, it has maintained a Compact of Free Association (COFA) with the United States since 1994.
Which goods are subject to import restrictions?
Restricted items include weapons, ammunition and narcotics as well as biosecurity-relevant plants and animals subject to quarantine. Export restrictions apply to protected marine species.
Which trade partners are important for Palau?
Which logistics terms are especially relevant for Palau?
For international shipments, these terms are a good quick start:
Next steps
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