Costa Rica Tariff 2026: Stay Compliant, Reduce Costs
A comprehensive guide to understanding Costa Rica Tariff rates, import duties, and classification rules to help you trade smarter and stay compliant.
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Costa RicaTypes of Customs Duties
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Import Tariff (DAI)
Value Added Tax (IVA)
Selective Consumption Tax (ISC)
Law 6946 Surcharge
Specific Customs Duty
Costa Rica Customs Duties Overview
Costa Rica utilizes the Central American Tariff System (SAC), where duties are primarily calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of imports. While the country benefits from various free trade agreements, including CAFTA-DR, importers outside these agreements are subject to the standard external tariff, the 1% Law 6946 surcharge, and a 13% Value Added Tax. The structure is designed to protect sensitive local agricultural sectors while facilitating the flow of raw materials and capital goods.
| Duty/Tax Type | Standard Rate or Rate Range |
|---|---|
| Ad Valorem (DAI - Import Tariff) | 0% - 15% (Up to 150% for sensitive agriculture) |
| Specific / Compound Duties | Rare; applied to select agricultural products |
| Excise (Selective Consumption Tax) | 0% - 100% (Applies to vehicles, alcohol, luxury goods) |
| Law 6946 Surcharge | 1% (Applied to CIF value) |
| Value Added Tax (IVA) | 13% (Standard Rate) |
| Antidumping Duties | Case-specific based on origin and commodity |
| Section 301 | Not Applicable (US Regulation) |
| MPF / HMF | Not Applicable (US Regulations; local port fees apply) |
Key Duty Categories
- Import Tariff (DAI): This is the primary ad valorem duty applied to the CIF value of goods, with rates determined by the SAC classification.
- Selective Consumption Tax (ISC): An excise tax levied on goods considered non-essential or luxury items, such as new vehicles and alcoholic beverages.
- Law 6946 Surcharge: A mandatory 1% tax applied to the customs value of most imported goods, regardless of origin, with very few exemptions.
- Antidumping Measures: Costa Rica applies temporary additional duties on specific products found to be imported at prices below fair market value to protect domestic industry.
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