G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
13 March  2020 
(20-2073) Page: 1/57 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original:  Spanish  
 
  
REPLIES TO THE QUEST IONNAIRE ON IMPORT L ICENSING PROCEDURES1 
NOTIFICATION UNDER A RTICLE 7.3 OF THE AG REEMENT ON IMPORT LI CENSING PROCEDURES 
(2019)  
CUBA 
The following communication, dated 5 March 2020, is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation of Cuba.  
 
_______________  
 
 
Index  
 
1  MINISTRY OF SCIENCE,  TECHNOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT (CITMA)  ...................  2 
1.1  Office for Environmental Regulation and Safety (ORSA)  ................................ ....................  2 
1.1.1   Directorate of Environmental Control  (DCA)  ................................ ................................ . 2 
 Biological diversity  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 2 
 Biological safety ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 4 
 Chemical safety ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 7 
1.1.1.3.1   Ozone depleting substances  ................................ ................................ .................  7 
1.1.1.3.2   Chemical substances  ................................ ................................ ...........................  9 
1.1.2   Directorate of  Nuclear  Safety  (DSN)  ................................ ................................ ..........  12 
1.2  National Bureau of Standards  (ONN)  ................................ ................................ ............  15 
2  MINIST RY OF AGRICULTUR E (MINAG)  ................................ ................................ ...... 17 
2.1  Directorate  of Plant Health  (DSV)  ................................ ................................ ................  17 
2.2  Departament of Soils and Fertilizers  (DSF)  ................................ ................................ ... 18 
2.3  Directorate  of Animal  Health  (DSA)  ................................ ................................ ..............  20 
3  MINISTR Y OF THE ARMED FORCE S ................................ ................................ ............  22 
3.1  National Office of Hydrogra phy and Geodes y (ONHG)  ................................ .....................  22 
4  MINISTR Y OF THE  INTERIOR (MININT)  ................................ ................................ .... 24 
4.1  Protec tion Directorate  ................................ ................................ ................................  24 
4.2  FIRE PROTECTION AGENCY ................................ ................................ .........................  25 
5  MINISTR Y OF PUBLIC  HEALTH  (MINSAP)  ................................ ................................ .. 29 
 
1 See G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  5.1  National Directorate of Medicines and Medical Technologies, Pharmaceutical Services 
Department, Control Unit for Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Other Similar  
Substances (DNMTM)  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 29 
5.2  National Institute of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Microbiology  (INHEM) .............................  33 
5.3  Centre for State Control of Medicines and Medical Equipment and Devices  (CECMED)  ........  34 
5.3.1   Control of imports of medicines for human use, medical equipment and devices . ............  34 
5.3.2   Control of cross -border movement of samples of biological material  ..............................  36 
5.3.3   Import of raw materials, medicines, diagnostic devices and cosmetics of animal origin  .... 37 
6  MINISTRY OF LABOUR A ND SOCIAL SECURITY (MTSS)  ................................ .............  39 
6.1  Centre for the Certification of Personal Protective Items and Equipment  (CCEPP)  ...............  39 
7  NATIONAL INSTITUTE O F HYDRAULIC RESOURCE S (INRH)  ................................ ...... 42 
7.1  National Hydraulic Works Directorate  ................................ ................................ ...........  42 
8  MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY  (MINDUS)  ................................ ................................ ..........  43 
8.1  National Lift Group  (GNA)  ................................ ................................ ...........................  43 
9  MINISTRY OF ENERGY A ND MINING  (MINEM)  ................................ ..........................  46 
9.1  National Office for the Control of the Rational Use o f Electricity  (ONURE)  ..........................  46 
10  MINISTRY OF COMMUNIC ATIONS  (MINCOM)  ................................ ..........................  47 
10.1  Technical Budgeted Entity for the Control of the Radio Frequency Spectrum  (UPTCER)  ..... 47 
11  MINISTRY OF CONSTRUC TION  ................................ ................................ ................  49 
11.1  Centre for the Development of Construction Standards and Construction Costs  (CDNCC)  .. 49 
12  MINISTRY OF TRANSPOR T ................................ ................................ ......................  51 
12.1  Cuban Ship Registry  (RCB)  ................................ ................................ .......................  51 
13  MINISTR Y OF CULTUR E ................................ ................................ ...........................  53 
13.1  National Registry of Cultural Property  (RNBC)  ................................ .............................  53 
14  CENTRAL BANK OF CUBA  ................................ ................................ .........................  55 
14.1  Secretar iat of the BCC ................................ ................................ ..............................  55 
 
1  MINISTRY OF SCIENCE,  TECHNOLOGY AND THE E NVIRONMENT (CITMA)  
1.1  Office for Environmental Regulation and Safety (ORSA)  
1.1.1   Directorate of Environmental Control (DCA)  
1.1.1.1   Biological diversity  
Outline of systems  
1. Export and import permits for all species listed in the Appendices to Ministry of Science, 
Technology and the Environment ( CITMA ) Resolution No. 160/2011 "Regulations for the control and 
protection of species of special significance for biological diver sity in the country", as well as species 
included in the three Appendices to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of 
Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). CITMA Resolution No. 111/1996 "Regulations on Biodiversity" governs 
the conservation o f national biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair 
and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Non -automatic licensing; to administer the import restri ctions applied in accordance with current 
legislation. It applies to all plant and animal species, and parts and derivatives thereof, except for 
species considered exotic or transgenic. Also excluded from the scope of these provisions are the 
biological re sources evoked by the agricultural, livestock and fish production of the Ministry of 
Agriculture, the Ministry of the Food Industry, the State sugar enterprise AZCUBA, and other state, 
cooperative and private producers, which are duly authorized by the com petent authority, destined 
for human and animal consumption, and traditionally used in the country for these purposes.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. There are no restrictions on the value or quantity of imports.  
 
5. The CITMA was established in April 1994 pursuant to Decree -Law No. 147 of the Republic of Cuba. 
By means of Resolution No. 16 of 1999, the CITMA appointed the Office for Environmental Regulation 
and Safety (ORSA) to establish, in coordination with the com petent bodies, checks aimed at ensuring 
effective compliance with the measures needed to preserve and ensure the sustainable use of the 
country's natural resources. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not 
leave the design ation of products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not 
possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out impo rt operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 
(b) Extension is possible; requests must be addressed to ORSA . 
 
(c) Not applicable.  
 
(d) ORSA  is the only institution in the country authorized to review and assess application s (with 
the assistance of experts from legally appointed competent scientific bodies).  
 
8. Applications for permits may be refused if the information therein is not approved. The applicant 
must be notified of this decision in writing.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importers must be registered in the National Register for Exporters and Importers of the Chamber 
of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Permit requests must be set forth in a document addressed to ORSA  and an application form 
must be completed with the required information.  
 
11. Upon importation, the relevant ORSA licence is required.  
 
12. Fees are payable in accordance with current legisl ation.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. An import permit is valid for six calendar months. This permit may be extended before its expiry 
date through a request made to ORSA . G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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15. There are no penalties, since no legal instrument contains any provisions to that effect. Permits 
are subject onl y to expiry.  
 
16. Permits are not transferable.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No other procedures are required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
1.1.1.2   Biological safety  
Outline of systems  
1. Licence s are granted for the use, testing, production, release, importation and exportation of, and 
research into, biological agents and their products, and organisms and parts thereof containing 
genetic information, in the national territory, and at the various stages of the construc tion of facilities 
posing a biological risk. This procedure is in conformity with the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to 
the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, 
Production and Stockpiling of Biologic al and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Non -automatic licensing; to administer the import restrictions applied in accordance with current 
legislation. Biological safety authorization is a form of environmental l icence, through which the 
CITMA, after having carried out a risk assessment, authorizes a natural or legal person to conduct 
certain activities in accordance with a number of conditions and requirements. Authorization can be 
granted in the form of a licenc e, permit, notification or report.  
 
Licences are the form of biological safety authorization used for activities posing the highest level of 
risk, which include the importation of biological agents and their products, and organisms and parts 
thereof conta ining genetic information. For the importation of parts of biological agents containing 
genetic information, which is a lower risk activity, a biological safety notification is required.  
For these purposes, biological agents are defined as viable micro -organisms and their products, 
priors and other organisms which cause or may cause disease in humans, animals and plants; 
organisms are defined as any biological entity that is genetically modified or exotic to the country, 
capable of reproduction or of trans ferring genetic material.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. The system does not provide for a limit to the quantity or value of imports; this depends instead 
on the risk analysis carried out in each case.  
 
5. The legal instruments under which the biological safety authorization system is maintained are 
the following:  
 
-  Decree -Law No.  190 on biological safety. Section  1, Article  4(c) establishes the responsibilities 
of the CITMA, which include granting, suspending and w ithdrawing licences for activities 
relating to the use, testing, production, release, importation and exportation of, and research 
into, biological agents and their products, and organisms and parts thereof containing genetic 
information.  
-  Resolution No.  180/2007. "Regulations for the granting of Biological Safety Authorization". 
Chapter  1, Article  6(e) provides that prior biological safety authorization must be obtained in 
order to import and export biological agents and their products, and organisms and  parts 
thereof containing genetic information.  
-  Resolution No. 2/2004. "Regulations governing the Accounting and Control of Biological 
Materials, Equipment and Technology". Chapter IV, Article 26 establishes the safeguards 
report as an essential requirem ent for activities relating to the transfer of biological agents, 
organisms, equipment and technology.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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The legislation specifies which organisms are subject to control, i.e. biological agents that affect 
humans, animals and plants; genetically modified or ganisms; exotic species; and parts of any of 
these containing genetic information. These products constitute the converge of biological safety 
regulation and the scope of risk control.  
 
The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does  not leave the designation of 
products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government 
to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the co mmercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 
The application assessment process can vary from 30 (notification) to 90 (licences other than 
for the importation of gene tically modified organisms intended for release into the  
environment) or 270 (importation of genetically modified organisms intended for release into 
the environment) working days from the date of receipt of the application, provided that the 
information s ubmitted is complete. Should further information be required, the process will be 
suspended until the relevant information has been received. Authorization must therefore be 
requested in accordance with the established time limits. The timeframe and proced ures for 
the safeguards report are the same as for the biological safety import licence for biological 
materials, equipment or technology.  
 
(b)  In Cuba's case, it is not possible to grant authorization immediately except under very 
exceptional circumstanc es, as the products concerned pose a risk to those handling them, to 
the community and to the environment. Enough time is therefore needed to carry out a risk 
analysis that includes bibliographical consultation, consultation with experts and the 
applicatio n of risk identification techniques.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which an application may be  made.  
 
(d) Examination of biological safety licence applications is the job of the CNSB. However, in  the 
course of its exami nation, it may need to call on experts from other administrative bodies to 
assist in reaching a final decision. Applications are also submitted to ORSA  for an opinion on 
whether or not the activities are appropriate. ORSA 's technical report is binding for the 
granting of a biological safety licence.  
 
8. In general, applications for biological safety import licences may be refused for two reasons:  
 
-  The activity's adverse effects on human, animal and plant health or the environment are so 
evident that authorization is inadvisable in the light of the conditions in the country.  
-  The anticipated benefits are not worth the risks involved.  
 
In addition to the granting or refusal of a licence, other decisions may be taken:  
 
-  The granting of a licence with  certain conditions attached to its validity: the competent 
authority may approve a planned activity and issue a licence with the rider that the holder will 
make the requisite changes or improvements within the specified time limit or else the licence 
will lose its validity.  
-  Deferral: granting of the licence is deferred when changes or improvements to the planned 
activity are needed in order to remedy safety defects and so forestall any adverse effects.  
 
In the event of refusal or deferral, the competent  authority must state the grounds in writing, 
accounting for the decision in detail.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  Appeal against the competent authority's decision lies within 10 working days of the date 
of notification, as appropriate, to:  
 
-  The Director -General of ORSA . 
-  The Minister of the CITMA when the impugned decision is upheld by the Director -General of  
ORSA . 
 
The authority concerned must rule within 15 working days of the date on which the appeal was filed.  
 
All the above procedures are described in and regulated by  Resolution No.  180/2007 "Regulations 
for the granting of Biological Safety Authorization".  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importers must be registered in the National Register for Exporters and Importers of the Chamber 
of Commerce of the  Republic of Cuba.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. In order to obtain an import licence, the applicant must submit a technical file, accompanied by 
a written application for a biological safety licence, to the compet ent authority. The following 
information must be included:  
 
-  name of the facility or release area;  
-  body or organization to which it belongs;  
-  date of application;  
-  legal domicile, telephone and fax numbers, e -mail address;  
-  description of the pr oposed activity;  
-  risk assessment carried out for each activity;  
-  name, surname and signature of the entity's legal representative;  
-  official stamp of the entity;  
-  certified copy of the requesting entity's charter;  
-  certified copy of the document  officially appointing the owner of the requesting entity.  
 
The technical file must also contain the general information referred to in Annexes 5, 6, 11, 12 and 
13 to Resolution No.  180/2007 pertaining to the specific product to be imported.  
 
11. Upon imp ortation, the relevant biological safety licence is required.  
 
12. Import licences cost between CUP 345 and 3,979.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity of a licence depends on the assessment made by the specialist in charge 
of the process. To renew a licence upon its expiry, a new letter of application must be submitted to 
ORSA .  
 
15. Penalties are imposed only if importation ta kes place without biological safety authorization or 
after the licence expiry date.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable between importers.  
 
17. The issuing of a licence is subject to the conditions laid down in the legislation on biological 
safety.  
Other p rocedural requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  1.1.1.3   Chemical safety  
1.1.1.3.1   Ozone depleting substances  
Outline of systems  
1. A licence is required to import substances that have the potential to deplete the ozone layer 
(otherwise known as ozone -depleting substances or ODS), and products, equipment and 
technologies that use these substances. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that emissions 
and the use of these substances at national level are maintained at the levels and within the ranges 
that are authorized under international commitments.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The system covers any substance pertaining to the hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) group, and 
mixtures thereof; R -401A (chlorodifluoromethane, difluoroethane and chlo rotetrafluoroethane), 
R-409A (chlorodifluoromethane, chlorotetrafluoroethane and chlorodifluoroethane) and R -408A 
(chlorodifluoromethane, trifluoroethane and pentafluoroethane), etc. Also included are products and 
equipment containing these substances (e.g . refrigerated and/or air-conditioned  transport units, 
portable extinguishers, refrigerators, freezers, heat -pumps, and aerosol products). The latter will 
only be allowed entry into the country until 31 December 2014.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods f rom any country in the world.  
 
4. Licensing is intended to restrict the quantity of imports through the use of a nationally established 
maximum quota for each substance, with a view to progressively reducing the substances in question 
until they are totall y eliminated, in compliance with Cuba's obligations as a signatory to the Vienna 
Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and the Montreal Protocol on Substances that 
Deplete the Ozone Layer.  
 
5. Law No. 81 on the environment, Article 12(g) and (i ); and CITMA Resolution No. 116/2005. Import 
licensing is mandatory. The legislation specifies the substances covered by this licensing system. 
The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation of 
products sub ject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government 
to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. In the fourth quarter of the year, ORSA , together with Cubaenergía, establishes and notifies all 
interested parties of the following year's annual maximum import quota for each controlled 
substance, in accordance with the national schedule for the elimination of these substances. This 
quota cannot be carried over from one year to the next.  
 
The authorize d importers of controlled substances are Empresa Cubana Importadora -Exportadora 
de Productos Químicos (QUIMIMPORT), Grup o Empresarial Comercializadora ITH and Empresa 
Importadora -Exportadora TECNOTEX.  
 
These importers submit their applications to ORSA  twice a year, at the beginning of the first and the 
second half of the year, along with the requests from the central government agencies (OACE). Once 
the import quota has been allocated, sales proceed in accordance with a distribution procedure based 
on needs  and availability. This information is not published and is supplied only to the interested 
parties ( ORSA  and entities concerned), as explained above. The approved figure is the overall 
amount and is set regardless of the country of origin. The legislation  does not provide for any 
exceptions or derogations from the licensing requirement.   
 
I.  Quota size is determined on a yearly basis (calendar year). Quotas cannot be carried over 
from one year to the next, and they remain in effect only for the period of validity of the 
import licence (until 31 December of the year in question). Import licences are valid for only 
one shipment. If the anticipated amount is too large for a single shipment, a new licence must 
be requested for the excess within the s ame calendar year.  
 
II.  Importing entities are required to keep a permanent inventory of imports of these substances 
and their destinations. In July and December each year, they must notify the Technical Ozone 
Office, by means of an official communication  signed by their most senior executive, of all G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  imports and sales of ozone -depleting substances, and products, equipment, and technologies 
containing such substances. Every three months, the Customs General of the Republic notifies 
promptly to ORSA  the data  relating to actual imports into Cuba of all regulated and controlled 
ozone -depleting substances, and products, equipment and technologies. The  environmental 
authority (CICA) is free to order a state environmental inspection to monitor compliance with 
the requirements set out in the licences granted.  
 
III.  Applications must be submitted in the year for which the quota is assigned, in any period of 
the year, 60 working days before the scheduled shipment date. Licences remain valid until 
31 December of the year in which they are granted.  
 
IV.  Import licences are granted within a maximum period of 30 working days.   
 
V.  Upon receiving the application, ORSA  reviews the documentation supplied and determines 
within a period of five working days following receip t whether or not to issue the environmental 
licence . The period for issuing a licence concludes within 30 working days as from the date of 
acceptance of the application by ORSA . Within that period, ORSA  informs the applicant in 
writing whether the licence has been awarded or refused.  
 
VI.  Applications are submitted to ORSA , which is based at the CITMA. It is not necessary to 
approach any other administrative body.  
 
VII.   Applications are always submitted by the importer and must specify the entities the 
substances are for and the quantities of substance to be imported for each of those entities, 
in accordance with the amounts allocated in advance by ORSA  (HCFCs). ORSA  allocates these 
amounts on the basis of the requests that the entities have made, and the  overall amount 
that the country can allow without affecting its international phase out commitments.  
 
VIII. Applications are examined and, once approved in the same order, they are notified, thus 
ensuring that any importer to which a quota has been alloca ted can apply for the necessary 
licence.  
 
IX.  Not applicable.  
 
X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI.  No. 
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the da te of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 
(b) Licences cannot be extended. A new licence may be requested, within the same calendar year, 
if all of the anticipated amount is not imported.  
 
(c) There are no such limitations.  
 
(d) In such cases, environmental licences are granted solely by the CICA.  
 
8. An application for an import licence may be refused if any of the requirements set forth in the 
legislation are not met; the applicant is notified in wr iting of the grounds for the refusal. No appeal 
lies from a refusal.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. The importation and exportation of the substances in question and products, equipment and 
technologies that use these substances must be authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Trade by 
means of a resolution defining the substance type or group.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Form issued by the authority.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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11. The relevant licence must be presented to C ustoms.  
 
12. There is a fee of CUP 62.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Licences are valid for the year in progress. They cannot be extended.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. They are not transferable.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other procedures.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
1.1.1.3.2   Chemical substances  
Outline of systems  
1. Importation into Cuba of the substances listed in Schedules 1, 2 and 3 of the Chemical Weapons 
Convention (CWC) and those regulated by the Rotte rdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent 
Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade, 1998, to which 
Cuba is party, is subject to an import licensing system which ensures that these substances are used 
for purposes not prohibited by the CWC or the Rotterdam Convention. Such licences are granted 
only to properly established legal persons.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Parties that are interested in importing any of the substances listed in Schedules 1, 2 and 3 of 
the CWC or those restricted under the Rotterdam Convention must apply for an import licence. 
Applications must indicate the following: chemical name of the substance, quantity, Schedule to 
which the substance belongs, name of director of the entity, o wner, legal domicile, import licence 
number (as certified by the certificate of registration with the National Register of Exporters and 
Importers of the Chamber of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba), commercial invoice, name and 
address of the exporter, co untry of origin and country of provenance.  
 
Licences are valid for only one import transaction.  
 
The import and industrial use of crocidolite (blue asbestos), polychlorinated terphenyls 
(Resolution  No. 96/2004), pentachlorophenol (Resolution No. 96/2004) and ethylene dichloride 
(Resolution No.  96/2004) are prohibited. The industrial use in textile production of polybrominated 
biphenyls (only polybrominated) and tris (2,3 -dibromopropyl) phosphate (Res. 96/2004) is 
prohibited. The use of polybrominated biphe nyls and tris (2,3 -dibromopropyl) phosphate for 
purposes other than textile production is subject to licensing (by ORSA , Resolution No. 96/2004). 
The industrial use of ethylene oxide for sterilization purposes (Resolution No. 96/2004) in the 
national healt h system and procedures ensuring its operation is restricted. The import and domestic 
marketing of polychlorinated biphenyls (askarels) and electrical equipment containing more than 50 
ppm PCBs is prohibited (Resolution No. 96/2004), as is the importation of anthophyllite, tremolite, 
actinolite and amosite (Resolution No. 96/2004).  
 
Any natural or legal person, whether a Cuban national or a foreigner, that possesses in whatever 
quantity or form any of the pesticides that are prohibited under the first claus e of this Resolution 
shall immediately notify the Director of the municipal hygiene and epidemiology centre or unit in the 
territory concerned, who shall send a state health inspector within a period of 24 hours from receipt 
of the notification to guarante e compliance with the current legislation governing pesticides. 
(Resolution No.268/1990)  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
All 192 States Parties to the CWC  may market the controlled substances of Schedules 1 and 2 
(according to Article V, paragraph 1 of the Convention, "[e]ach State Party has the right, subject to 
the provisions of this Convention, to develop, produce, otherwise acquire, retain, transfer and  use 
toxic chemicals and their precursors for purposes not prohibited under this Convention"). Any State 
Party and State not party to the CWC may market Schedule 3 substances, provided that the latter 
issues a certificate stating the final destination of t he substances (according to Article VI, 
Part VIII C). 
 
The purpose of the system is to ensure that Schedule 1, 2 and 3 substances, and products containing 
such substances in the percentages established, are imported only for purposes not prohibited under 
the CWC. The procedure limits the quantity of Schedule 1 substances in the country at any given 
time, which cannot exceed one tonne, and ensures that transfers of Schedule  1 and 2 substances 
and the products containing them take place only between States  Parties. With  regard to Schedule 
3 substances, if they are transferred to a State not party to the CWC, that State must issue a 
certificate stating their end use and confirming that they are to be used for non-prohibited  purposes.  
 
4. The procedure is design ed to limit the volume of imports and reflects the country's determination 
to support all actions aimed at the non-proliferation  of weapons of mass destruction and hence at 
destroying those in existence in any part of the world, in the light of the disastr ous consequences of 
the use of CWC controlled substances for humankind and the future of our planet. As to the 
substances covered by the Rotterdam Convention, it is considered of the utmost importance, in view 
of the relevance of this instrument and the gr owing risks and hazards posed by increased production 
and trade in chemical substances, to prohibit the use of certain toxic chemicals and to expand the 
scope of the Convention to other products of this nature, thus preventing the introduction into Cuba 
of unwanted chemicals.  
 
5. Decree -Law No. 202 on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of 
Chemical Weapons and the Destruction Thereof of 24 December 1999 refers in Chapter  III, entitled 
"Licences and Permits", to the general ru les concerning the procedure for the granting of licences 
and permits for activities involving the chemical substances listed in the CWC.  
 
Resolution No.  32/2005 implements the supplementary regulations to Decree -Law No. 202 entitled:  
"Regulations for the Implementation of the National System for the Control of the Chemical 
Substances Listed in the CWC, the Granting of Licences and Permits, and Information Processing", 
Chapter III of which, including the first and second sections thereof, is devoted to expl aining the 
procedures for the granting and refusal of licences, appeals, the responsibilities of the competent 
authority, and the time frames and deadlines for processing the licences and permits to be obtained 
by entities conducting activities involving t he substances listed in the CWC.  
 
Resolution No.  159/1995 and Resolution No.  96/2004 provide for the domestic implementation 
of activities relating to the Rotterdam Convention and prohibit or restrict the importation 
and industrial use of various chemicals . 
 
Under the above -mentioned  legal instruments, licensing is compulsory for activities involving the 
use of substances listed therein.  
 
The controlled substances are listed in the Annexes to these instruments. The Council of State (the 
legislature) has mad e licensing a statutory requirement and empowers the CITMA (the executive) 
to establish the terms and conditions for each system.  
 
The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation of 
products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government 
to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6.I.  This info rmation is not published. The quantity allocated to the country is one tonne. Parties 
that are interested in importing any of the substances listed in Schedules 1, 2 and 3 of the 
CWC or those restricted under the Rotterdam Convention apply for an import li cence from 
ORSA . Licences are valid for only one import transaction.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 11 - 
  II.  The legislation does not provide for quotas to ensure that the quantity of a CWC Schedule  1 
substance in the country does not exceed one tonne at any given time. This is instead 
controlled through licence applications for any activity involving these substances, including 
importation. In the event of a risk of the above quantity being exceeded, licence applications, 
whether or not relating to importation, are rejected in accordance w ith the established 
procedure. No activities have been conducted in the country using Schedule 1 substances.  
 
III.  Not applicable.  
 
IV.  The deadline for the submission of applications is 60 days prior to the start of the activity 
(importation/exportation ).  
This deadline does not apply to applications for the importation or exportation of saxitoxin in 
quantities of 5 mg or less. In these cases a licence may be requested up until the time of entry 
into or departure from the country, provided that the transfer is for medical or diagnostic 
purposes.  
 
V.  The processing period for applications is 30 days, though it is shorter for both imports and 
exports when ORSA  receives the commercial invoice.  
 
VI.  Licences are issued for the date of importation indicated on the commercial invoice.  
 
VII.  ORSA  is the competent administrative body. In cases where another type of authorization is 
required for the importation, manufacture or other uses of chemical substances, the 
processing and granting of licences will be contin gent upon the authorization issued by that 
body.  
 
VIII.  On a first -come, first -served basis.  
 
IX.  Not applicable.  
 
X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI.  Not applicable.  
 
7. There are no quantitative limits on the importation of CWC Schedule 2 and 3 substances and 
products containing such substances in the percentages set forth in the CWC, if they are used for 
non-prohibited  purposes.  
 
(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained pri or to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual c ase. In exceptional circumstances, the Director of ORSA  may authorize the 
granting of a licence even when the application has not been submitted within the established 
time frame.  
 
(b) Import licences cannot be granted immediately. They are issued for only  one substance, one 
import transaction, and when the importer presents the commercial invoice.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which the licence application may 
be submitted or the importation effected.  
 
(d) ORSA  is the competent administrative body. In cases where another type of authorization is 
required for the importation, manufacture or other uses of chemical substances, the 
processing and granting of licences will be contingent upon the authorization issued by that 
body.  
 
8. Licence applications may be refused on the grounds of failure to meet the above criteria or other 
criteria set forth in current legislation.  The reasons for refusal are set forth in a licence refusal letter, 
in accordance with the "Procedure for Processing Applications for ORSA Authorization".  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 12 - 
  Applicants have the right to appeal to the Director of ORSA  within 30 working days of the date on 
which they receive the communication notifying them of the refusal.  
 
Should the appeal be turned down by the Director of ORSA , an application for a Special Review 
Procedure may be made within 180 days of that decision to the Minister of Science, Technology an d 
the Environment if there is evidence of a blatant flaw in the taking of the decision or if there is 
information that the authority that refused authorization did not have or was not aware of at the 
time. A ruling must be issued within 30 working days of the receipt of the review application.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importers must be registered in the National Register for Exporters and Importers of the Chamber 
of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba.  
Documentational and other require ments for application for licence  
10. An application form for authorization to import chemical substances listed in the CWC. The 
importer must submit the following documents with the application:  
 
- photocopies of the decision appointing the director of th e entity and the entity's charter;  
- photocopy of the certificate of registration with the National Register of Exporters and 
Importers of the Chamber of Commerce;  
- photocopy of the commercial invoice.  
 
11. Other documents required by the Customs General of the Republic include the importer's licence 
to import chemical substances listed in the CWC.  
 
12. Each import licence costs CUP 897.  
 
13. The issuing of licences is not associated with any deposit or advance payment requirement apart 
from the applicatio n fee.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import licences are valid for only one import or export transaction. They cannot be extended.  
 
15. Entities which conduct activities involving CWC substances without the relevant authorization 
are committing an administra tive offence sanctioned by Agreement No.  5517, adopted by the 
Executive Committee of the Council of Ministers on 26  August  2005, without prejudice to any civil 
and criminal liability incurred.  
 
16. Import licences are not transferable between importers.  
 
17. No conditions are attached to the issue of a licence other than the requirements set forth in 
current legislation.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Yes, there are some other prior administrative procedures of this sort.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
1.1.2   Director ate of Nuclear Safety (DSN)  
Outline of systems  
1. Authorization is required to import ionizing radiation sources (radioactive sources and ionizing 
radiation generating equipment). This provides a means of controlling the sources entering the 
country and en suring that the use to which they will be put is proper and safe. Authorization is also 
required to import nuclear materials and significant components so as to verify that they are being 
imported for peaceful and authorized purposes, in accordance with th e safeguards regime for such 
materials.  
 
Licences are granted to Cuban and non -Cuban legal persons based or represented in the Republic  of 
Cuba.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 13 - 
  These procedures are in conformity with the Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of 
Radioactive Sources and supplementary Guidance on the Import and Export of Radioactive Sources, 
of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and with the nuclear non-proliferation  
commitments under the treaties on non-proliferation  and prohibition of nuclear weapons in L atin 
America and the Caribbean.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The authorization described above is granted in the form of:  
 
- import licences;  
- authorization to transfer nuclear material or significant components (or both), insofar as the 
importat ion is considered an international transfer.  
 
Ionizing radiation source: Anything that produces ionizing radiation and might cause exposure to 
such radiation.  
 
Nuclear material: Uranium containing the mixture of isotopes occurring in nature; uranium deplet ed 
in the isotope 235; thorium; any of the foregoing in the form of metal, alloy, chemical compound, 
or concentrate. Plutonium 239; uranium 233; uranium enriched in the isotopes 235 or 233; and any 
material containing one or more of the foregoing.  
 
Signifi cant components: Equipment or components for nuclear installations or those of the type used 
in such installations, specially designed or developed for the treatment, utilization or production of 
nuclear material.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. In this case, licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity of imports; its purpose is to assess 
the radioactive sources or ionizing radiation emitting equipment which enter the country in terms of 
radioactivity rela ted risks, bearing in mind that justification for the import of these goods hinges on 
the use to be made of them in Cuba and the safety requirements to be met during use. With regard 
to nuclear material or significant components, transfer authorization is required in order to control 
the nuclear material imported into the country, both quantitatively and qualitatively, ensuring that 
it is destined for peaceful use, and preventing any unauthorized use, waste or movement, in 
accordance with the safeguards agr eements concluded between the Republic of Cuba and the IAEA.  
 
5. Decree -Law No. 207 of 14 February 2000 on the use of nuclear energy. CITMA  Resolution No. 
334 of 29 December 2011 "Regulations governing the Notification and Authorization of Practices and 
Activities associated with the Use of Ionizing Radiation Sources".  
 
Import licensing is mandatory. The legislation specifies the products tha t are subject to licensing in 
each case.  
 
The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation of 
products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government 
to abolish t he system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case. Under current legislation, an import licence must be obtained from ORSA 
prior to the introduction of ionizing radiation sources into the country. It is provided that ORSA  
must respond to a licence application within 30 working days of its receipt.  
 
(b) For the transfer of nuclear material or signific ant components, applications must be submitted 
90 days before the scheduled date of importation.  
 
(c) Given that an assessment is required, a licence can never be granted immediately.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 14 - 
   
(d) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which an application for a licence 
may be made. ORSA is the sole body responsible for considering licence applications.  
 
8. Under Article 20 of CITMA Resolution No. 334/2011, an application for a licence to import ionizing 
radiation sources may be rejected on th e following grounds:  
 
- the documents provided by the applicant are incomplete or have not been prepared in 
accordance with the requirements of CITMA Resolution No. 334/2011;  
- the application has not been signed by the entity's legal representative;  
- the documents and information are confusing, incomplete or contradictory;  
- the activity for which authorization is requested is not justified for the purposes of radiological 
protection;  
- the applicant does not meet the regulatory and safety requirements for conducting the 
activity.  
 
Authorization to transfer nuclear material or significant components is not granted unless the 
requesting entity is authorized to use such material or components.  
 
The CNSN notifies the requesting entity in writin g of the rejection of the application for a licence to 
import ionizing radiation sources and attaches the report setting out the grounds for the decision.  
 
Appeal to the Director -General of ORSA against the decision rejecting the application lies within 10  
working days of the date of notification of the decision.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importers must be registered in the National Register for Exporters and Importers of the Chamber 
of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba.  
Documentationa l and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Applications for licences to import ionizing radiation sources must be submitted by the legal 
representative of the interested entity, using the form contained in Annex 2 to CITMA Resolution No. 
334/2011. The application form must be signed by the legal representative, stamped by the entity, 
and include information such as the name and address of the requesting entity, the name and 
surname of the entity's legal representative, and the type of authoriz ation requested.  
 
Applications to transfer nuclear material or significant components must be submitted using the 
forms contained in Annexes 2 and 4 to CITMA Resolution No. 62/1996, as appropriate.  
 
11. Applicants for licences to import ionizing radiation sources must submit the following documents 
and information:  
 
- legal document certifying that the entity is authorized to import;  
- tariff heading(s);  
- details of the sources to be imported, pursuant to Annex 7 to CITMA Resolution No. 334/2011,  
which specifies the information to be submitted, such as the name of the radioactive source 
and whether or not it is sealed, or in the case of ionizing radiation generating equipment, 
details that include the following: source activity and category, radio nuclide activity, source 
serial number, equipment model, use and voltage, and type of radiation emitted;  
- entity for which the imported source is destined, including: name, legal domicile, fax number, 
e-mail address, and consent to receive the source;  
- expected date of arrival in national territory;  
- entity responsible for transportation of the source to the receiving entity (except for radiation 
generating equipment);  
- air or maritime terminal at which the source is expected to arrive;  
- in the case o f sealed sources, certification of leak tightness testing in accordance with 
ISO 9978 or another internationally recognized standard;  
- certification of special form radioactive material under current regulations on the transport of 
radioactive material;  
- in the case of ionizing radiation emitting equipment, detailed information on the equipment's 
safety characteristics, provided by the manufacturer, and certification from the regulatory 
authority in the country of origin concerning the approval of the des ign; G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 15 - 
  - production certificate for sealed sources;  
- certification of ISO 2919 classification of the source;  
- package design approval certificate for the transportation of Type B packages in accordance 
with the regulations in force on the transport of radioactive material.  
 
12. A fee of CUP 1,263 is charged for the issue of an import licence, as laid down in Ministry of 
Finance and Prices Resolution No. 347/2012.  
 
There is no charge for the authorization to transfer nuclear materials or sig nificant components.  
 
13. There is no deposit or advance payment requirement. The only payment required is the fee 
referred to in point 12 above. If authorization is refused, the applicant is not required to make any 
payment.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Th e period of validity of an import licence is specified by the CNSN on a case by case basis 
according to the prevailing circumstances. When an import licence expires, a new one must be 
requested, which will have a new period of validity.  
 
15. There is no pe nalty for the non-utilization  of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Import licences are not transferable.  
 
17. No other conditions are attached to the issuing of these licences. The licence holder must adhere 
to the licensing requirements.   
Other p rocedural requirements  
18. No other procedures are required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
1.2  National Bureau of Standards (ONN)  
Outline of systems  
1. Technical authorization is granted by the ONN 's Directorate of Metrology, in its capacity as t he 
national regulatory authority, following verification that the goods being imported comply with the 
mandatory technical requirements.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Measuring instruments and equipment which are subject to metrological control under Cuban 
Standard NC -OIML-D19:94 "Pattern Evaluation and Approval" and for which the ONN is the national 
regulatory authority for evaluation, approval and registration.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. Licen sing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  
 
5. Decree -Law No. 183 of 23 February 1998 and its Regulatory Decrees Nos. 270 and 271 of 
10 January 2001, and Resolution No. 148 of 23 September 2014 of the Director -General of the 
Nationa l Bureau of Standards. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does 
not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not 
possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizatio ns to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 16 - 
   
(b) No, because the documents provided have to be exam ined by specialists.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to when applications may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of applications is effected by a single body, the ONN.  
 
8. Applicants are informed of the criteria for the approval or refusal of a licence. They hav e the right 
to file a written complaint, with attached supporting documentation, in respect of any breach  of 
terms of the contract established with the ONN or the consequences thereof, within 30  calendar days 
of the breach. The ONN must examine the complai nt and respond within 10 days of receipt.  
A complaint -response extension of up to 10 working days may be granted.  
 
The Parties are bound to settle any dispute regarding the interpretation, implementation, 
amendment or cancellation of the established cont ract amicably and in good faith. If no agreement 
is reached, the dispute must be referred to the Economic Division of the competent People's 
Provincial Court, as stipulated in Decree -Law No. 241 of 26 September 2006.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for l icence  
9. Importers must be registered in the National Register for Exporters and Importers of the Chamber 
of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Companies importing and exporting measuring instruments and equipment subject to pattern 
evaluation and approval must apply to the ONN's Directorate of Metrology for a pattern approval 
certificate, as established in the "Procedure for the pattern evalu ation and approval of measuring 
instruments". Once they have obtained this certificate, they then have to apply for technical 
authorization from the ONN's Marketing and Investment Department (DCI) for each contract, which 
must be presented to the Customs G eneral of the Republic (AGR) to secure the release of the goods. 
The ONN, through its accredited inspection bodies, can check compliance with the established 
pattern evaluation and approval requirements.  
 
Applications for technical authorization are submit ted to the DCI on the official application form and 
must be accompanied by the following documents:  
 
- registration certificate issued by the competent national authority for products subject to this 
requirement;  
- certificates of tests carried out on the product in accordance with the corresponding standard;  
- management system certificate, if obtained;  
- European Conformity (Conformité Européenne, CE) mark certificate, if obtained;  
- China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark certificate for products from China;  
- certificate of product conformity issued by a certification body;  
- any other document demonstrating compliance with international or regional standards.  
 
If need be, agreement must be reached as to any additional documents or information that mus t be 
submitted for analysis and subsequent approval or rejection.  
 
The DCI reserves the right to make acceptance of the application conditional upon submission 
by the applicant of all the technical information required for evaluation. The contract is signe d 
at the time of filing of the application. Applicants importing products that do not have a 
certificate of conformity demonstrating compliance with the relevant mandatory Cuban 
standard must apply at least 30 calendar days ahead of time to the Conformity Assessment 
Directorate of the ONN for batch certification in accordance with the established procedures. 
Once these steps have been completed, the corresponding technical authorization can be 
issued.  
 
11. The technical authorization, which must be presente d to the AGR to secure the release of the 
goods.  
 
12. Applicants must pay 100% of the total value of the service by cheque or bank transfer once the 
corresponding pre -invoices, established in line with the current regulations and rates, have been 
issued.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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13. No.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The validity period is one year and it may be extended by following the same procedure as for 
the initial application. If an applicant fails to submit the required technical documentation within 30 
working days of the d ate on which the application was filed, the application will be cancelled. If an 
applicant fails to make payment within 30 days of the date of issue of the pre invoice, the technical 
authorization will be cancelled.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable between importers.  
 
17. No.  
 
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
2  MINISTRY OF AGRICULT URE (MINAG)  
2.1   Directorate of Plant Health (DSV)  
Outline of systems  
1. Licences are required to import the materials subject to quarantine listed in Decree -Law No. 153 
(regulated items).  
 
Licences are granted to companies, unions and other State organizations, State bodies and agencies, 
budgeted entities, joint ventures, a nd commercial corporations legally established in national 
territory, and to national or foreign natural or legal persons expressly authorized by law to engage 
in international trade in goods and registered in the National Register of Exporters and Importe rs of 
the Chamber of Commerce of Cuba. This procedure is in conformity with the International Plant 
Protection Convention  (IPPC) under the FAO.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Import licences are granted for materials subject to quarantine (regulated  items) that do not 
represent a danger to Cuban agriculture, in particular those intended for sowing, and fresh fruits 
and vegetables originating in areas free of fruit flies. This includes materials relating to those 
materials subject to quarantine (regul ated items), for any use.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. Licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity of imports, rather to prevent the introduction of 
pests.  
 
5. Decree -Law No. 153, Articles 3(2), 18(a), 25 an d 30; and Ministry of Agriculture Resolution 
No. 435 of 1994. Phytosanitary import licensing is mandatory and the legislation establishes which 
products are subject to these procedures. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The 
legislation does  not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrative discretion 
and it is not possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the co mmercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 18 - 
  (b) Article 8 of Resolution No.  435/94 provides that import licences must be requested 60 days 
prior to shipment of the goods from their country of origin. The approval or rejection of the 
application is notified within 30 days of the date on which it was submitted, although this 
period may vary under certain circumstances. If goods arrive in the country without a permit 
or a licence, Decree No.  169/1992 on infringements will be applied.  
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Applications for licences may be made during any period of the year. The period during which 
importation is authorized, however, is specified on the licence granted. Pursuant t o Decree -
Law No. 190/99 on biological safety for exotic plants, the interested party must first present 
the licence granted by the National Centre for Biological Safety (CSB), the Centre for 
Environmental Management and Inspection, or the Institute of Ecol ogy and Systematics, to 
the National Centre for Plant Health (CNSV).  
 
8. Licence applications may be refused if a pest risk analysis shows that the product to be imported 
represents a danger to the country. The interested party is notified of this and inf ormed of the 
technical considerations relating to the refusal. No appeal lies from a refusal.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importers must be registered in the National Register for Exporters and Importers of the Chamber 
of Commerce of t he Republic of Cuba.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The importer must complete the application form.  
 
11. The importer or its representative must be in possession of an import licence and the certificates 
specified therein.  
 
12. All licences granted must be paid for. The fee is determined beforehand in the services contract 
between the importer and the CNSV in accordance with the rate established in Ministry  of Agriculture 
Resolution No.  2669/2005.  
 
13. No deposit o r advance payment requirement is associated with the issuing of licences.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. A licence is valid for up to one year. Validity may be extended by following the same procedure 
as for the previous application. It speeds formalities up to provide the number of the previous 
phytosanitary licence.  
 
15. There are no penalties.  
 
16. No, licences are not transferable between importers.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
 
18. Other procedural requirements  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
2.2  Department of Soils and Fertilizers (DSF)  
Outline of systems  
1. Registration and a  licence are required to import fertilizers to ensure that the use of these 
substances at national level is maintained at the levels and within the ranges that are authorized.  
Purposes and coverage  of licensing  
2. The following products are subject to mandatory registration with the Central Registration 
Authority for Fertilizers in order to enter and be used in Cuba:  
-  chemical and/or mineral fertilizers;  
-  organo -mineral fertilizers;  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 19 - 
  -  biologica l fertilizers;  
-  organic fertilizers;  
-  soil amendments;  
-  stimulants.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. Licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity and/or value of imports; rather, its purpose is to 
ensure control of the use in Cuba of substances that may be hazardous to life or have a pollutant 
effect on the environment.  
 
5. Decree No.  179/1993 "Protection, Use and Conservation of Soils and Infringements thereof", 
which lays down the parameters and o bligations governing the use and conservation of  Cuban soil; 
Ministry of Justice Resolution No.  7/2001 authorizing the establishment of the Central Registration 
Authority for Fertilizers; and Ministry of Agriculture Resolution No.  369/2019 implementing the  
Central Registration Authority for Fertilizers, which sets out the documents to be submitted with an 
application for registration, the statutory procedures to be followed and the assessments to be 
conducted by the Committee of Experts.  
 
Registration is s tatutorily required under the legislative instruments referred to above.  
 
The legislation that forms the legal framework for the control system provides that all products 
referred to in point  2 of this questionnaire are subject to licensing.  
 
Since the legal basis is Decree No.  179/1993 "Protection, Use and Conservation of Soil and 
Infringements thereof", legislative approval must be obtained for its abolition.  
 
The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designat ion of 
products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government 
to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable as there are no restrictions as to quantity or value.  
 
7.(a) The sp ecific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commerci al operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case. The time taken to process an application for a fertilizer before registration 
in the Central Register varies depending on how co mplex the fertilizer in question is. The 
potential dangers that a fertilizer poses to life and the environment are assessed by field tests 
and trials.  
 
(b)  No, the process must run its full course before registration is possible.  
 
(c)  There are no limita tions as to the period of the year.  
 
(d)  The importer only has to approach the Central Registration Authority for Fertilizers.  
 
8. There are no circumstances other than those described above under which a licence application 
may be refused. The applicant is always informed of the reasons for any refusal. No appeal is possible 
because the decision is the opinion of a committee of experts composed of trained specialists 
representing a range of bodies.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Entities  and institutions are eligible to apply subject to presentation of accreditation in Cuba by 
the appropriate bodies; natural persons are eligible to apply subject to presentation of a power 
confirming their accreditation by the entity they represent. There is no restrictive licensing register 
for registration applications.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Applications must contain the following information:  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 20 - 
   
-  powers confirming the credentials of the person applying for  registration;  
-  an official application form (the original and one copy);  
-  technical information about the commercial product;  
-  draft labelling;  
-  list of countries where the product is authorized indicating the registration number and 
recommended uses;  
-  product patent, where appropriate;  
-  a sample of the product commensurate with the quantities required for the tests and trials 
that will be conducted.  
 
11. Documents attesting to approval and registration with the Central Registratio n Authority for 
Fertilizers.  
 
12. There is no set fee or charge. The amount charged depends on product type and the analyses 
and tests conducted on it in light of its features. The amount charged is based on the official price 
list drawn up for such activi ties. 
 
13. The issue of a licence is subject to payment of the analyses and tests conducted. The amount 
charged is not refundable and is based on the criteria referred to in point 12 above.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Licences do not expire provided that t he composition and formulation of the fertilizer remain the 
same as when the licence application was made.  
 
15. The penalties are those provided for in Decree No.  179/1993 "Protection, Use and Conservation 
of the Soil and Contraventions Thereof".  
 
16. They  are not transferable.  
 
17. Not applicable.   
Other procedural requirements  
18. As far as Cuba is concerned, those laid down in relation to registration with the 
Central  Registration Authority for Fertilizers.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
2.3  Directorate of Animal Hea lth (DSA)  
Outline of systems  
1. Sanitary -veterinary regulations governing the importation of animals, animal products, biological 
products and materials of any origin which are liable to harm animal health and which arrive in 
national territory by sea or b y air. 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The purposes of licensing are protection of national territory from the introduction of exotic 
diseases; prevention and control of animal diseases, including zoonoses; epizootiological monitoring; 
veterinary drug registration; and sanitary/hygienic cont rol of food of animal origin intended for 
human consumption or animal feed. The established regulations cover imports of the following:  
 
-  live domestic and wild animals of protected species;  
-  products of animal origin for consumption or for industrial, decorative, experimental or 
research purposes;  
-  microbial and parasitic agents that affect animal health;  
-  vaccines, strains and other similar products used in veterinary medicine;  
-  culture and diagnostic media with components of animal o rigin; and  
-  elements, products and packaging of any origin capable of transmitting or carrying animal 
diseases.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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4. There is no restriction as to the value or quantity of imports; licens ing is solely for sanitary 
purposes.  
 
5. Law No. 1224, Decree -Law No. 137 and Resolution No. 121 of 1993 of the Ministry of Agriculture 
(MINAG). Licensing is mandatory. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation 
does not leave the de signation of products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is 
not possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
6. Not applicable.  
Procedures  
7. There is no restriction as to the value or quantity of i mports.  
 
(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the st art of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 
(b)  A licence cannot be granted immediately given that the established procedure must be 
followed.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations as to the period of the year.  
 
(d)  Consideration of applications is effected solely by the Directorate of Animal Health.  
 
8. Without prejudice to whether or not an infringement of the provisions on veterinary medicine has 
been established, preventive, counter -epizootic, therapeutic and any other measures required may 
be imposed in respect of ships, aircraft and land transport vehicles of any class deemed to contain 
organisms, micro -organisms or other animal -disease -carrying or a nimal -disease -causing agents.  
 
Where required, the preventive detention for further examination of animals, products of animal 
origin, means of transport and equipment may also be ordered.  
 
The State inspection and sanitary control of food and products of animal origin for human 
consumption is conducted in the facilities where they are processed or stored or in their means of 
transport by the Ministry of Agriculture in conjunction with, and under the direction of, the Ministry 
of Public Health.  
 
The Ministr y of Agriculture, in conjunction with the Ministry of Finance, will establish the regulations 
governing the compensation, where applicable, due to owners in the event of sanitary slaughter 
under the infectious and contagious disease control programme.  
 
Biological and pharmaceutical preparations produced in Cuba for farming and veterinary activities 
or for foreign trade are subject to the corresponding controls, in accordance with the standards 
established by the Ministry of Agriculture. Imported biological and pharmaceutical preparations are 
subject to controls prior to their use in national territory, in accordance with the quality certification 
provided by the manufacturer.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Entities and institutions are elig ible to apply subject to presentation of accreditation in Cuba by 
the appropriate bodies; natural persons are eligible to apply subject to presentation of a power 
confirming their accreditation by the entity they represent.  
Documentational and other requir ements for application for licence  
10. All applications for authorization to import animals must be accompanied by the certification 
issued by the competent authorities of the exporting country, authenticated and certified by the 
Cuban consular authority, where appropriate.  
 
Applications are granted or refused on the basis of a health risk analysis.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 22 - 
  11. The import licence issued by the DSA is required.  
 
12. Yes; the amount charged depends on the type of product.  
 
13. There is no deposit requirement associa ted with the issue of licences.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Licences are valid for one year; their validity may be extended.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence.  
 
16. They are not transferable.  
 
17. No.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Before filing an application for an import licence, importers are required to apply to the 
competent authority for an inspection and sanitary certification visit of the establishments wishing 
to export to Cuba. (MINAG, Directorate of Anima l Health) and for registration of the products in 
question (MINSAP, INHEM Food Register).  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
3  MINISTRY OF THE ARME D FORCES  
3.1   National Office of Hydrography and Geodesy (ONHG)  
Outline of systems  
1. Licences for the importation and extractio n of satellite global positioning systems (GPS).  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Satellite global positioning systems (GPS) used for geodesic and hydrographic purposes and other 
similar activities.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. Licensing does not restrict either the quantity or the value of imports. Its purposes are described 
in the fourth and fifth Whereas paragraphs of Decree No.  269 of 9 March 2000 on space radio 
communications services.  
 
5. Decree No . 269, mentioned above, and Resolution No.  90 of the Minister of the Revolutionary 
Armed Forces (MINFAR) of 13 February 2001 implementing Decree No. 269. Licensing is mandatory, 
except for natural persons who import the products for personal use, e.g. cloc ks and watches, 
pagers, and outdoor orientation devices, in which case the goods must be declared at customs upon 
arrival in the country. Licences are required for high -precision equipment imported for use in 
geodesic and hydrographic activities requiring the determination of precise coordinates. The granting 
of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation of products subject 
to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government to abolish th e 
system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable. Imports of GPS equipment are not subject to any restrictions in terms of quantity 
or value.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted b y a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the le vel of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  In this case, three months before importation. In cases where imports have been effected and 
have arrived in port owing to inadvertency, the matter is examined on a case by case basis, 
every effort being made to ensure that the economic implications for the importer are kept to 
a minimum.  
 
(b)  Yes, wherever possible. In cases where it is known in advance that the licence will not be used 
within the set time, it is recommended that a request for its renewal be made to the  ONHG.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations of this sort.  
 
(d)  Licence applications are processed solely by the ONHG, which, if necessary, consults the 
MININT, the MINFAR and other central government agencies (OACE) before issuing or refu sing 
the import licence.  
 
8. Licence applications may be refused if the GPS equipment involved is to be used to measure 
coordinates in areas for which the recipients of the equipment do not have authorization. Applications 
may also be refused if they have been submitted by an importer whose corporate purpose does not 
justify the use of GPS technology. In all cases, applicants are notified of the reasons for the refusal. 
Decree No.  269 and Resolution No.  90 do not provide for a right of appeal.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Legal persons are eligible to apply for an import licence. In the case of natural persons, the 
justification given for importing the technology is analysed on a case by case basis.  
Documentational and other requirements  for application for licence  
10. Applications must be addressed to the Director of the ONHG and must contain the following 
information:  
 
-  date;  
-  name of requesting entity;  
-  body to which it belongs;  
-  address of requesting entity;  
-  resolution esta blishing the requesting entity;  
-  corporate purpose of the requesting entity;  
-  person responsible for importation (natural person accountable to the entity requesting the 
licence);  
-  geographical area in which the equipment will be used;  
-  technical t actical data concerning the equipment (including photos, wherever possible);  
-  importing entity;  
-  applicant details (name, surname and position) and signature.  
 
11. The import licence, signed by the Director of the ONHG.  
 
12. Import licences are free of charge.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment requirement is associated with the issue of licences.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Licences are valid for 90 calendar d ays and may be extended by submitting a new application to 
the ONHG explaining the reasons why the importation did not take place in the period approved 
under the first licence issued.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non-utilization . 
 
16. They are not transfe rable.  
 
17. There are no other conditions.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. No other administrative procedures are required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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4  MINISTRY OF THE INTE RIOR (MININT)  
4.1  Protection Directorate  
Outline of systems  
1. Import licences are required to show that the security devices used to ensure the safety and 
protection of goods and people have been examined by means of appropriate procedures and that 
their quality meets the requirements of both the manufacturer and the  body that regulates their  use. 
Licences are granted to properly established Cuban legal persons.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Analogue and digital closed -circuit  television (CCTV), cameras, lenses, sequencers, movement 
controllers, quads, multiplexers, matrices, video and audio signal transmitting equipment, 
accessories, components and parts, and image processing and management software.  
Access control systems (A CS) of the following types: magnetic card, proximity, code, voice 
recognition, hand geometry, fingerprint, and retina scanner; accessories, components and parts, 
and information processing and management software.  
 
Intruder alarm systems. Central alarm un its; intruder detectors of the following types: magnetic 
contact, electrical contact, capacitive, radio frequency, infra-red, passive infra-red, ultrasonic, 
pressure, vibration, seismic, temperature, and laser. Acoustic and visual signalling apparatus.  
 
Alarm receiving centres and remote security system management platforms. Mechanical push button 
security locks. Mechanical security locks.  Electronic security locks. Time control locks. High security 
padlocks. Time locks. Reinforced doors. Reinforced vault d oors. Fireproof vault doors. Emergency 
vault doors. Explosion resistant doors. Fire doors. Reinforced windows and glass. Bullet proof steel 
armour plating. Day and night deposit boxes. ATMs. Panel reinforced rooms or vaults. Data storage 
safes. Security do ors. Value transfers. Counter safes and anti-theft boxes. Gun racks. Safety deposit 
boxes for bank vaults. Code reading key copying machines. Master key systems including codifiers 
and decodifiers with software programme. Skeleton keys. High -security safes , European  Standard 
grades 1, 2, 3 and 4. High -security safes, grades TL15, TL30, TL15X6, TL30X6, TRTL15X6, TRTL30X6 
and TXTL60. High -security coded locks and keys. Mechanical combination locks, groups 1, 1R and 
2, for use with safes and vault doors. Elect ronic combination locks. Electromechanical  locks and 
keys. Electronically controlled code operated safes. Encoded electro mechanic transponder systems 
for motor vehicle security. Non -copiable security cylinders.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any  country in the world.  
 
4. Licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity of imports; its purpose is to prevent the entry of 
security technologies of dubious quality which do not meet the requirements for their use and which 
are incompatible with the s ystems used in the country.  
 
5. Decree -Law No. 186/98 on the Security and Physical Protection System, Chapter II, Section 1, 
concerning the competent authority, Article 3(e), (g), (h) and (j); Resolution No. 2/2001 - 
Regulations to Decree -Law No. 186/98, Articles 124, 125, 126, 127 and 128. The granting of licence s 
is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation of products subject to licensing 
to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government to abolish the sys tem without 
legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case. The Protection Directorate has 15 working days from  the receipt of the 
application within which to issue its decision. Under exceptional circumstances, the period for 
examining the application may be shortened at the Directorate's discretion.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 25 - 
  (b)  A licence cannot be granted immediately on request.  
 
(c)  There are no such limitations.  
 
(d)  Consideration of licences is effected only by the Protection Directorate of the Ministry of the 
Interior (MININT).  
 
8. An application for an import licence may be refused in the event of infringement of Article 124 of 
Resolution No.  2/2001. The applicant is notified of the reasons for the refusal. Applicants have no 
right of appeal to the Protection Directorate of the MININT. Licences for non-approved  technologies 
can be issued only when the import is to be used as a sam ple for the type approval  process.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importers must be registered in the National Register for Exporters and Importers of the Chamber 
of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The information required in applications is that specified in Article 128 of Resolution No.  2/2001:  
 
-  importer details;  
-  security devices to be imported;  
-  make and model;  
-  supplier;  
-  import destination . 
 
11. Import licence.  
 
12. There is no fee or charge.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity of a licence is not determined.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence.  
 
16. Import licences are not transferable between importers.  
 
17. The product must be approved by the accredited national entity (ACERPROT) on the basis of 
compliance with the technical and environmental standards in force in the country.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. No other ad ministrative procedures are required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
4.2  FIRE PROTECTION AGENCY  
Outline of systems  
1. The Fire Protection Agency (APCI ) was created pursuant to Resolution No. 5 of August 2003 of 
the Minister of the Interior with exclusive responsibility to conduct the certification and 
homologation, in accordance with the relevant technical requirements, of fire protection equipment 
manu factured in, imported into and/or marketed in Cuba. The APCI is responsible for organizing and 
implementing, as appropriate, all activities relating to the evaluation of equipment of this type 
intended for distribution for use in Cuba. The agency's service s activity is rooted in its corporate 
purpose, as updated in Resolution No. 244 of March 2014 of the Ministry of the Economy and 
Planning.  
 
This procedure seeks to ascertain that fire protection equipment complies with the technical 
requirements set forth in the national and international rules in force. To our knowledge, no other G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 26 - 
  country has an import licensing system with this objective, with all the flexibility that such a process 
requires.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The homologation of fire s afety products encompasses all of the theoretical and practical 
evaluation activities that enable compliance with the fire protection requirements laid down in 
national and international technical standards to be determined and/or the recognition, on the b asis 
of an evaluation of documentation and/or practical testing, of the certification and/or test report 
issued by a recognized body.  
Products are categorized by specialized function.  
 
Categories:  
 
A. Electrical equipment.  
B. Ventilation equipment, heating  equipment, flammable liquids and combustible gases.  
C. Fire alarm systems and similar products.  
D. Fire protection equipment.  
E. Fire barriers.  
F. Construction materials.  
G. Fire resistance.  
 
An applicant who presents a product that corresponds to one tha t has already been homologated by 
the APCI (same producer, brand and characteristics, but a different supplier if the applicant is not 
the manufacturer) must still demonstrate, by means of documentation, samples, etc., that it is 
indeed the exact same prod uct. An official certificate will then be issued and the new product 
recognized and included in the list of homologated and approved products. The period of validity will 
correspond to that of a new product.  
 
Where the product presented has the same tradem ark as a product that has already been 
homologated but was produced in another country, it will be subject to the homologation and 
approval process in accordance with the corresponding specific characteristics.  
 
LIST OF PRODUCTS SUBJECT TO HOMOLOGATION AND  APPROVAL AND REQUIRING ASSESSMENT 
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION  
 
Fire resistance  
 
-  Floor-ceiling designs - Concrete with cellular steel floor units (S -Deck).  
-  Floor-ceiling designs - Concrete with steel floor units.  
-  Floor-ceiling designs - Concrete and steel joists.  
-  Floor-ceiling designs - Reinforced concrete.  
-  Floor-ceiling designs - Wood joist assemblies.  
-  Beam designs for floor -ceiling assemblies.  
-  Roof-ceiling designs.  
-  Beam designs for roof -ceiling ass emblies.  
-  Wall and partition designs.  
-  Column designs.  
-  Interior wall system designs.  
-  Exterior wall system designs.  
 
Construction materials  
 
-  Air-conditioning systems and components thereof: ducts, filters, connectors, dampers, 
acoustic material , sealants, adhesives.  
-  Construction materials: Mineral wool and insulation blankets, laminated wall panels, 
composite wall panels, floor boards, wall coatings and finishes, floor coatings and finishes, 
fire-retardant coatings, spray -applied mineral wool , insulation, pipes, cladding materials, 
doors and gates, fittings and hardware for escape route doors, fire doors and emergency exit 
doors, fittings and hardware for fire -resistant lift doors, fire -resistant windows, glass blocks. 
Decorative fabrics for o ther purposes, decorative false ceilings, etc.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  Fire barrier systems and components thereof  
 
- Intumescent paint (primer, undercoat and topcoat) for metal.  
- Fire-retardant paints and varnishes (primary stain, varnish finish coat) for wood.  
- Fire-resistant mortar.  
- Fire-resistant filler.  
- Spray -applied mineral wool.  
- Ceramic tiles.  
- Fire-resistant silicone.  
- Fire-resistant clamps.  
- Fire-resistant grilles.  
- Fire dampers.  
- Fire doors.  
- Fire-resistant windows.  
- Fire-resistant drywall panels.  
- Mineral wool panels.  
 
Fire protection equipment  
 
- Portable fire extinguishers: Water, water with additives, foam, gas, powder, etc.  
- Manually transportable fire extinguishers: Water, water with additives, foam, gas, powde r, 
etc. 
- Automatic fire extinguishers: Water with additives, foam, gas, powder, etc.  
- Fire extinguishers: Spare charges, fire extinguisher cabinets, boxes and covers.  
- Fire-extinguishing systems with dry extinguishing agents: Powder, etc.  
- Fire-extingu ishing systems with wet extinguishing agents: Water with additives, potassium 
acetate and potassium chloride, etc.  
- Gaseous fire -extinguishing systems: CO2, argon, nitrogen, FM -200, FE -13, NOVEC 1230, etc.  
- Water -mist and water -spray extinguishing system s. 
- Low-, medium - and high -expansion foam extinguishing systems.  
- Compressed air foam extinguishing systems.  
- Fittings, components and spare charges for the above systems. Nozzles and diffusers. Support 
brackets and fasteners.  
- Fire-fighting pumps and pump units.  
- Pipes for supply networks and water -based fire protection systems.  
- Control instruments and accessories for fire protection systems.  
- Hydrants, equipment cabinets, fire hose reels (FHRs), hoses, nozzles, foam generators, 
proportioners, mixers, monitors.  
- Sprinklers, fittings and components for sprinkler systems. Nozzles and diffusers. Support 
assemblies and fasteners, etc.  
- Valves: Check valves for sprinkler systems, non -return, with actuator, etc.  
- Personal protective equipment: Jackets, helmets, boots, vests, blankets  
- Extinguishing agents.  
 
Fire alarm systems and similar products  
 
- Intruder detection and alarm systems with fire -detection capability.  
- Fire detection and alarm system: Conventional, addressable, analo gue, extinguishing, gas, 
etc. 
- Remote supervision and monitoring devices.  
- Notification and alarm devices: Audible alarms, visual alarms, visual and audible alarms, 
loudspeakers, other accessories.  
- Initiating devices and accessories therefor: Flame, he at, smoke and combined detectors, 
detector bases, manual pull stations/call points.  
- Flame detectors, heat detectors, manual pull stations/call points and other devices for 
classified zones. Anti -explosion equipment (explosion -proof, intrinsic safety, in creased safety, 
oil-immersion).  
- Gas detectors.  
- Monitoring devices: Pressure switches, flow switches, position sensors, level sensors, flow 
sensors, etc.  
- Control and activation devices: Relay bases, relay outputs, etc.  
- Remote modules: Monitor module s, control modules, isolator modules, etc.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  System integration computer programmes.  
- Computer programmes for in -system device programming.  
- Electrical cables for detection systems.  
 
Electrical equipment  
 
- Electric conductors: Cables, wires, braided wires, strip, etc.  
- Conduits and fittings Tubing, cable trays, inspection chambers, covers, seals, etc.  
- Emergency lighting and signage: Independent light sources with or without signage, safety 
decals, pictograms, etc., whether or not photoluminescent.  
- Overcurrent protection: Thermal, magnetic, fuses, combined, etc.  
- Surge protection: Data surge protectors, AC surge protectors.  
- Arc striking devices.  
- Passive protection system devices: Franklin lightning rods, Faraday cages, down c onductors, 
electrodes, fasteners, lightning -strike counters, etc.  
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
4. Licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity of imports; its purpose is to prevent the entry of 
security technolog ies of dubious quality which do not meet the requirements for their use and which 
are incompatible with the systems used in the country, and of materials and substances that pose a 
fire safety risk.  
 
5. Technical Communications Nos. 1 and 4 of 2012 and No.  2 of 2013 of the Head of the Fire and 
Rescue Service of the Republic of Cuba. Licensing is mandatory. The granting of licence s is statutorily 
required. The legislation does not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to 
administrative discr etion and it is not possible for the Government to abolish the system without 
legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be ob tained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each in dividual case. The APCI has 30 working days from the receipt of the application within 
which to issue its decision, provided that the certification requirements are clearly defined, 
substantiated and understood. An application for certification by the impo rting entities is a 
pre-requisite for entering into a purchase contract.  
 
(b)  A licence cannot be granted immediately upon request.  
 
(c)  There are no such limitations.  
 
(d)  Consideration of applications and granting of certification are effected solely by the Fire 
Protection Agency of the Ministry of the Interior.  
 
8. An application for registration may be refused where:  
- the equipment in question is not fire protection equipment under the criteria referred to above;  
- the documentation or samples deli vered by the applicant do not satisfy the requirements;  
- the equipment is shown to have been subject to fraud or alteration.  
 Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Legal persons, such as the importers, producers, marketers and suppliers of such equipment in 
national territory, as well as the Cuban, joint or foreign enterprises that use the equipment and are 
authorized to import it for their own use, are eligible to engage in these procedures.  
 
Documentational and other requireme nts for application for licence  
10. Applications must be submitted in writing and include a list of products, contact information for 
the manufacturers, full contact details of the supplier for Cuba, and the full contact details of the G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 29 - 
  certification applic ant if other than the supplier. The documentation listed hereunder is also required 
in the context of the application process.  
 
An evaluation requires submission of the following documents, irrespective of the nature or 
destination of the product:  
 
- techn ical specifications of the product;  
- official certificate issued by a recognized body attesting to the fire protection and safety 
characteristics and/or rating of the product;  
- report on the tests and trials conducted on the product by the aforementioned  body, or by an 
accredited laboratory and the results of which are recognized by the said body;  
- physical samples of the product (a minimum of one). In the case of certain products that, for 
the above reasons, require additional tests or trials, the supplier will be specifically requested 
to provide the requisite number of samples;  
- other supplementary documentation that provides further information on the product and the 
manufacturer (depending on the product type).  
 
11. A valid certificate and the evaluation report for each product imported.  
 
12. Certification application costs are established in accordance with the product and its technical 
characteristics.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity of certificates is a s follows:  
- Homologated products: 5 years.  
- Approved products: 5 years.  
- Approved products for exclusive one -time use: without a period of validity.  
 
The holder will receive a renewal notice three months prior to the end of the aforementioned period 
of validity and the expiry of the certificate. The certificate may be renewed by following a similar 
procedure as for the initial application.  
 
15. No, but the certificate issued only accredits the specific product that was subject to  the process 
and under no circumstances may endorse another product even if it does possess similar 
characteristics. Inappropriate use of a certificate could result in its withdrawal.  
 
Similarly, a product may also lose its homologated or approved status i f, during its period of validity, 
non-compliant features are detected and make the withdrawal of certification advisable. The 
certificate issued validates the technical guarantee and endorses the product for use and marketing 
in the country.  
 
16. Certifica tes are not transferable between suppliers in the country.  
 
17. No.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. No.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
5  MINISTRY OF PUBLIC H EALTH (MINSAP)  
5.1   National Directorate of Medicines and Medical Technologies, Pharmaceutical Services 
Departme nt, Control Unit for Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Other Similar 
Substances (DNMTM)  
Outline of systems  
1. Cuba is party to the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961, the Convention on Psychotropic 
Substances, 1971, and the Convention agai nst Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 30 - 
  Substances, 1988. By virtue of the implementation of the international trade control related 
provisions of these Conventions, in Cuba imports and exports of narcotic drugs, psychotropic 
substances, pre cursors and basic chemicals are subject to an import licensing system which is 
supplemented by a planning system covering medical, scientific and other legitimate needs, and a 
group of administrative measures aimed at preventing the possible diversion of t hese substances 
towards unlawful channels at any stage of their transit.  
 
All national entities (legal persons) operating with these substances are entered in a central register 
at the Control Unit for Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Other Simi lar Substances, which 
is the drug control department of the National Directorate of Medicines and Medical Technologies. 
These entities must comply with the following requirements: be entered in the Register of Importers 
and Exporters of the Chamber of Comm erce of Cuba and the Central Register of the Customs General 
of the Republic, be legally constituted, with a corporate purpose covering import and/or export 
activities, and be registered with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment; and the 
substances with which they operate must be included in the list of goods approved for the entity.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Narcotic drugs regulated by the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961, psychotropic 
substances regulated by the Conven tion on Psychotropic Substances, 1971, and precursors and basic 
chemicals regulated by the Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic 
Substances, 1988.  
 
Purposes of licensing: To comply with the obligations deriving from the above-mentioned  
international conventions, to prevent the diversion of these substances from their lawful circulation 
channels, and to ensure that medical and scientific needs are met.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. Licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. Limits on quantities for 
import are consistent with the estimates system established by the international treaties in which 
all member States participate. The estimates system is admin istered by the International Narcotics 
Control Board (INCB) and aims to meet legitimate needs for these substances while preventing illicit 
trafficking and diversion from lawful international trade channels.  
 
The estimates system administered by the United  Nations INCB works well and obtains excellent 
results, and therefore does not affect imports: on the contrary, it contributes to orderly import 
activity at international level.  
 
5. Ministerial Resolution No.  58 of 1967 "Standards and Procedures for the Co ntrol of  Narcotic 
Drugs", in accordance with the provisions of the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961.  
 
Ministerial Resolution No.  72 of 1990, which implements the provisions of the Convention on 
Psychotropic Substances, 1971.  
 
Ministerial Resoluti on No.  67 of 1996 "Regulations for the Control of Precursors and Basic or Essential 
Chemicals", which implements the provisions of the Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic 
Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 1988.  
 
The granting of licence s is stat utorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation of 
products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government 
to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6.  
 
I.  Once officially registered, the importer is automatically notified of the formalities to be 
completed when submitting an application for an import licence, and of the statutory rules 
and procedures.  
 
Information relating to the approved estimates for the countr y is officially published by the 
INCB and distributed to each country in printed form. It is also available on the INCB  website. G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 31 - 
  Once the estimates are known, the quotas are allocated and the importers so informed as of 
January each year.  
 
There are no exc eptions or derogations from the licensing requirement. Anyone operating with 
the above -mentioned  substances is required to obtain an import licence.  
 
II.  Import quota size is determined on a yearly basis. The approved quotas are officially published 
by the INCB. Licences are valid from their date of issue until 31  December each year.  
 
III.  In the case of the above -mentioned  substances which we are responsible for controlling, their 
final destination and end use must be stated each time an import licence i s requested. There 
are also various levels of State supervision which make it possible to ascertain the lawfulness 
of such transactions.  
 
IV.  At any time of the year, although it is recommended that import licence applications be 
submitted, preferably, during the first, second and third quarters of the year.  
 
V.  The processing period for import licence applications is 15 working days as of the date when 
the application is submitted.  
 
VI.  Not applicable. This depends on the period of time es tablished by the exporting country's 
competent authority for the granting of the export licence once the corresponding import 
licence has been received.  
 
VII.  Consideration of import licence applications is effected by the Control Unit for Narcotic Drugs,  
Psychotropic Substances and Other Similar Substances of the MINSAP, which is registered 
with the United Nations as the competent national authority for the purposes of the 
implementation of the above mentioned international treaties regarding the monitori ng and 
control of drugs for medical and scientific use and chemical precursors. Where there is any 
suspicion of illegal activities and a more in -depth investigation is required, the competent 
authorities are notified so that the applications can be examine d by the National Counter 
Narcotics Directorate of the Ministry of the Interior.  
 
VIII. All applications are dealt with on a first -come, first -served basis and in accordance with 
established priorities. New importers are directly incorporated into the cont rol system and are 
issued licences once they have met the established legal requirements.  
 
IX.  This is not applicable in the case of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors.  
The licensing system applies to imports and exports alike and is m andatory both for the 
countries in which the goods originate and for those for which the goods are destined, in 
accordance with the requirements of the above -mentioned conventions.  
 
X.  Under the above -mentioned  treaties, export permits must be endorsed by  the competent 
national authority of the importing country and subsequently returned to the competent 
national authority of the exporting country. Cuba is also party to the pre export notification 
mechanism, which is applied to products classified as precu rsors and basic chemicals.  
 
XI.  Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible,  they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 
(b)  Yes, it can, provided that the request is duly justified and  the established requirements have 
been met.  
 
(c)  Not applicable.  
 
(d)  Consideration of import licence applications is effected solely by the Control Unit for Narcotic 
Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Other Similar Substances of the MINSAP, which is G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 32 - 
  registered with the United Nations as the competent national authority for the purpose of  the 
implementation of the above mentioned international treaties in respect of the monitoring and 
control of drugs for medical and scientific use and chemical precursor s.  
 
8. An import licence application may be refused if it is shown to fall short of the established legal 
formalities and technical requirements, or if there is any indication of a risk to the country. Wherever 
possible, the applicant is directly notified  of the reasons for the refusal.   
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importers must be entered in the Central Register for Importers and Exporters at the Control Unit 
for Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Other Similar Substances of the MINSAP.  
 
Any legal entity may register provided that it is already register ed in the National Register of 
Importers and Exporters of the Chamber of Commerce of Cuba and the Central Customs Register of 
the Customs General of the Republic.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Applications for impor t licences must contain the following information:  
 
- name and legal domicile of the importer and exporter;  
- the entity's registration number in the National Register for the Monitoring of Controlled 
Substances;  
- telephone number, fax number and e-mail address of the importer and exporter;  
- generic name of the narcotic drug, psychotropic substance or substance with similar effect;  
- International Nonproprietary Name (INN), if any;  
- Harmonized system code ; 
- quantity of product with measurement u nits expressed in letters and numbers;  
- product d escription : presentation, packaging, pharmaceutical form and dose of the product in 
the case of pharmaceutical preparations;  
- international sales contract number, where appropriate;  
- declaration as to th e use and final destination of the substance, identifying the client or the 
user of the substance;  
- in the case of imports of pharmaceutical preparations, the registration number issued by the 
Centre for State Control of Medicinal Product Quality;  
- anticipated date of arrival of goods in the case of imports or anticipated date of  departure in 
the case of exports;  
- authorized customs points where the goods declaration will be presented upon arrival in or 
departure from the country. In the case of exports , the customs entry point in the importing 
country must be stated;  
- date of application ; 
- signature of the director or manager of the requesting entity and official stamp ; 
- in the case of exports, the import permit issued by the importing country's comp etent national 
authority for drug control must also be presented.  
 
11. The export permit issued by the exporting country's competent national authority for drug 
control.  
 
12. Not applicable.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Licences are valid from the date on which they are issued until 31  December of each year. They 
cannot be extended. In the event of expiry, a new application must be submitted.  
 
15. There are no penalties for the non-utilization  of a licence or a portion of licence, or if the licence 
expires or is suspended, as a licence is required for each individual transaction, i.e. each time goods 
cross the border.  
 
16. Import licences are not transferable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 33 - 
  17. No other conditions are attached to the issue of a licence, unless an o fficial investigation or 
official supervision is required.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. No other administrative procedures are required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
5.2  National Institute of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Microbiology (INHEM)  
Outline of systems  
1. The import licensing system is regulated by Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) Resolutions 
Nos. 64/97, 128/98 and 275/2003 and the relevant Regulations and Indicators Handbook, which 
establishes the list of goods subject to import licen sing. The licensing system is administered by the 
Department of Sanitary Registration and Control of the INHEM.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Imports of all registered products are subject to automatic licensing during the three years of 
their cert ification; imports of new products applying for first -time sanitary registration are subject 
to non -automatic licensing.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. Automatic import licences are used for statistical purposes whil e non -automatic import licence s 
are used to administer the import restrictions applied in accordance with current sanitary legislation.  
 
5. The sanitary licensing and sanitary registration systems are statutorily required.  The systems may 
be suspended when deemed appropriate.  A notice to that effect is published in the Official Journal. 
The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation of 
products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government 
to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained  prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individu al case. In this case, licence applications must be submitted at least one week 
prior to importation. Licences may be obtained within a shorter time -limit as well as for goods 
arriving at port without a licence.  
 
(b)  In certain circumstances, a pre -arrang ed licence can be granted immediately on request 
subject to detention of the goods at destination.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which the licence application may 
be submitted or the importation effected.  
 
(d)  The impo rter only has to approach one administrative body about an application.  
 
8. None.  The applicant is notified in writing of the reasons for the refusal.  In the event of refusal to 
issue a licence, the applicant has the right of appeal to the competent author ity. 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for licences.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. A sample application form is available for consultation in the Secretariat.  Importers are required 
to submit the following documents with their applications: contract with the supplier, technical G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 34 - 
  specifications of the product, required product certifications, sample of no commercial value of each 
product for the r equired laboratory analyses, and product labels.  
 
11. Upon importation, an importer is required to submit the approved import licence or a copy 
thereof.  
 
12. Payment is required both for sanitary registration and for laboratory analyses of the samples 
that applicants are required to submit. The amount varies according to the tariff applicable to the 
product.  
 
13. There is an advance payment requirement associated with the issue of licences in accordance 
with the established rate.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. A licence is valid for three years from the date of issue.  The period of validity may be extended 
by submitting a new application for the product, together with the related documentation.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization  of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable between importers.  
 
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. The Health Registration Authority reserves the right, wh ere it deems it relevant and always in 
conjunction with the State Health Inspectorate, to conduct a technical visit to the producer, marketer 
or controlling entity prior to issuing the licence or during the period of validity of registration in order 
to es tablish the degree to which the products comply with the requirements to which they are 
subject.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
5.3  Centre for State Control of Medicines and Medical Equipment and Devices (CECMED)  
5.3.1    Control of imports of medicines for human use, medical equipment and devices.  
Outline of systems  
1. Regulation by import control is the means employed by the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) to 
prevent the commercial importation of medicines for human use that are of questionable quality or 
efficacy or that  have been adulterated or tampered with, and the use of which may pose a risk to 
people's health.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system covers medicines for human use, medical equipment and devices.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. Licensing is intended to prevent the commercial importation of medicines for human use that are 
of questionable quality or efficacy or that have been adulterated or tampered with, and the use of 
which may pose a risk to p eople's health.  
 
5. MINSAP Ministerial Resolution No.  65 of 2003 and CECMED  Resolution No.  83 of 2003. The 
procedure is mandatory for the covered products. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. 
The legislation does not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrative 
discretion and it is not po ssible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative 
approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 35 - 
  7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the da te of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case. In this case, an application for an import certificate for medicines for 
human use may be filed before or after the shipment of products covered by a contract,  at 
the applicant's discretion, by submission of the appropriate form drawn up to that end listing 
one or more products, provided they are all part of the same contract and shipment. The 
CECMED has up to five working days to issue the permit following rece ipt of the application.  
 
(b)  The prescribed processing time is short: a certificate is usually issued in less than five working 
days and where necessary or in a health service emergency the process can be speeded up.  
 
(c)  Not applicable, a certificate is  delivered for each individual shipment , upon request . 
 
(d)  Only the CEDMED can approve applications.  
 
8. Application s concerning medicines are  refused if the medicines do not have sanitary authorization; 
if the expiry date or shelf life of medicines for human use is less than one year following entry into 
Cuba; or if medicines for human use are not labelled as required in Spanish (including the patient 
information leaflet), regardless of whether or not the relevant information appears in another 
language,  in accordance with the current requirements governing applications for entry in and 
renewal of and amendments to entries in the Register of medicines for human use. The applicant is 
notified of the reasons for the refusal.  
Eligibility of importers to appl y for licence  
9. Importers authorized/accredited to import medicines for human use.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Form issued by the authority.  
 
11. Import certificate application on the relevant official form (orig inal and one copy).  
 
-  Document attesting to the quality of each of the batches of medicine included in the import 
application, such as: copy of analysis certificates from the original manufacturer or other 
national or foreign establishments or laboratori es, quality certificate or other document in 
which the supplier assumes responsibility for the quality of the batches;  
-  Samples or photocopies of the labels on the packing materials for medicines for human use 
where the information is not in Spanish (in cluding the patient information leaflet) for  the 
exceptions provided for.  
-  Copy(ies) of the letter(s) in which the receiving establishment(s) accept the import of 
medicine(s) for human use, the expiry date of which is less than one year upon entry into t he 
country and stating that they are aware of the shelf life(ves) and that the remaining shelf -
life(ves) and quantity(ies) of product are such that they can be used prior to their expiry.  
 
The CECMED reserves the right to request additional information of any kind where it deems it 
relevant to do so.  
 
12. The procedure costs CUP 150.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. An import certificate is issued for each shipment and covers the product(s) contained in the 
shipment in line with the properties and quantities specified in the certificate. The certificate is valid 
for up to six months.  
 
No extension is possible; under the relevant regulations, when medicines for human use covered by 
a contract are received in two or more separate shipme nts, a new import certificate must be 
requested for each shipment of the amount outstanding given that the same document cannot be 
approved twice, nor can it be subject to corrections or clarifications that may interfere with its proper 
interpretation.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 36 - 
   
15. Not applicable.  
 
16. Not applicable.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. No administrative procedures are required prior to importation; however, as explained above, a 
medicine must be registered before it enters the country.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
5.3.2   Control of cross -border movement of samples of biological material  
Outline of systems  
1. The control of cross -border movement of samples of biological material is the means employed 
by the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) to ensure complianc e with the national and international 
standards and provisions in force on the movement into or out of the country of samples of biological 
material with the aim of preventing risks to health.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. It covers any specimen or  portion of cells and their components, tissues, organs and biological 
liquids (serum, plasma, blood, saliva, tears, urine, sweat, semen, nasopharyngeal and vaginal 
exudates, and cerebrospinal fluid), microorganisms  and other elements that may pose a risk to 
human health.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. Not applicable.  
 
5. MINSAP  Ministerial Resolution No.  132 of 2004. Health Protection Regulation Bureau (BRPS) 
Resolution No.  8 of 2007. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not 
leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrativ e discretion and it is not 
possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable, there is no restriction as to quantity or value; this is a health monitoring system.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case. In this case, the application must be made before the movement is under 
way and upon receipt of notification of ship ment; however, if necessary, an application may 
be made with the product at Customs.  
 
(b)  Yes, as stated above, when the product is at Customs the person concerned can liaise with 
CECMED to obtain a licence as quickly as possible provided that the require ments have been 
satisfied.  
 
(c)  No. 
 
(d)  Not under this system; however  products of this type are subject to regulation by other bodies 
and sometimes a single product requires more than one licence (CITMA, IMV) before it can be 
removed from Customs.  
 
8. The circumstances under which an application may be refused are within the ordinary criteria - if 
the product in question poses a risk to health or does not satisfy the conditions laid down for its 
transportation.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 37 - 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for lice nce 
9. In this case, a health licence can be applied for by natural or legal persons.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Form issued by the authority.  
 
11. Relevant official application form.  
 
-  Approval of the MINSAP CITMA Committee for research projects. For research projects that 
involve the movement on separate occasions of samples of biological material that have 
received prior approval, the initial licence granted must be referred to (licence number).  
-  Technical  report from the Haematology and Immunology Institute for samples of bone 
marrow.  
-  Notification from the Vice Ministry of Health Care for samples for clinical diagnostic purposes.  
-  For human DNA samples, official notification from the CNGM stating tha t the control samples 
have been deposited.  
 
12. Not applicable.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity is three months; if the material in question has not arrived within that 
time, an application for an extension can be made by re submitting the documentation (form).  
 
15. Not applicable.  
 
16. Not applicable.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. If the samples are part of a research project then the project must have been approved by the 
MINSAP CITMA Comm ittee, which requires a number of licences from other bodies.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
5.3.3   Import of raw materials, medicines,  diagnostic devices and cosmetics of animal 
origin  
Outline of systems  
1. Raw materials, medicines for human use, diagnostic devices, cosm etics and items for personal or 
domestic use of animal origin or containing components of animal origin cannot be imported without 
the corresponding import licence issued by the Centre for State Control of Medicinal Product Quality 
or the Health Registrati on, Control and Quality Department, as appropriate.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system covers raw materials, medicines for human use, diagnostic devices, 
cosmetics and items for personal or domestic use of animal origin or containin g components of 
animal origin.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. Licensing is intended to prevent the entry into Cuban territory of raw materials, medicines for 
human use, diagnostic devices, cosmetics and items for per sonal or domestic use of animal origin 
or containing components of animal origin that are capable of infecting humans with transmissible 
animal diseases.  
 
5. Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Public Health Joint Resolution No.  2/2001 and Health 
Protection Regulation Bureau (BRPS) Resolution No.  8 of 2007. The procedure is mandatory for the 
covered products. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 38 - 
  designation of products subject to licensing to administrati ve discretion and it is not possible for the 
Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable. There are no restrictions as to the quantity or value of the medicines; licences are 
awarded strictly on health grounds. The regulations and procedures are published on the authority's 
website at: http://www.cecmed.cu .  
 
7. Where there is no quantitative limit on the importation of a product or on imports from a particular 
country:  
 
(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the da te of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case. In this case, the application for an import certificate for medicines for 
human use may be filed before the shipment of products covered by a contract by submi ssion 
of the appropriate official form drawn up to that end, listing one or more products, provided 
they are all part of the same contract and shipment. The CECMED has up to five days to issue 
the licence following receipt of the application. The prescribe d processing time is short: a 
certificate is usually issued in less than five working days and where necessary or in a health 
service emergency the process can be speeded up.  
 
(b)  Not applicable, the certificate is delivered for each individual shipment.  
 
(c)  No. 
 
(d)  Depending on the product, applications are considered by CECMED or, in the case of 
cosmetics, by the Health Registration, Control and Quality Department at the INHA.  
 
8. An application may be refused where products are deemed to pose a high  health risk or are from 
high risk countries. The applicant is notified of the reasons for a refusal. No appeal is provided for in 
the regulations. However, depending on the reasons for the refusal, the applicant must demonstrate 
that the product does not pose a risk to health.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Authorized/accredited importers may import medicines.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Form issued by the authority.  
 
11. Import Certificate App lication on the relevant official form (original and two copies).  
 
-  Certificates from the official veterinary services of the country of origin containing the 
information set out in the Third Paragraph of and in Annex 2 to Ministry of Agriculture and 
Ministry of Public Health Joint Resolution No.  2/2001.  
-  Copies of the analysis certificates for each of the product batches included in the application.  
-  Express permission or authorization from the Ministry of Public Health for medicines and 
cosmetics th at are unregistered or for which no provisional marketing licence has been issued.  
 
 In this case, the following information must also be submitted:  
 
-  Product data:  
o generic name;  
o trade name;  
o pharmaceutical form and strength (for medicines);  
o product type (for cosmetics and items for personal or domestic use);  
o presentation;  
o manufacturer;  
o country;  
o marketing entity.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 39 - 
  -  Quality specifications or technical standard applicable to the product.  
-  Assessment of suppliers and reasoning behind the cho ice made.  
-  Batch release certificate issued by the regulatory authority of the country of origin.  
 
Express permission or authorization from the Ministry of Public Health for raw materials used 
in the manufacture of medicines or cosmetics that do not have  sanitary authorization.  
In this case, the following information must also be submitted:  
- Product data:  
o generic name;  
o trade name;  
o physical state;  
o presentation;  
o manufacturer;  
o country;  
o marketing entity.  
 
- Quality specifications or technical standard applicable to the product.  
- Assessment of suppliers and reasoning behind the choice made.  
- Batch release certificate issued by the medicines regulatory authority of the country of 
origin.  
 
For products undergoing research and development, the im port licence application must be 
supplemented either upon or prior to submission by an explanation from the research entity as to 
the use of the raw materials or the product in question.  
 
12. Not applicable.  
 
13. The procedure costs CUP 150.  
Conditions of  licensing  
14. Up to six months. When goods covered by a contract are received in two or more separate 
shipments, a new authorization must be requested for each shipment of the amount outstanding 
given that the same document cannot be approved twice, nor c an it be subject to corrections or 
clarifications that may interfere with its proper interpretation. A licence cannot be extended.  
 
15. No. The penalties provided for relate to the possibility of unlicensed hazardous products entering 
the country.  
 
16. Not  applicable.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
6  MINISTRY OF LABOUR A ND SOCIAL SECURITY ( MTSS)  
6.1  Centre for the Certification of Personal Protective Items and Equipment (CCEPP)  
Outline of systems  
1. This administrative procedure seeks to ascertain that the personal protective equipment used by 
workers complies with the technical requirements set forth in the national and international rules in 
force.  
 
The purpose of the procedure is to assess, approve and register personal protective equipment on 
the basis of an examination of the technical documentation, a physical examination of the equipment 
and its marking in accordance with the applicable standards, and certain tests when the countr y has 
the competent laboratories.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 40 - 
   
Based on the examination, a technical authorization is issued certifying that the equipment satisfies 
the requirements, and stating the category and period of validity of the authorization.  
Purposes and coverage of licens ing 
2. The goods covered by this system are personal protective equipment, meaning devices or items 
worn by workers to protect them against one or more risks to their safety or health at their work 
station, and the parts, components or interchangeable acce ssories needed to ensure their proper 
functioning and used exclusively therewith, including:  
 
-  protective headgear for motorcycle, motorbike and moped riders and equipment for 
underwater work (diving), essential to many economic activities even if they a re not used 
exclusively by workers;  
-  personal protective equipment acquired in connection with different technology projects, for 
example protective clothing that comes with refrigerating equipment, protective devices for 
welding equipment, etc. to test their protective characteristics;  
-  surgical gloves and lead aprons for x -ray exposure used in public health.  
 
The following are not included:  
 
Protective equipment designed exclusively for use by the armed forces, fire services, sporting 
activities, publ ic transport (ships and aircraft), and rescue activities. However, other personal 
protective equipment used in such activities, but not designed exclusively for such use, are subject 
to registration.  These include:  
 
-  respirators used by the fire services ; 
-  motorcycle helmets and goggles used for sporting activities.  
 
While the importation of equipment that has been donated is not subject to technical authorization, 
it must nevertheless undergo the relevant technical analysis before it can be used.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. The procedure seeks to ensure compliance with the protective requirements of the equipment 
marketed in the country for use by workers, and is in no way intended to restrict the quantity of 
imports. The process is efficient enough to avoid any unnecessary delays that could impede the 
marketing of the equipment.  
 
The analysis method used is essentially documentary. Tests could possibly also be conducted to 
achieve the desired resul t, but the necessary laboratories are not always available.  
 
5. The basic laws or regulations that provide the legal basis for the procedure are:  
 
Paragraph 2.2 of Agreement 8332 of 23 March 2018, which states that "the functions of the 
MTSS include propos ing, directing and controlling policies in the areas of occupational 
protection, safety and hygiene and checking the protective characteristics of personal 
protective equipment".  
 
Article 36 of the Basic Regulations of the MTSS, adopted on 10 January 2015 by Resolution 
No. 2 of the President of the Council of State and the Council of Ministers, Army General Raúl 
Castro Ruz, which states that the functions of the Centre shall be to register and approve 
personal protective equipment produced or marketed in th e country.  
 
Article 141 of Law No. 116 containing the Labour Code, which stipulates that "it is the duty of 
the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MTSS) to propose general policy on labour 
protection and safety and to approve personal protective equip ment that is produced or 
imported" in order to regulate this process.  
 
MTSS Resolution No.  7 of February  2013, which specifies that the Centre for the Certification 
of Personal Protective Equipment is responsible for organizing and implementing, as 
appropr iate, all activities relating to the validation of equipment of this type to be distributed 
and used by workers in Cuba.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 41 - 
   
The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation of 
products subject to licensing to a dministrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government 
to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk an d nature of 
each individual case. In this case, the time available to the licence holder to perform these 
procedures depends on how promptly the application is submitted and on whether the relevant 
documentation and samples are delivered on time and in due  form.  
 
(b)  Certification is not possible unless accompanied by the relevant analysis. The process may, 
however, be quicker for renewals of previously registered and approved equipment.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations of that kind.  
 
(d)  There is only one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for registration may be refused where:  
 
-  the equipment in question is not the workers' personal protective equipment under the criteria 
referred to above;  
-  the documents or samples delivered by the applicant do n ot satisfy the requirements or when 
there are discrepancies between them;  
-  the documentation presented is shown to have been subject to fraud or alteration.  
 
The applicant is notified of the report in such cases and may appeal to the next highest level o f the 
MTSS as stipulated in the contract concluded between the parties.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. MTSS Resolution No.  7 of 2013 provides that legal personality to engage in registration procedures 
is vested in importers, producers an d marketers of personal protective equipment; and in any 
entities that use such equipment and are authorized to import them for their own use, such as joint 
ventures, provided that they submit the evidence required to that end and satisfy the other 
require ments.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. For registration of the entity:  
 
-  the information requested in Form 1 delivered by the authority;  
-  for foreign commercial branches, a copy of the trading licence issued by th e 
Chamber  of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba and the list of equipment must be attached;  
-  for entities operating from abroad, a copy of the articles of association of the entity in its 
country of origin, notarized by the Consulate of Cuba in that countr y or at an international 
notary's office in Cuba;  
-  Cuban producers or trading entities must attach a copy of the MINCIN Central Commercial 
Registration to their application.  
For registration and approval of the equipment:  
-  the information listed in For m 2; 
-  declaration of conformity by the equipment's manufacturer;  
-  approval certificate issued by an accredited independent laboratory in the country of  origin or 
a third country;  
-  technical fact sheet on the equipment;  
-  physical sample of the equipment with minimum marking for the purposes of  identification 
(trademark, model and reference number).  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 42 - 
  11. The technical report attesting to its approval.  
 
12. The tariffs payable for the service are set out in Ministry of Finance and Prices Resoluti ons No. P 
84 of 2001 and No.  P 83 of 2005.  
 
13. There are no requirements of this kind.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity of registration certificates for equipment depends on the category of the 
equipment, as follows:  
 
- Equipment in Cate gory I: 5 years;  
- Equipment in Category  II: 4 years;  
- Equipment in Category  III: 3 years.  
 
Upon expiry of the above period, the holder may renew the registration certificate once only.  
 
15. There are no penalties or charges of this kind.  
 
16. The rights conferred upon a licence holder by the registration of equipment are not transferable 
unless the change is to the name of the commercial entity and evidence is produced to that end.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
7  NATIONAL INSTITUTE O F HYDRAULIC RESOURCE S (INRH)  
7.1  National Hydraulic Works Directorate  
Outline of systems  
1. The planning, regulation and control of hydraulic resources and the operation, technical oversight 
and maintenance of hydraulic works and installations. The INRH is responsible for promulgating 
regulations prohibiting the importation of water intensive sanitation equipment, fittings and 
furnishings, in line with worldwide trends and existing legislation.  
 
Resolution No.  28 of 28 February 2006 of the President of the INRH lays down the water consumption 
standards for water intensive sanitation equipment, fittings and furnishings and the energy efficiency 
ratings required for electric pumps. It further provides that technical approval must be obtained 
from the Institute prior to the importation into Cuba or production in Cuba of such products. These 
rules w ill have to be refined in line with technical and technological developments.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The purpose of licensing is to lay down water consumption standards for water intensive sanitation 
equipment, fittings and furnishings and t he energy efficiency ratings required for electric pumps.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. The licensing procedure is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports but to ensure 
that imported products comply with the standards laid down in respect of water intensive equipment 
and quality and energy efficiency standards for electric pumps.  
 
5. Ministry of Construction Resolution No.  655/2009. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. 
The legislation does not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrative 
discretion and it is not possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative 
approval.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 43 - 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Applications must be submitted at least 72 hours prior to the 10th, 20th and 30th of each 
month.  
 
(b) Yes, it can, provided that the established requirements have been met.  
 
(c) Not applicable.  
 
(d) Applications for import licences are considered only by the National Hydraulic Works 
Directorate at the National Institute of Hydraulic Resources. All applications are dealt with on 
a first come, first served basis.  
 
8. An import licence application may be refused if it falls short of the established legal formalit ies 
and technical requirements.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importers must be registered in the National Register for Exporters and Importers of the Chamber 
of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba.  
Documentational and other requirements f or application for licence  
10. The forms issued by the authority are for:  
 
(a)  the importation of pumps;  
(b)  an application for tapware.  
 
The commercial offer or descriptive document, as applicable, must also be attached, indicating the 
efficiency parame ters for each product to be imported or produced.  
 
11. Technical Import Authorization (ATI).  
 
12. Not applicable.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The technical authorization is valid until conclusion of the contract with the importing 
undertaking.  
 
15. Not applicable.  
 
16. Import licences are not transferable.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. No other administrative procedures are required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
8  MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY  (MINDUS)  
8.1  National Lift Group (GNA)  
Outline of systems  
1. Regulations on lifts, escalators and moving walkways, which govern the design, manufacture, 
installation, operation, maintenance, repair, periodical inspection and importation of this type of 
equipment.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 44 - 
  Purpo ses and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system covers lifts for transporting people and goods (HS 8428.10.00), and 
escalators and moving walkways for transporting people (HS 8428.40.00), regardless of speed of 
movement and subject to the exceptions indicated in the regulations.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. The regulations do not restrict quantity by country of origin or provenance. Their purpose is to 
ensure the necessary safety requirements for the transport ation of passengers and goods.  
 
5. Resolution No. 137 of 2004 of the Ministry of Metallurgical, Mechanical and Electronics Industries 
(SIME) and Joint Resolution SIME -MINCEX No. 1 of 2005. Licensing is mandatory for all regulated 
products. Given the highly  technical nature of the subject matter concerned, the Government is in 
charge of implementation and empowered by law in this respect. A central government agency 
(OACE) has been designated as the body responsible for this type of technology in Cuba. The 
granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation of products 
subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government to abolish 
the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always b e obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 
(b)  The import approval notification does not expire.  
 
(c)  Applications for import approval notifications may be made at any time.  
 
(d)  The importer is only required to approach the competent national authority, in this case the 
National Lift Authority attached to the Ministry of Industry.  
 
8. Import applications  may be refused if they do not comply with the regulations on lifts, escalators 
and moving walkways, or if they concern the replacement of existing equipment that is still 
operational and usable in accordance with safety requirements. In such cases, the ap plicant will be 
notified of the reasons for refusal and of the possibility of appealing this decision before the General 
Directorate of the Ministry of Industry.  
 
9. All importing entities are eligible to apply for authorization, provided that they have be en given 
approval to market these products.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The application shall be addressed to the head of the National Lift Group with the following 
information attached:  
 
-  Technical project and descriptive report, in duplicate, containing: a description of the type 
element concerned and the operation thereof; the relevant calculations, characteristics and 
technical descriptions; details of the electrical equipment concerned; and installation and 
assembly plans. The project must be signed by a duly authorized engineer and the owner or 
investor.  
 
The application must include the following:  
 
For lifts:  
 
-  The name of the investor in charge of the works, and the address, telephone number, fax 
number and/or email address where they can be contacted.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 45 - 
  -  A copy of the Resolution specifying the person authorized to sign the contract, with the 
address, telephone number, fax number and/or email address where they can be contacted.  
-  Details of the place wh ere the project will be carried out, including the address of the building.  
-  A traffic study.  
-  A general ground plan of the building, showing the position of the lift and the building's 
compliance with the manufacturer's requirements.  
-  A cross -sectio n diagram of the lift shaft, showing the various floors, the lift car and how it is 
suspended.  
-  A cross -section diagram of the machine room, showing the transmission mechanisms and lift 
motor.  
-  A ground plan of the machine room, showing the lift motor and base.  
-  A ground plan of the lift pit, showing the devices it contains.  
-  A table showing the operating magnitudes assigned to the motor.  
-  Electrical circuit diagrams.  
-  Safety device details.  
-  Adjustment and maintenance manuals.*  
-  A spare parts catalogue.*  
-  Assembly manuals  * 
-  Details of at least three different suppliers from registered trading enterprises.  
-  The name of the authorized company that is to assemble the lift, and its economic valuation.  
-  Any other information tha t the investor considers of interest.  
 
Note: *  It is not necessary to submit these documents if the equipment has been registered.  
 
For escalators and moving walkways, the following must be provided in addition to the 
information required for lifts:  
 
-  An analysis of the static tension of the supporting structure or an equivalent certificate from 
an accredited static -tension analyst.  
-  Details of breakage -resistance tests conducted by an accredited body on direct -action 
components of steps, pallets or bel ts, such as chains and racks.  
-  Calculations of breaking distance, together with adjustment data for loaded moving walkways.  
-  Details of step or pallet tests.  
-  Details of belt breakage -resistance tests.  
-  Handrail breakage -resistance certificate.  
-  Registration certificate, in duplicate, as endorsed by the registration body, stating that the 
type element is registered and in compliance with all the required specifications.  
-  Construction licence, in duplicate, as issued by the competent authorities,  certifying that the 
construction of the building has been approved.  
 
11. The procedure is completely free of charge.  
 
12. Not applicable.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import approval notification does not expire.  
 
15. Not applicable.  
 
16. Not applicable.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 46 - 
  9  MINISTRY OF ENERGY A ND MINING (MINEM)  
9.1  National Office for the Control of the Rational Use of Electricity (ONURE)  
Outline of system s 
1. Technical authorization to import electrical end -use equipment.  Electrical end -use equipment not 
imported for marketing purposes must meet the voltage requirements for the installations in which 
it is to be used. Where the equipment is to be used at e xhibitions and fairs or in field trials, the 
authority in charge will grant technical authorization for three months. Where the equipment is to 
be marketed, the authority in charge will grant technical authorization for two years, provided that 
the equipme nt is registered by the authority responsible and the technical acceptance is valid.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Licensing seeks to establish and control technical requirements relating to the energy efficiency, 
electrical safety and tropicalizat ion of electrical end -use equipment that is imported, manufactured 
or assembled in Cuba by national or foreign legal persons, with a view to promoting the rational and 
efficient use of electricity and ensuring consumer protection through the use of highly energy 
efficient and good quality equipment.  
 
It covers the following electrical end -use equipment:  
 
- Household refrigerating appliances classified under tariff subheadings 8418.10, 8418.21, 
8418.22, 8418.29, 8418.30 and 8418.40.  
- Household electric fans, classified under tariff subheadings 8414.51 and 8414.59.  
- Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) classified under tariff subheading 8539.31.10.  
- Electric smoothing irons classified under tariff subheading 8516.40.  
- Air-conditioning machines cla ssified under tariff subheadings 8415.10 (window or wall types); 
8415.82 and 8415.83 (split systems).  
- Microwave ovens classified under tariff subheading 8516.50.  
- Electric rice cookers classified under tariff subheading 8516.79.  
- Electric pressure cook ers classified under tariff subheading 8516.79.  
- Electric coffee makers classified under tariff subheading 8516.71.  
- Household electric washing machines classified under tariff subheadings 8450.11, 8450.12, 
8450.19 and 8450.90.  
 
3. This procedure applies  to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. There is no restriction as to the quantity or value of imports. Licensing seeks to contribute to 
Cuba's policy on electricity saving.  
 
5. Ministry of Basic Industry (MINBAS) Resolution No. 136 of 2009. Licensin g is required for all 
entities that import the equipment described above. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. 
The legislation does not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrative 
discretion and it is not possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative 
approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing o f the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 
(b)  The auth ority in charge will have a maximum of five working days to consider the application 
and issue the corresponding technical authorization.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations.  
 
(d)  Consideration of applications is effected solely by the authority in charge.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 47 - 
   
8. The following constitute general violations to these regulations:  
 
- Arrival at a Cuban port or airport of electrical end -use equipment that has not received valid 
technical acceptance from the authority in charge.  
- Non-compliance with the obligations undertaken, as set forth in existing legislation in this 
area. 
- In the event of either of the above -mentioned violations, the authority in charge will apply 
one or more of the following penalties:  
- Warning notification.  
- Suspension of technical authoriz ation for one year.  
- Withdrawal of technical authorization.  
- Refused entry or destruction of the equipment.  
 
The authority in charge will have 30 working days from when it becomes aware of a violation to 
apply the above -mentioned penalties.  
Eligibility o f importers to apply for licence  
9. Companies listed in the National Register of Exporters and Importers of the Chamber of Trade of 
the Republic of Cuba that are authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Trade to import products under 
these subheadings.  
Docume ntational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Entities interested in beginning the technical acceptance process for any of the electrical end use 
equipment described, shall complete the relevant form and email it to the authority in char ge. 
 
11. The technical authorization document issued by the competent authority.  
 
12. Yes, the administrative charge corresponds to the type of equipment concerned and the 
validation tests carried out on this equipment in laboratories recognized by the competent authority.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Technical acceptance is valid for two years, provided that there is no change to the equipment's 
technical specifications or the product model. At least 45 days before the technical acceptance 
expires, the holding entities may request an extension of two years, provided that the equipment's 
technical specifications or the product model have not changed. The authority in charge will have 
five working days to consider the exte nsion request and make a decision thereon, after which the 
applicant will be notified.  
 
15. Not applicable.  
 
16. Equipment for which an importer already has technical authorization may be imported by other 
importers, provided that the product model and its  technical specifications do not change.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
10  MINISTRY OF COMMUNIC ATIONS (MINCOM)  
10.1   Technical Budgeted Entity for the Control of the Radio Frequency Spectrum 
(UPTCER)  
Outline of systems  
1. Technical authorization issued by the Ministry of  Communications for imports of 
telecommunications equipment and devices, which must be approved by the customs authority for G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 48 - 
  the purposes of importation. The aim is to ensure that importe d equipment guarantees the proper 
functioning of public telecommunications/ICT networks, the safety of users, the rational and efficient 
use of the radio spectrum and does not interfere with other telecommunications services.  
Purposes and coverage of licen sing 
2. Licensing seeks to maintain control of the use of the radio frequency spectrum and regulate the 
manufacturing and importation of radiocommunications equipment and the compatibility, 
manufacturing and importation of information and communication tec hnology (ICT) equipment.  
 
It covers the following types of equipment:  
 
-  Electrical apparatus for line telephony or line telegraphy, including line telephone sets with 
cordless handsets and telecommunication apparatus for carrier -current line systems or f or 
digital line systems; videophones (HS 85.17).  
-  Microphones and stands therefor (wireless microphones only) (HS 8518.10).  
-  Transmission apparatus for radiotelephony, radiotelegraphy, radiobroadcasting or television, 
whether or not incorporating reception apparatus or sound recording or reproducing 
apparatus; television cameras; still image video cameras and other video camera recorders; 
digital cameras (wireless only) (HS 85.25).  
-  Radar apparatus, radio navigational aid apparatus and radio remote control apparatus (HS 
85.26).  
-  Reception apparatus for radiotelephony, radiotelegraphy or radiobroadcasting, whether or not 
combined, in the same housing, with sound recording or reproducing apparatus or a clock (HS 
85.27).  
-  Parts suit able for use solely or principally with the apparatus of headings 85.25 to 85.28  (HS 
85.29).  
-  Electric sound or visual signalling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, 
burglar or fire alarms), other than those of heading 85.12 or 85.30  (wireless only) (HS  85.31).  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. There is no restriction as to the quantity or value of imports. Its purpose is to maintain technical 
compatibility with networks.  
 
5. MINCOM Resolution No. 132 of 2019. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The 
legislation does not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrative discretion 
and it is not possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they mus t always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 
(b)  No, an expert evaluation is necessary.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations . 
 
(d)  Consideration of applications is effected solely by the authority in charge.  
 
8. The following constitute general violations to these regulations:  
 
-  Arrival at a Cuban port or airport of telecommunications equipment that has not received valid 
technical acceptance from MINCOM.  
-  Non-compliance with the obligations undertaken, as set forth in existing legislation in this 
area. G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 49 - 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Companies listed in the National Register of Exporters and Import ers of the Chamber of Trade of 
the Republic of Cuba that are authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Trade to import products under 
these subheadings.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Legal persons authorized to import, manufacture or market, or interested foreign entities, as 
well as natural and legal persons for the private use of telecommunications equipment, except for 
the aspects set out in law.  
 
11. The technical authorization  document issued by the competent authority.  
 
12. Yes  
 
13. The applicant must pay the designated entity  the established fee to have the tests conducted, 
as well as  CUP 50 for the certificate to be issued and subsequently renewed. This payment is made 
directly at the bank or by bank transfer, in accordance with the current legislation of the Ministry of 
Finance and Prices. To obtain the certificate, proof of payment is submitted to the Territorial 
Directorate and a copy thereof attached to the application.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Technical acceptance is valid for one year.  
 
15. Not applicable.  
 
16. They are not transferable.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
11  MINISTRY OF CONSTRUC TION  
11.1  Centre for the Development of Construction Standards and Construction Costs 
(CDNCC)  
Outline of systems  
1. Assesses the technical suitability of non -traditional products and construction systems, as well as 
the conformity of traditional construction products and syste ms. The technical suitability document 
(DITEC) is the official document issued for a construction product or system once it has successfully 
undergone the evaluation process.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The aim is to ensure that constructions des igned and built in national territory do not compromise 
the safety of human beings, animals, property or the environment, or other aspects of society in 
general. To this end, constructions must meet certain requirements that can reliably ensure an 
adequate  level of safety.  
 
The DITEC can only be granted for the following non -traditional construction products and systems 
(new products or the new use of a traditional product):  
 
-  Industrially manufactured products and systems.  
-  Perfectly identifiable produ cts and systems.  
-  Products and systems intended for a specific and unequivocal use.  
 
For the purposes of these regulations, "non -traditional" shall be understood to mean products and 
systems which, having not been used sufficiently in practice by the tim e the application is filed, are G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 50 - 
  not covered by Cuban rules or regulations that make it possible to verify whether they meet key 
requirements.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. There is no restriction as to the quantity or value of imports. Licensing seeks to contribute to 
Cuba's policy on electricity saving.  
 
5. Ministry of Construction Resolution No. 933 of 1999. Licensing is mandatory for all entities that 
import the products or systems described above. The granting of  licence s is statutorily required. The 
legislation does not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrative discretion 
and it is not possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicab le. 
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the da te of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case.  
 
(b)  No, an evaluation will be conducted by the Technical Centre for the Development of 
Construction Materials. Other institutions may be contracted if necess ary. This work includes 
visits to production centres and construction sites, testing, user surveys, the preparation of a 
preliminary draft of the technical suitability document (DITEC), and consideration of the 
opinions of the rapporteur and the committee of experts.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations.  
 
(d)  Consideration of applications is effected solely by the authority in charge.  
 
8. The DITEC may be provisionally suspended or invalidated where:  
 
-  the product or system is defective;  
-  the holder does not  comply with the regulations or meet the conditions established in the 
DITEC;  
-  the original text is misused;  
-  the holder promotes or agrees to the use of the product or system for a purpose other than 
that for which the DITEC was granted;  
-  other prod ucts are marketed under the DITEC.  
 
If any of the above -mentioned circumstances are detected in the use and circulation of the DITEC, 
the Directorate of Standardization will, with a view to the temporary suspension or invalidation of 
the document, notify t he holder of the infringements observed and request that he present his case 
within 30 days. Any decision to suspend or invalidate the DITEC will be made known to the parties 
concerned.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. The DITEC is availabl e to producers, importers and traders of the products and systems 
concerned.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Applications shall be made in writing and must contain the express commitment to respect the 
obligations der iving from the regulations, particularly as regards any necessary controls, sampling, 
testing or experiments carried out in the factory or laboratory, or on the work site. Applications must 
be accompanied by the following information:  
 
-  Name and identifi cation of the product or system.  
-  Name and distinctive mark of the manufacturer.  
-  Main characteristics of the product or system that determine its suitability for use (in 
accordance with essential requirements).  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 51 - 
  -  Scope.  
-  Packing, packaging, labelling and marking requirements.  
-  Handling, transportation and storage requirements.  
-  Rules on maintenance and repair.  
-  Technical information regarding usage.  
-  Results of tests conducted by accredited entities and of in-factory testing, which should at 
least cover aspects relating to the essential construction requirements.  
-  Documents concerning the relevant quality system.  
-  Characteristics of production, processing and manufacturing control centres.  
-  References to use in works that are completed or under construction.  
-  Certificates issued by authorized institutions and any other information considered useful.  
 
Where a DITEC is requested for a product or system produced in various factories, the report shall 
indicate any fundamental differences that may exist in the manufacturing characteristics of the 
various establishments. Where deemed necessary, a specific report shall be requested for each 
production centre.  
 
11. The DITEC.  
 
12. Not applicable.  
 
13. Not appl icable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The DITEC is valid for five years, unless the relevant file specifies a different period of time or 
the object of the DITEC has been provided for in domestic standards or regulations during this 
period. The DITEC can be invalidated, reviewed or renewed where there are grounds for doing so. 
The renewal of the DITEC must be requested six months before its validity expires, by following the 
same application procedure.  
 
15. Not applicable.  
 
16. In the event of the transfer of  the property or right concerned, the use of the DITEC will require 
authorization from the Construction Standards and Costs Development Centre.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
12  MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT  
12.1  Cuban Ship Registry (RCB)  
Outline of systems  
1. Approval or certification of assemblies, accessories and parts for motor vehicles, railway vehicles, 
ships and boats, and of workshops, laboratories and other installations engaged in production and  
in the provision of services in the various transport sectors and in port activities, in accordance with 
the provisions in force and the international agreements to which the Republic of Cuba is party.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Its purpose is to ensure that assemblies, accessories and parts for motor vehicles, railway 
vehicles, ships and boats, and workshops, laboratories and other installations engaged in production 
and in the provision of services in the various transport sectors and in port activities do not 
compromise the safety of human beings, animals, property or the environment, or other aspects of 
society in general. To this end, products must meet certain requirements that can reliably ensure 
an adequate level of safety.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 52 - 
  Approval is c onsidered to be the action, with all the effects thereof, that is taken by a competent 
authority to recognize officially, through a document issued for this purpose, that:  
 
-  certain assemblies, accessories and parts for motor vehicles, railway equipment,  ships and 
boats, or materials for the repair thereof, or for means and equipment used to transport freight 
or goods, meet the quality requirements and characteristics stipulated for their use;  
-  the workshops, laboratories and other installations engaged  in production and in the provision 
of services meet the necessary technical and technological requirements, which together with 
the knowledge and professional skills of their employees, make it possible to ensure that such 
establishments are suitably qual ified to carry out their work and provide the necessary quality 
and guarantees.  
 
Entities engaged in importation, marketing, production and the provision of services are required to 
ensure the submission for approval of the products and services described,  and to use, produce, 
import and market only those that have received approval.  
 
The system applies to new or retreaded tyres, welding electrodes, lifting devices and port fenders, 
with a view to standardizing the requirements to be met by these products. Technical import 
authorization (ATI) will be granted on the basis of an analysis of the necessary requirements.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. The licensing procedure does not restrict the quantity or value of imports: its purpose is to ensure 
the quality of the products and compliance with domestic technical regulations. No alternative 
methods were considered, since those used were effective in meeting the objectives pursued.  
 
5.  MINTRANS Resolution No. 90 -1992 
MINCEX Resolution No. 307 -2004 
MINTRANS Resolution No. 293 -2014 
 
Licensing is required for all entities that import the equipment described in the answer to question  2 
above. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave the designation 
of products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not possible for the Government 
to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicab le. 
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained before the star t of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case. In the case of goods arriving at the port without a licence, the approval 
formalities can take place at the bor der. 
 
(b)  No, as it is necessary at least to examine the required documentation.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations.  
 
(d)  Consideration of applications is effected solely by the authority in charge, although in the case 
of tyres, the approved brands are regi stered with the Tyres Committee.  
 
8. The applicant is informed of the reasons for the refusal. There is no right of appeal.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importers authorized to import these products in accordance with a list approved by  MINCEX may 
apply for technical authorization.   G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Applications shall be made in writing and must contain the following information:  
 
-  Product name and identification.  
-  Name and distinctive mark of the manufacturer.  
-  Main characteristics of the product or system that determine its suitability for use (in 
accordance with essential requirements).  
-  Scope.  
-  Technical information regarding usage.  
-  Results of tests conducted by accredited entities and of in -factory testing, which should at 
least cover aspects relating to key requirements.  
-  Documents concerning the relevant quality system.  
-  Characteristics of production, processing and manufacturing control centres.  
-  Certifi cates issued by authorized institutions and any other information considered useful.  
 
11. The certificate of approval issued by the competent authority.  
 
12. Not applicable.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The certificate of approval is valid for three years, subject to annual supervision and confirmation 
that the conditions under which it was issued have been maintained.  
 
The certificate of approval may also be invalidated, reviewed or renewed where there are grounds 
for doin g so. Renewal must be requested three months before expiry, following the same procedure 
as for the initial application.  
 
15. Not applicable.  
 
16. The certificate of approval is transferable and may be used by other importers provided that the 
product spec ifications and characteristics do not change.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
13  MINISTRY OF CULTURE  
13.1  National Registry of Cultural Property (RNBC)  
Outline of systems  
1. For the purposes of the international movement of cultural property, the National Registry of 
Cultural Property of the Republic of Cuba (RNBC) applies a cultural property import control system. 
Under this system, importers may obtain a numbered document that constitutes an import  
certificate.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Licensing seeks to control cultural heritage with a view to its preservation, and to prevent the 
illegal trafficking of cultural property, in accordance with the legislation in force in Cuba and the 
international agreements to which the country is party. The following items are subject to import 
licensing:  
 
-  Documents and other property relating to history, including the history of science and 
technology, and to the life of the founders of nationality an d independence, leaders and 
eminent figures, and events of national and international importance.  
-  Collections or objects of scientific interest.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  -  Products of archaeological excavations and archaeological discoveries.  
-  Elements of artistic or histor ical monuments or archaeological sites which have been 
dismembered.  
-  Property of artistic interest, such as original objects and works, and reproductions or copies 
of plastic and decorative art works and of works of applied art and popular art.  
-  Ethnol ogical or folkloric objects and documents.  
-  Rare manuscripts and incunabula, books, documents and publications.  
-  Archives, including photographic, sound and cinematographic archives.  
-  Maps and other cartographical materials, original and printed sco res, special editions and 
sound recordings.  
-  Items of numismatic, philatelic and vitolphilic interest, including revenue and similar stamps, 
single or in collections.  
-  Ethnographic objects and musical instruments.  
-  Any element or part of any urban historical centre, construction or site, whether or not 
declared a national or local monument.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world.  
 
4. There is no restriction as to the quantity or value of imports. Licensing seeks to e nsure protection 
and control.  
 
5. Import licensing for cultural property is maintained under Law No. 1 of 4 August 1977, "Law on 
the Protection of Cultural Property", implemented by Decree No. 118 of 23 September 1983, and 
Resolution No. 57 of 26 October 1 994 of the Minister of Culture, which establishes the importation 
procedure. This legislation implements the following conventions:  
 
-  Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer 
of Ownership of Cultural P roperty.  
-  Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, Paris, 
November 1972.  
-  Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, Paris, 17  October  2003.  
-  Convention on the Protection of the Underw ater Cultural Heritage, Paris, 2  November  2001.  
  
On this basis, the licensing system is statutorily required. The designation of products to be subjected 
to licensing is provided for in the above -mentioned international conventions and in Law No. 1 and 
its supplementary legislation. The granting of licence s is statutorily required. The legislation does 
not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrative discretion and it is not 
possible for the Government to abolish the system with out legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a)  Import licence applications are processed within 48 hours.  
 
(b)  No, as it is necessary to assess the product concerned.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations.  
 
(d)  Generally speaking, licence applications are considered by a technical administrative body. 
For the importation of heritage property, property the composition of which includes any of 
the species protected under the CITES Convention, property of outstanding significance, or 
property of uncertain origin, the matter is put to the consideration of the CITES authority of 
the Ministry of Science, Technology and the Environment (CITMA), the Chair of the National 
Cultural Heritage Council, and the relevant bodies of the Ministry of t he Interior.  
 
8. Not applicable.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Licences are assigned to any natural or legal person interested in importing, on a temporary or 
permanent basis, any of the cultural or heritage property referred to in the L aw. Applications are 
expressly made beforehand, and importers notify the Registry of the date so that the requested 
import can be verified and the corresponding certificate validated.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. A pplicants must provide the following information, in document form or by email:  
-  The particulars of the applicant.  
-  The technical data sheet for each of the items to be imported.  
-  Details of the type of regime under which importation is requested, i. e. permanent or 
temporary; in the case of the latter, an indication of the period of time during which 
importation will take place and the origin of the imported item.  
-  The nature of the import transaction, e.g. institutional, private, diplomatic.  
-  The purpose of importation.  
-  The particulars of the carrier, including their passport number.  
-  The country of origin and the authorization issued by that country where required.  
-  Mode of importation.  
-  Place, date and time of arrival.  
-  For unaccompan ied freight imports, the date and time when the containers will be opened.  
 
11. Upon importation, the specialist from the National Cultural Property Registry must present the 
import licence that has been issued to customs and verify it.  
 
12. The applicable  administrative charge is in the process of being approved.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import licences are valid for 60 days from the date of issue. The period of validity may be 
extended at the request of the applicant.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or portion of a licence. The document 
issued is simply invalidated.  
 
16. Licences are transferable between importers, provided that the change of carrier is requested 
beforehand; where property is de tained pending compliance with import formalities, the carrier may 
endorse the document only once.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
14  CENTRAL BANK OF CUBA  (BCC)  
14.1  Secretariat of the BCC   
Outline of systems  
1. The r egulations  are applicable to the importation and exportation of precious metals and stones 
by Cuban and foreign legal persons in the territory of the Republic of Cuba. The se regulation s cover:  
 
- Precious metals: gold and silver,  unwrought, in semi -manufactured forms and in powder form.  
- Precious stones: diamond, sapphire, ruby and emerald, unwrought, cut and unset.  
 
Legal persons are free to import precious metals and stones,  in the above -mentioned forms, 
provided that the inten ded use of these goods is in line  with their authorized corporate purpose and  
that they comply with the established requirements and formalities for customs clearance, in addition 
to any others that may be applicable. The importation and exportation of dem onetized pieces and 
domestic or foreign specimens of a numismatic nature are subject to the specific regulations laid 
down for that purpose.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
- 56 - 
  Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Licensing seeks to control and ensure the safety of precious metals and stone s, with a view to 
their preservation, and to prevent the illegal trafficking of these goods, in accordance with the 
legislation in force in Cuba and the international agreements to which the country is party.  
 
3. This procedure applies to goods from any co untry in the world.  
 
4. There is no restriction as to the quantity or value of imports. Licensing seeks to ensure protection 
and control.  
 
5. Import licensing for precious metals and stones is maintained under Decree -Law No. 361 of 14 
September 2018 and Resolution No. 28 of 2002 of the President of the Central Bank of Cuba. On 
this basis, the licensing system is statutorily required. The gran ting of licence s is statutorily required. 
The legislation does not leave the designation of products subject to licensing to administrative 
discretion and it is not possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative 
approval.   
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The specific technical authorizations  to carry out import operations must be granted by a 
competent authority and be obtained prior to the signing of the relevant contract. Where this 
is not possible, they must always be obtained  before the start of the commercial operation 
(defined as the date of shipment of the goods), according to the level of risk and nature of 
each individual case. In this case, import licence applications are processed at least seven 
days prior to the import ation of the goods.  
 
(b)  No, as it is necessary to examine the requested documentation.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which an application may be made.  
 
(d)  Licence applications are considered by a technical administr ative body.  
 
8. The illegal procurement of precious metal and stones. If the information provided by the importer 
is unclear, the  importer  will be requested to provide further information to demonstrate the legality 
of the import operation. If the importer  fails to demonstrate the legality of the operation, the 
operation shall not be authorized and the applicant shall be notified of the reasons for the refusal. 
The authority 's decision is irrevocable.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Importe rs authorized to import these products in accordance with a list approved by MINCEX may 
apply for an import licence.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Applicants are required to include the following information in their application:  
 
-  Description of the metals.  
-  Copy of the international sales contract.  
-  Intended use of the goods.  
 
11. Upon importation, the importer must present to customs the import licence issued by the BCC.  
 
12. No administrative fees are charged for the issue of the import licence.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of licensing  
14. The issued import licence does not have an established validity period.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization  of an import licence.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/10  
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  16. Licences are non-transferable.  
 
17. No.  
Other procedural requirements  
18. No.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
__________