Bolivia Import Duties & Taxes Explained

For your shipment to Bolivia, import fees are calculated by Aduna Nacional as Import VAT (IVA) at a 14.94% effective rate plus Customs Duty (G.A.) at 5–40% depending on item type, both applied to your CIF value (goods cost + shipping + insurance). Even with simplified clearance for shipments under $1,000 USD, you will still pay these taxes, so expect carrier processing fees of approximately $25–$50 USD on top of the calculated duties.

Bolivia has effectively no VAT threshold—Import VAT (IVA) applies to almost all shipments regardless of value. While a simplified regime exists for shipments under $1,000 USD, it does not exempt you from paying VAT and customs duty on arrival.

Bolivia does not have a duty-free threshold for most shipments, so you will pay import duty on your shipment regardless of value. Duty rates typically range from 5% to 20% for common items like electronics, with luxury goods reaching 30-40%. In addition to customs duty, you'll also pay 14.94% Import VAT (IVA) calculated on the combined value of your goods, shipping, and duty.

Yes, there is a customs clearance fee for your shipment to Bolivia. Couriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS typically charge a flat fee of approximately $25–$50 USD for processing the customs entry on your behalf.

The standard Import VAT (IVA) rate is effectively 14.94% on your shipment. This is calculated as a nominal 13% applied to the total value of your goods plus shipping and insurance, which results in this effective rate being charged on the combined CIF value and Customs Duty.

Customs Duty rates typically range from 5% to 20% for common consumer goods like electronics, while luxury items or textiles can reach 30% to 40%. The duty is calculated as a percentage of your CIF value, which includes the cost of the items plus insurance and freight.

Taxes are calculated on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) plus the Customs Duty amount. The duty is added in first, and VAT is then applied to that combined figure, meaning the two charges compound rather than being calculated separately.

Yes, couriers like DHL or FedEx typically charge a clearance or handling fee, often between $25 and $50 USD, to process your customs entry. Additionally, if your package is held for inspection, daily storage fees may apply at the warehouse.

Yes, certain items like cosmetics, perfumes, and sugary drinks may be subject to an additional Specific Consumption Tax (ICE) on top of standard duties and VAT. This excise tax applies to luxury or non-essential goods classified under specific categories.

Import charges are collected by the Aduana Nacional (National Customs) and the Servicio de Impuestos Nacionales (SIN). The courier handling your delivery will usually collect these fees from you directly before releasing the package.