Barbados Import Duties & Taxes Explained

Import duty in Barbados typically ranges from 0% to 20% for most consumer goods, with higher rates for specific categories like jewelry (60%), watches (50%), and clothing (up to 115%). Your shipment may also incur a 17.5% VAT and 1% environmental levy on the total landed cost, though shipments under approximately $30 USD (BBD $60) may enter duty-free.

Import taxes in Barbados include a 17.5% VAT, customs duties from 0% to 20% for most goods (higher for items like clothing up to 115%), and a 1% Environmental Levy. Small shipments under $30 USD (BBD $60) may enter duty-free, but taxes are calculated on your total CIF value including shipping costs.

The VAT-free threshold in Barbados is approximately $30 USD (BBD $60) for small personal shipments. When your shipment exceeds this value, you'll pay 17.5% Import VAT calculated on the total landed cost including the item value, shipping, and any duties.

The environmental levy is generally 1% of your shipment's CIF value for most goods. Some specific items like televisions or refrigerators may have fixed levy amounts instead of the percentage rate.

Yes, carriers typically charge a disbursement fee for advancing taxes and duties on your behalf. This is often 2% of the tax amount or a flat minimum fee between BBD $30 and $50.

Barbados uses the CIF method, meaning taxes are calculated on the total landed cost including the item price, insurance, and freight shipping costs from your shipment.

Yes, it is a criminal offense to import or wear items made of camouflage material in Barbados. You should also be aware that certain wireless devices may require specific permits.

The Barbados Customs & Excise Department (BCED) collects all applicable import duties, VAT, and levies. Your carrier will collect these fees from you upon delivery or before release.

You can estimate costs by applying the 17.5% VAT, duty rates, and environmental levy to your CIF value, but final charges are determined by Barbados Customs and the carrier.

Your shipment to Barbados is duty and tax free on the first approximately $30 USD (BBD $60) of value for small personal shipments. Once your package exceeds this threshold, you'll pay Import VAT at 17.5% plus Customs Duty (typically 0-20% for most consumer goods) on the full CIF value.