Written on 08 September 2023.

ACOLCEX CUSTOMS BROKER, we assist you with the preparation of Import Registrations or Licenses.

The import registration (or import license, as the case may be) must be processed through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism and is an exclusive requirement for the importation of products that are freely importable but require permission or authorization from entities that regulate the marketing of certain products in Colombia, such as:

ICA (Institute for Agricultural and Livestock Protection)
INVIMA (National Institute of Food and Drug Surveillance)
Ministry of Mines and Energy
Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development
Ministry of Transportation
Ministry of Agriculture
Superintendency of Private Security Oversight
Superintendency of Industry and Commerce

To process the registrations or licenses, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism (MINCIT) has made available the Single Foreign Trade Window (VUCE) platform.

Everything you need to know about Import Registration and Import License

These are supporting documents for the Import Declaration, for imports subject to the regime of free importation or the regime of prior licensing, in accordance with the provisions of articles 14 and 20 of Decree 0925 of 2013, respectively. Importing goods is a vital activity that requires a series of procedures and documents to ensure its legality and regulatory compliance. Two of these fundamental documents are Import Registration or Import License. In this article, we will explore in detail what they are, why they are important, and how they affect companies engaged in foreign trade, like ours, specialized in customs brokerage.

What is Import Registration?

Import Registration is a document issued by the customs authorities of a country that allows a company to import certain products. This registration is essential for carrying out import operations legally and without setbacks. In many countries, the import registration process involves providing detailed information about the products to be imported, including their nature, quantity, value, and origin.

Why is Import Registration important?

Import Registration is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures compliance with the customs and trade regulations of the importing country. This helps prevent legal issues and sanctions that could arise from unauthorized or fraudulent imports.

Additionally, Import Registration facilitates the tracking and control of imports by authorities, contributing to the safety and transparency of international trade. Furthermore, this registration can serve as a basis for the application of tariffs, taxes, and other fees associated with imports.

What is the Import License?

The Import License is another essential document in the importation process. Unlike the Import Registration, which generally authorizes a company to import certain products, the Import License grants specific permission to import a particular product in specific quantities during a specific period of time.

Importance of the Import License The Import License is important because it controls and regulates the flow of imported goods into a country. It allows authorities to have greater control over the products entering the country, which can be crucial for protecting national economy, food security, public health, and the environment.

Additionally, the Import License can be used as a tool to regulate competition in the domestic market, as it can establish certain requirements or restrictions for the importation of certain products, thus helping to protect local producers and promote national economic development.

Whenever an application for registration or license is submitted to the VUCE, the goods must be described clearly, precisely as follows:

Commercial name.
technical or scientific name.
Brand.
Model.
Size.
Construction materials.
Uses.
Technical characteristics or those applicable to its nature.
Year of manufacture.

Specify if it is:

New merchandise.
Balances
Products under special market conditions with their respective characteristic.
Waste
Residues
Waste or scrap.

They have established the regime of prior licensing for the tariff subheadings indicated in annex 1 of Decree 0925 of 2013, which corresponds to the following goods:

LIST OF SUBHEADINGS FOR WHICH THE PRIOR LICENSING REGIME HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED 01

LIST OF SUBHEADINGS FOR WHICH THE PRIOR LICENSING REGIME HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED 02

LIST OF SUBHEADINGS FOR WHICH THE PRIOR LICENSING REGIME HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED 03

LIST OF SUBHEADINGS FOR WHICH THE PRIOR LICENSING REGIME HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED 04

LIST OF SUBHEADINGS FOR WHICH THE PRIOR LICENSING REGIME HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED 05

LIST OF SUBHEADINGS FOR WHICH THE PRIOR LICENSING REGIME HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED 06

How do Import Registration and Import License Affect Customs Brokerage Companies?

For customs brokerage companies like ours, Import Registration or Import License are key elements in providing professional services to our clients. It is our responsibility to advise and assist companies in obtaining these documents, ensuring they comply with all legal and administrative requirements.

Our team of international trade and customs experts works closely with our clients to ensure their imports are carried out efficiently and without any hitches. From preparing and submitting the necessary documentation to monitoring and resolving any issues that may arise, we are committed to providing quality service that ensures the success of our clients' import operations.

Conclusion

In summary, Import Registration and Import License are fundamental documents in the importation process that significantly impact companies engaged in foreign trade. For customs brokerage companies, it is crucial to understand the importance of these documents and provide professional services that facilitate their acquisition and compliance. Ultimately, proper handling of these documents contributes to the success and legality of import operations in the realm of international trade.

Registrations and Licences