G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
27 September 2016  
(16-5151) Page: 1/60 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original: Spanish  
 
  REPL IES TO THE QUESTIONN AIRE ON IMPORT LICEN SING PROCEDURES1 
NOTIFICATION UNDER A RTICLE 7.3 OF THE AG REEMENT ON  
IMPORT LICENSING PRO CEDURES (2016)  
CUBA 
The following communication, dated 31 August 2016, is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation of Cuba . 
 
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1   MINISTRY OF SCIENCE,  TECHNOLOGY AND THE E NVIRONMENT (CITMA)  ...................  2 
1.1   Centre for Environmental Inspection and Control (CICA)  ................................ ..................  2 
1.1.1    Ozone -depleting substances  ................................ ................................ .......................  2 
1.1.2    Biological diversity  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 5 
1.2   National Centre for Biological Safety (CNSB)  ................................ ................................ ... 6 
1.3   National Centre for Nuclear Safety (CNSN)  ................................ ................................ ..... 9 
1.4   National Centre for Chemical Safety (CNSQ)  ................................ ................................ ..12 
1.5   Technical Ozone Office (OTOZ)  ................................ ................................ ..................... 15 
1.6   National Bureau of Standards (ONN)  ................................ ................................ ............. 18 
2   MINISTRY OF AGRICULT URE (MINAG)  ................................ ................................ ...... 20 
2.1   Directorate of Plant Health (DSV)  ................................ ................................ ................. 20 
2.2   Institute of Soils (IIS)  ................................ ................................ ................................ .22 
2.3   Directorate of Animal Health (DSA)  ................................ ................................ ............... 23 
3   MINISTRY OF THE ARME D FORCES  ................................ ................................ ............  25 
3.1   National Office of Hydrography and Geodesy (ONHG)  ................................ ...................... 25 
4   MINISTRY OF THE INTE RIOR (MININT)  ................................ ................................ .... 27 
4.1   Protection Directorate  ................................ ................................ ................................ .27 
4.2   Fire Protection Agency (APCI)  ................................ ................................ ...................... 29 
5   MINISTRY OF PUBLIC H EALTH (MINSAP)  ................................ ................................ .. 33 
5.1   National Directorate of Medicines and Medical Technolog ies, Pharmaceutical Services 
Department, Control Unit for Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Other Similar 
Substances (DNMTM)  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 33 
5.2   National Institute of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Microbiology (INHEM)  .............................. 36 
5.3   Centre for State Control of Medicines and Medical Equipment and Devices (CECMED)  ......... 38 
                                                
1 See G/LIC/3, Annex , for the Questionnaire.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  5.3.1    Control of imports of medicines for human use  ................................ ............................ 38 
5.3.2    Control of crossborde r movement of samples of biological material  ................................ 40 
5.3.3   Import of raw materials, medicines for human use, diagnostic devices, cosmetics 
and items for personal or domestic use of animal origin or containing components of 
animal  origin  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 41 
6   MINISTRY OF LABOUR A ND SOCIAL SECURITY ( MTSS)  ................................ .............  44 
6.1   Centre for the Certification of Personal Protective Equipment  ................................ ........... 44 
7   NATIONAL INSTITUTE O F HYDRA ULIC RESOURCES (INRH ) ................................ ...... 46 
7.1   National Hydraulic Works Directorate  ................................ ................................ ............ 46 
8   MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY  (MINDUS)  ................................ ................................ ..........  48 
8.1   National Lift Group (GNA)  ................................ ................................ ............................ 48 
9   MINISTRY OF ENERGY A ND MINING (MINEM)  ................................ ..........................  50 
9.1   National Office for the Control of the Rational Use of Electricity (ONURE)  ........................... 50 
10   MINISTRY OF INFORMAT ICS AND COMMUNICATIO NS (MINCOM)  ...........................  52 
10.1   General Directorate of Communications (DGC)  ................................ ............................. 52 
11   MINISTRY OF CONSTRUC TION  ................................ ................................ ................  54 
11.1   Directorate of Standardization  ................................ ................................ .................... 54 
12   MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT  ................................ ................................ ......................  56 
12.1   Cuban Ship Registry (RCB)  ................................ ................................ ........................ 56 
13   MINISTRY OF CULTURE  ................................ ................................ ...........................  58 
13.1   National Registry of Cultural Property (RNBC)  ................................ .............................. 58 
 
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1  MINISTRY OF SCIENCE,  TECHNOLOGY AND THE E NVIRONMENT  (CITMA)  
1.1  Centre for Environmental Inspection and Control  (CICA)  
1.1.1   Ozone -depleting substances  
Outline of systems  
1.  A licence is required to import substances that have the potentia l 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 th ereof; R -401A (chlorodifluoromethane, difluoroethane and 
chlorotetrafluoroethane), R-409A (chlorodifluoromethane, chlorotetrafluoroethane and 
chlorodifluoroethane ) and R -408A (chlorodifluoromethane, trifluoroethane and pentafluoroethane), 
etc. Also include d 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 u ntil 
31 December  2014. 
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  3.  The licensing system applies to all the above substances, regardless of the countries they 
originate in or come from . 
 
4.  Licensing is intended to restrict the quantity of imports through the use of a nationally 
established max imum quota for each substance, with a view to progressively reducing the 
substances in question until they are totally eliminated, in compliance with Cuba's obligations as 
signatory to the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and the Mon treal Protocol 
on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer . 
 
5.  Law No.  81 on the environment, Article  12(g) and (i); and Ministry of Science, Technology and 
the Environment (CITMA) Resolution No.  116/2005. Import licensing is mandatory. The legislation 
specifies the substances covered by this licensing system .  
 
Procedures  
6.  In the fourth quarter of the year, the CITMA, through the Technical Ozone Office ( OTOZ ), 
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 authorized importers of controlled substances are Empresa Cubana Impor tadora -Exportadora 
de Productos Químicos (QUIMIMPORT), Group  Empresarial Comercializadora ITH and Empresa 
Importadora -Exportadora TECNOTEX. Authorization is conferred under Resolution No.  9 of 2013 
specifically for methyl  bromide for quarantine and preship ment ( QPS) purposes. QUIMIMPORT is 
also covered by this Resolution . 
 
These importers submit their applications to the OTOZ twice a year, at the beginning of the first 
and the second half of the year, along with the requests from the central government agen cies 
(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 (OTOZ, importer, Centre for E nvironmental Inspection and Control (CICA), 
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 l icensing 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 yea r 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 same calendar year . 
 
II.   Importing entities are required to keep a pe rmanent 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 imports and sales of o zone-depleting substances, and products, equipment, 
and technologies containing such substances. Every three months, the Customs General 
of the Republic notifies promptly to the Technical Ozone Office the data relating to actual 
imports into Cuba of all re gulated 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, at 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.   25 working days . 
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  VI.   Applications are submitted to the CICA, which is based at the Office for Environmental 
Regulation and Nuclear Safety (ORASEN) of 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 amou nts allocated in advance by the OTOZ (HCFCs) in the case of 
methyl  bromide. The OTOZ 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 pha se-out commitments. Under no circumstances does the CICA have any 
influence over this decision . 
 
VIII.   Applications are examined and, once approved in the same order, they are notified to the 
CICA, thus ensuring that any importer to which a quota has bee n allocated can apply for the 
necessary licence . 
 
IX.   Import licences are also required. The processing procedure is the same . 
 
X.   Not applicable . 
 
XI.   No. 
 
7.(a) 60 working days prior to the scheduled date of importation .  
 
(b) Licences cannot be ex tended. A new licence may be requested, within the same 
calendar  year, if all of the anticipated amount is not imported . 
 
(c) There are no limitations . 
 
(d) In such cases, environmental licences are granted solely by the CICA . 
 
8.  An application for an im port licence may be refused if any of the requirements set forth in the 
legislation are not met ; the applicant is notified in writing of the grounds for the refusal. No appeal 
lies from a refusal . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  The impo rtation 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 . 
 
11.  The relevant licence must be presented to Customs . 
 
12.  There is a fee of 62 Cuban pesos . 
 
13.  Not applicable . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.  Licences are valid for t he year in progress. They cannot be extended . 
 
15.  No.  
 
16.  Licences are not transferable . 
 
17.  Not applicable . 
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  Other procedural requirements  
18.  There are no other procedures . 
 
19.  Not applicable . 
 
1.1.2   Biological diversity  
Outline of systems  
1.  Biologi cal Diversity Import Permits (CITMA Resolution No.  111/96 - "Regulations on 
Biodiversity") are required for all plant and animal species and parts and derivatives thereof, 
except for species considered to be exotic, at risk or genetically modified and thos e listed in the 
three appendices to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna 
and Flora (CITES). Also excluded from the scope of the above Resolution are the biological 
resources evoked by the agricultural, livestock and fis h 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 competent authority, destined for human 
and animal consu mption, and traditionally used in the country for these purposes. These import 
permits are granted to Cuban  and non-Cuban  natural persons and legal persons . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2.  Species entering the country as animal or plant variety specimens, in the form of holotypes, 
genotypes, products or derivatives of species and non -exotic specimens .  
 
3.  This procedure applies to goods from any country in the world .  
 
4.  These permits do not restrict quantity . 
 
5.  The Ministry of Science, Techn ology and the Environment (CITMA) was established in 
April 1994 pursuant to Decree -Law No.  147 of the Republic of Cuba. By means of Resolution 
No. 111 of  1996, the CITMA appointed the Centre for Environmental Inspection and Control (CICA) 
to establish, in  coordination with the competent bodies, checks aimed at ensuring effective 
compliance with the measures needed to preserve and ensure the sustainable use of the country's 
natural resources . 
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable . 
 
7.(a) Applications for import per mits must be submitted 30 working days in advance . 
 
(b) Extension is possible; requests must be addressed to the CICA . 
 
(c) Not applicable . 
 
(d) The CICA is the only institution in the country authorized to review and assess applications 
(with the assistan ce 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 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 .  
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  Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  Permit requests must be set forth in a document addressed to the CICA and an application 
form must be completed with the required information . 
 
11.  Not applicable.  
 
12.  Fees are payable in accordance with  Resolution No.  181/2004 .  
 
13.  Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.  An impor t permit is valid for six calendar months and may be extended before its expiry date 
through a request made to the CICA . 
 
15.  There are no penalties, since no legal instrument contains any provisions to that effect. 
Permits are subject only 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.  
 
1.2  National Centre for Biological Safety  (CNSB)  
Outline of systems  
1.  The National Centr e for Biological Safety (CNSB), as the regulatory centre of the 
Ministry  of Science, Technology and the Environment (CITMA), is responsible for , inter alia , 
granting licences 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 construction of 
facilities posing a biological risk. This procedure is in conform ity with the Cartagena Protocol on 
Biosafety to  the Convention on Biological Diversity . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2.  Biological safety authorization is a form of environmental licence, through which the  CITMA, 
after having carried out a risk ass essment, 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 licence, permit, notification or report .  
 
Licences are the form of biolog ical 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 containing 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 o r 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 transferring genetic material . 
 
3.  The Biological Safety Authorization S ystem is applicable to goods originating in any country . 
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  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 Biolog ical Safety Authorization System is maintained are 
the following : 
 
 Resolution No.  67/96 on the creation of the CNSB and its functions and responsibilities, 
which include organizing and implementing procedures for granting licences for the 
importation of biological agents and their products, and organisms and parts thereof 
containing genetic information . 
 Decree -Law No.  190 on biological safety. Section  1, Article  4(c) e stablishes the 
responsibilities of the CITMA, which include granting, suspending and withd rawing 
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 . 180/20 07, Regulations for the Granting of Biological Safety Authori zation. 
Chapter  1, Article  6(e) p rovides that prior biological safety authorization must be 
obtained in order to import and export biological agents and their products, and 
organisms and parts th ereof containing genetic information . 
 
The legislation specifies which organisms are subject to control, i.e. biological agents that affect 
humans, animals and plants; genetically modified organisms; exotic species; and parts of any of 
these containing gen etic information. These products constitute the converge of biological safety 
regulation and the scope of risk control . 
 
Any change needed to the current system  which would mean amending the Decree -Law  would 
be made by the Council of State at the propo sal of the CITMA. Any amendment to 
Resolution  No. 180, which gives effect to the authorization system, would be the responsibility of 
the issuing authority, in this case the CITMA, which is in charge of biological safety . 
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable.  
7.(a) The application assessment process can vary from 30 (notification) to 90 (licences other 
than for the importation of genetically modified organisms intended for release into 
the environment) or 270 (importation of genetically modified organisms intende d for release 
into the environment) working days from the date of receipt of the application, provided that 
the information submitted is complete. Should further information be required, the process 
will be suspended until the relevant information has been  received. Authorization must be 
requested in accordance with the established time -limits . 
 
(b) In Cuba's  case, it is not possible to grant authorization immediately except under very 
exceptional circumstances, as the products concerned pose a risk to thos e 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 
application of risk identification techniques . 
 
(c) There a re 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 examination, it may need to call on experts from other administrative bodies to 
assist in reaching a final decision. Applications are also submitted to the Centre  for 
Environmental Inspection and Control (CICA) for an opinion on whether or not the activities 
are appro priate. The technical report of the Centre is binding for the granting of a  biological 
safety licence . 
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  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 evide nt 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 wit h 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 wil l lose its validity . 
 Deferral: issue 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 autho rity must state the grounds in writing, 
accounting for the decision in detail . 
 
Appeal against the competent authority's decision lies within 10 working  days of the date 
of notification, as appropriate, to : 
 
 The Director -General of the Office for Environme ntal Regulation and Nuclear Safety; or  
 the Minister of the CITMA when the impugned decision is upheld by the Director -General 
of the Office for Environmental Regulation and Nuclear Safety . 
The authority concerned must rule within 15 working days of the dat e 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 reg istered 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 tech nical file, accompanied 
by a written application for a biological safety licence, to the competent 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 proposed 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 o f 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 p ertaining to the specific product to be imported .  
 
11.  Upon importation, the relevant biological safety licence is required . G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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12.  Import licences cost between 345 and 3,979 Cuban pesos . 
 
13.  Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.  The period of v alidity 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 
the CNSB . 
 
15.  Penalties are imposed only if importation takes place witho ut 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 i n the legislation on biological 
safety .  
 
Other procedural re quirements   
18.  Not applicable.  
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
1.3  National Centre for Nuclear Safety  (CNSN)  
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 ensuring 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 the safeguards regime 
for such materials . 
 
Licences are granted to Cuban  and non-Cuban  legal persons based or represented in the 
Republic  of Cuba . 
 
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 th e treaties on non -proliferation and prohibition of nuclear weapons in 
Latin 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 importation is considered an international transfer.  
Ionizing radiation source: Anything that produces ionizing radiation and might cause exposure to 
such radiation . 
Nuclear material: Uranium co ntaining the mixture of isotopes occurring in nature; uranium 
depleted 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 . G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  Significant 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 
product ion of nuclear material . 
3.  The licensing system applies to goods from any country . 
 
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 -related 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 materia l 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 agreements 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 gover ning 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 that are subject to licensing in 
each case .  
 
The Council of State (the legislature) has made licensing a statutory requirement and empowers 
the CITMA (the executive) to establish the terms and conditions for each system. Parliamentary 
approval would be required to abolish the current system . 
 
Procedures  
6.  Not app licable.  
 
7.(a) Under current legislation, an import licence must be obtained from the National Centre for 
Nuclear Safety (CNSN) prior to the introduction of ionizing radiation sources into the 
country. It is provided that the CNSN must respond to a licenc e application within 
30 working days of its receipt . 
 
(b) For the transfer of nuclear material or significant 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 . 
 
(d) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which an application for a licence 
may be made. The CNSN is the sole body responsible for considering licence applications . 
 
8.  Under Article 20 of CITMA R esolution No.  334/2011, an application  for a licence to import 
ionizing radiation sources may be rejected on the following grounds : 
 
 The documents and information provided by the applicant are incomplete or have not 
been prepared in accordance with the req uirements 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 justifi ed for the purposes of 
radiological protection ; 
 The applicant does not meet the regulatory and safety requirements for conduct ing the 
activity.  
 
Authorization to transfer nuclear material or significant components is not granted unless the 
requesting entit y is authorized to use such material or components .   
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  The CNSN notifies the requesting entity in writing of the rejection of the application for  a licence 
to im port ionizing radiation sources  and attaches  the report setting out the grounds for the 
decisio n. 
 
Appeal to the Director -General of CITMA's Office for Environmental Regulation and Nuclear Safety 
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 . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  Applications for licence s to impo rt 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 enti ty, and include data such as the name and address of the requesting entity, 
the name and surname of the entity's legal representative, and the type of authorization 
requested . 
 
Applications to transfer nuclear material or significant components must be sub mitted 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, radionuclide 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 of 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 design ; 
 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 1,263 Cuban pesos is charged for the issue of an import licence, as laid down in 
Resolution No.  347/2 012 of the Ministry of Finance and Prices . 
 
There is no charge for the authorization to transfer nuclear materials or significant components . 
 
13.  There is no deposit or advance payment requirement. The only payment required is the fee 
referred to in poin t 12 above. If authorization is refused, the applicant is not required to make any 
payment . G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 12 - 
 
   
Conditions of licensing  
14.  The 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 penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence .  
 
16.  Import licences are not transferable . 
 
17.  No other c onditions are attached to the issuing of these licences. The licence holder must  
adhere to the licensing requirements .   
 
Other procedural requirements   
18.  No other procedures are required prior to importation . 
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
1.4  National Centre for Chemical Safety  (CNSQ)  
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 Rotterdam 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 R otterdam 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, owner, 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, country 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, 
pentachlorophenol and ethylene dichloride are prohibited, as is the industrial use in textile 
production of poly brominated biphenyls and tris(2,3 dibromopropyl) phosphate. The use of 
polybrominated biphenyls and t ris(2,3 dibromopropyl) phosphate  for purposes other than textile 
production is subject to licensing. The industrial use of ethylene oxide  for sterilization  purposes in 
the national health 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, as is the import ation of anthophyllite, tremolite, actinolite 
and amosite . 
 
3.  The decisions in the preceding paragraph apply to all countries of origin of these chemicals but 
do not cover imports thereof for the purposes of research or analysis or their use as reference  
standards, in which case a licence issued by the CNSQ is compulsory . 
 
All 190 States Parties to the CWC may market the controlled substances of Schedules 1 and 2. 
Any State Party and State not party to the CWC may market Schedule 3 substances, provided th at 
the latter issues a certificate stating the final destination of the substances . G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 13 - 
 
   
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 p urposes 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 tak e 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 purpose s. 
 
4.  The procedure is designed 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 wor ld, in the light of the disastrous 
consequences of the use of CWC -controlled substances for mankind 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 growing 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 a nd Permits", to the general rules 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 e ntitled 
"Regulations  for the Implementation of the National System for the Control of the Chemical 
Substances Listed in the Chemical Weapons Convention, the Granting of Licences and Permits, and 
Information Processing", Chapter III of which, including the first and second sections thereof, is 
devoted to explaining 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 o btained by entities conducting activities involving the 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 th e 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 instru ments. The Council of State (the 
legislature) has made licensing a statutory requirement and empowers the CITMA (the executive) 
to establish the terms and conditions for each system .  
 
Procedures  
6.I. The legislation does not provide for quotas to ensure t hat 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, would be rejected in accordance with 
the established procedure .  
 
No activities have been conducted in the country using Schedule 1 substances . 
 
II.   Not app licable.  
 
III.   Not applicable.  
 
IV.   The deadline for the submission of applications is 60 days prior to the start of the activity 
(importation/exportation ).  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 14 - 
 
   
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 da ys, though it is short er for both imports and 
exports  when the CNSQ  receives the commercial invoice . 
 
VI.   Licences are issued for the date of importation indicated on the commercial invoice . 
 
VII.   Decree -Law No.  202/99 and Resolution No.  32/2003 design ate the CNSQ as the competent 
authority and specify that 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 aut horization issued by that authority . 
 
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) Licence applications must be submitted 30 days prior to the scheduled date of importation .  
 
(b) In exceptional circumstances, the Direc tor of the CNSQ  may authorize the granting of 
a licence even when the application has not been submitted within the established 
time-frame . 
 
(c) Import licences cannot be granted immediately. They are issued for only one substance, 
one import transaction, and when the importer presents the commercial invoice.  There are 
no limitations as to the period of the year during which the licence application may be 
submitted or the importation effected . 
 
(d) Decree -Law No.  202/99 and Resolution No.  32/2003 designate the Secretariat of the 
National Authority for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons ( CEANPAQ ) as the competent 
authority and specify that in cases where another type of authorization is required for the 
importation, manufacture or other uses of chemical subs tances, the processing and granting 
of licences will be contingent upon authorization being issued by that authority .  
 
8.  Licence applications may be refused on the grounds of failure to meet the above criteria or 
other criteria set forth in current legi slation. The reasons for refusal are set forth in a licence 
refusal letter, in accordance with the "Procedure for Processing Applications for 
CNSQ  Authorization".  
 
Applicants have the right to appeal to the Director of the Office for Environmental Regulati on and 
Nuclear Security 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 the Office for Environmental Regulation and 
Nuclear Security, application for a Special Review Procedure may be made within 180 days of that 
decision to the Minister of Science, Technology and 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 r efused 
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 . G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 15 - 
 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Importers must be registered in the National Regis ter for Exporters and Importers of the 
Chamber of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba .  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  An application form for authorization to import chemical substances listed in the CWC  must be 
accom panied by the following : 
 photocopies of the decision appointing the director of the 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 897 Cuban pesos . 
 
13.  The issuing of licences is not associated with any deposit or advance payment requirement 
apart from the application fee . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.  Import licences are valid for only one import or export transaction. They cannot be extended . 
 
15.  Yes. Entities which conduct act ivities involving CWC substances without the relevant 
authorization are committing an administrative 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.  
 
1.5  Technical Ozone Office  (OTOZ)  
Outline of system  
1.  The import, export and consumption licensing system is regulated under Resolution  
No. 116/2005 on the National S chedule for the Control of Ozone -Depleting Substances which lays 
down in annex the substances and products subject to import and export licensing together with 
control measures. The authorization system is  administered by the Regulation  Department of the 
Technical Ozone Office and the environmental licence system by the Centre for Environmental 
Inspection and Control (CICA) which is based at the Office for Environmental Regulation and 
Nuclear Safety (ORASEN) of the Ministry of Science, Technology and the En vironment (CITMA).  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2.  Imports and exports of substances, equipment and technologies listed in the Annexes to 
Resolution No.  116/2005 on the National Schedule for the Control and Elimination of 
Ozone -Depleting Substances  are subject to controls and regulations. These  range from a ban on G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 16 - 
 
  import, export and consumption, to a quota system and the granting of licences  and 
authorizations . 
 
The substances listed in Annexes 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 9 are subject to a ban on import, export and 
consumption in accordance with the time -limits laid down in prevailing legislation and the 
Montreal  Protocol .  
 
The substances listed in Annex 5 are subject to a licence -based regulatory system and quotas 
until 1 January  2013, after which date t heir import, export and consumption will be prohibited . 
Similarly , as of 1  January  2013, a licence -based regulatory system will be in force, in conjunction 
with quotas, for the substances listed in Annex 6, as will an import ban on the technologies listed 
in Annex  10 that use or contain those substances . 
 
Importers and exporters applying to the OTOZ for an environmental licence may state in their 
application that their imports and exports of substances, equipment and technologies listed in 
Annex  10 are free  of controlled substances. The OTOZ will assess the documentation and decide : 
 
if there are no controlled substances, to authorize the import or export by issuing the appropriate 
notice for the Customs Clearance Office;  
 
if there are controlled substances in the import or export, to refer the matter to the CICA for the 
appropriate measures to be taken in accordance with the legislation in force . 
 
3.  The system applies to products originating in and coming from the signatory countries to the 
Montreal Protoc ol (197  members ). 
 
4.  Automatic import licences are used for statistical purposes. Non -automatic import licences are 
used to administer the import restrictions applied in accordance with Resolution No.  116/2005 on 
the National Schedule for the Control of Ozone -Depleting Substances and the Montreal Protocol . 
 
5.  The licensing system is statutorily required. The system may be suspended when deemed 
appropriate. A notice to that effect is published in the Official Journal and the regulatory bulletin 
for impor ters and exporters . 
 
Procedures  
6.  For products under restrictions : 
 
I.   The specialized regulatory bulletin "Legislation in force to protect the ozone layer in  Cuba" 
publishes information on quotas, formalities of filing applications for licences, 
excep tions and derogations . 
 
II.   Quotas are determined on a yearly basis . 
 
III.   The licences are allocated to authorized importers, whether Cuban or non -Cuban . 
 
IV.   A minimum period of 60  days prior to the scheduled date of shipment is allowed for the 
submission of applications for licences from the time of announcing the opening of quotas . 
 
V.   Licence applications are processed in three weeks . 
 
VI.   The period for issuing a licence concludes within 30  working days as from the date 
of acceptance of the application by the Centre for Environmental Inspection and 
Control  (CICA), which is based at the Office for Environmental Regulation and Nuclear 
Safety  (ORASEN) of the CITMA . 
 
VII.   Licence applications are considered by the Centre for Environmental Inspe ction and Control 
(CICA) , which is based at the Office for Environmental Regulation and Nuclear 
Safety  (ORASEN) of the CITMA and the OTOZ . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 17 - 
 
  VIII. The main cri teria for licence allocation are  needs and the equipment to be imported in 
accordance with the leg islation in force. Applications are considered on a  first-come, 
first-served basis . 
 
IX.   There are no bilateral quotas or export restraint arrangements .   
 
X.   Export permits are not required from exporting countries . 
 
XI.   Licences are not issued on c ondition that the goods should be exported and not sold in the 
domestic market . 
 
7.  When there is no quantitative limit on importation of a product or on imports from a particular 
country : 
 
(a) Applications must be filed at least 60  days prior to the sche duled shipment date for licences 
and one week before importation for authorizations. Authorizations can be obtained within a 
shorter time -limit for goods that have arrived at port . 
 
(b) In certain  circumstances  a licence can be granted immediately on reque st. 
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which an application for a n 
import  licence or authorization may be submitted . 
 
(d) The importer only has to approach one administrative body about an application . 
 
8.  None. The applican t 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 Office for Environmental Regulation 
and Nuclear Safety (ORASEN ). 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licenc e 
9.  All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for a quota and recognized importers are 
eligible to apply for an environmental import or export licence . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  An environmen tal licence application form is available at the Centre for Environmental 
Inspection and Control (CICA) , which is based at the Office for Environmental Regulation and 
Nuclear Safety (ORASEN) of the CITMA; an application form for an authorization is availab le at the 
Technical Ozone Office. The importer is required to supply the following documents with 
an application for an authorization from the OTOZ : 
 
 a letter requesting a permit stating the goods that are the subject of the application, the 
supplier, the shipping document and invoice, and a declaration that the goods do not 
contain any ozone -depleting substances ; 
 copy of the BL or AW shipping document or , in their absence , the contract number with 
a copy of the annex listing the goods subject to OTOZ contr ols; 
 copy of the invoice (not necessary if the contract is submitted) ; 
 technical specifications of the product, equipment and technology.  
11.  Upon importation or exportation, the importer or exporter must present either the 
environmental licence approved by the Centre for Environmental Inspection and Control (CICA), 
which is based at the Office for Environmental Regulation and Nuclear Safety (ORASEN) of 
the CITMA , or the authorization issued by the OTOZ to the Customs Clearance Office . 
 
12.  There is no li censing fee or administrative charge . 
 
13.  No deposit or advance payment requirement is associated with the issue of licences . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 18 - 
 
  Conditions of licensing  
14.  The licence is valid for one calendar year from its date of issue. Validity cannot be extended 
beyond that calendar year . 
 
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.  The issue of a licence is subject to the presentation  of documents, a statement o f intended 
uses and the approved quota; the issue of an authorization  is subject to presentation of 
documents . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  No other administrative procedures, apart from environmental import and export licensing, 
are required prior to importation . 
 
19.  The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for the payment of goods to 
be imported. There is no link with applications for , or the issue of, an environmental licence or 
authorization . 
 
1.6  National Bureau of Standards  (ONN)  
Outline of systems  
1.  Technical authorization  is granted  by the  National Bureau of Standards  (ONN), in its capacity as  
the competent national authority , following  verification  that the goods  being imported comply with 
the mandatory technical require ments . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2.  This procedure applies to all importing companies that market  product s classified in the 
following groups pursuant to  Resolution No. 231:  
 
GROUP  A: Measuring instruments and equipment which are subject to met rological control under 
Cuban Standard NC -OIML-D19:94 "Pattern evaluation and approval" and for which the ONN is the 
competent national authority for evaluation, approval and registration.  
 
GROUP  B: Products which are covered  by mandatory Cuban standards  and for which  the ONN is 
the competent national authority for  conformity assessment . 
 
3.  All countries.  
 
4.  Licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports . 
 
5.  Decree -Law No.  183 of 23 February 19 98 and its regulatory decrees  Nos. 270 and 271 of 
10 January 20 01, and Resolution  No. 148 of 23 September  2014 of the  Director -General of the  
National Bureau of Standards . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Prior to entering into a  contra ct for the goods with the supplier . 
 
(b) No, because the documents and information provided have to be examined  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.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 19 - 
 
  8.  Applicants are informed of the criteria for the  approval or refusal of a licence. They have 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 consequence s thereof , within 
30 calendar days  of the  breach . The ONN must examine  the complaint 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, implemen tation, amendment or cancellation of 
the established contract amicably and in good faith . If no agreement is reached , the dispute m ust 
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 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 applicati on for licence  
10.  For Group  A products : 
 
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 evaluation and approval of measuring 
instruments" . Once they have obtained  this certificate, they then h ave to apply for  technical 
authorization from the ONN's Marketing and Investment Department  (DCI)  for each contract, 
which must be presented to the Customs General 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 .  
 
For Group B  products : 
 
Companies importing and exporting product s covered by  mandatory Cuban standards  must apply 
to the ONN's Marketing and Investment Department (DCI) for technical authorization  for each 
contract .  
 
Applications for  technical authorization  are subm itted 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 pr oduct  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 must 
be submitt ed 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 signed 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 D irectorate  of the  ONN for 
batch c ertification  in accordance with the established p rocedures . Once these steps have been 
completed, the corresponding t echnical authorization  can be issued .  
 
11.  The technical authorization , which must be presented to the C ustoms General of the Republic 
(AGR) to secure the release of the goods.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 20 - 
 
   
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 r ates, have 
been issued .  
 
13.  Where no  payment  is forthcoming , the ONN sends  the corresponding  trade complaint  to the 
applicant , who  is required to review the contents and respond within 10 days of receipt. In the 
event of the failure of the applicant to make payment, the competent authority  will charge a 
penal ty of 0.011% for each  day of delay , in line with the maximum default interest rates 
established pursuant to  Decision  No. 41 of 14 May 2008 of the  Monetary Policy Committee  of the  
Central Bank of Cuba , namely  4% p er year in Cuban pesos .  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.  A licence is valid for one year. Its validity may be extended by following the same procedure 
as for the initial application. If an applicant fails to submit the required technical documen tation 
within  30 working days of the date 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.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
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, Stat e bodies and 
agencies, budgeted entities, joint ventures, and 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 r egistered in the National Register of Importers and 
Exporters of the Chamber of Commerce of the Republic 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 fruit 
and vegetables originating in fruit fly -free areas , but inclu ding those for other uses . 
 
3.  The licensing system applies to all materials subject to quarantine (regulated items) originating 
in and coming from any country . 
 
4.  Licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity of imports, rather  to prevent the intr oduction 
of pests . 
 
5.  Decree -Law No.  153, Articles 3(2), 18(a), 25 and 30; and Ministry of Agriculture Resolution 
No. 435 of 1994. Phytosanitary import licensing is mandatory and the legislation establishes which G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 21 - 
 
  products are subject to these procedures.  Parliamentary approval would be required to abolish the 
current system . 
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) 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.  169/1 992 on infringements will be applied . 
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) 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 . 
 
(d) Pursuant to 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 
(CNSB), the Centre for Environmental Management and Inspection, or the Institute of 
Ecology and Systematics, t o 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 informed 
of the technica l 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 the Republic of Cuba .  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  The importer must complete the application form in Annex III .2 
 
11.  The importer or its representative must be in possession of an import licence and the 
certificates specified th erein. 
 
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 initial  application ; indicating  the number of  the previous phytosanitary licence 
speeds up the formalities . 
 
15.  There are no penalties . 
 
16.  No, licences are not transferable between importers . 
 
17.  Not applicable . 
 
18.  Other procedural requirements . 
 
                                                
2 A sample form is available for consultation in the Secretariat (Market Access Division) 
(in Spanish  only). G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  19.  Not applicable.  
 
2.2  Institute of Soils  (IIS) 
Outline of systems  
1.  A licence is 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 fertilizers;  
 organic fertilizers;  
 biological fertilizers;  
 biostimulating fertilizers.  
3.  They can origi nate in and come from any country . 
 
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 en vironment .  
 
5.  
 Decree No.  179/1993 "Protection, Use and Conservation of Soils and Infringements 
thereof", which lays down the parameters and obligations governing the use and 
conservation of  Cuban soil; Ministry of Justice Resolution No.  7/2001 authorizi ng the 
establishment of  the Central Registration Authority for Fertilizers; and Ministry of 
Agriculture Resolution No.  322/2001 implementing the Central Registration Authority for 
Fertilizers, which sets out the documents to be submitted with an applicatio n for 
registration, the statutory procedures to be followed and the assessments to be 
conducted by  the Committee of Experts.  
 Registration is statutorily required under the legislative instruments referred to above.  
 The legislation that forms the legal fram ework 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 ap proval must be obtained for its abolition.  
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable as there are no restrictions as to quantity or value . 
 
7.  Where there is no quantitative limit on the importation of a product or on imports from a  
particular country : 
 
(a) There are  no minimum or maximum lengths of time; the time taken to process an 
application for a fertilizer before registration in the Central Register varies depending on how 
complex the fertilizer in question is. The potential dangers that a fertilizer poses to li fe 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 limitations as to the period of the year . 
 
(d) The importer only has to approach the Central Reg istration 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 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  possible because the deci sion 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 Cub a 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 an d other requirements for application for licence  
10.  Applications must contain the following information : 
 
 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 req uired for the tests and 
trials that will be conducted.  
11.  Documents attesting to approval and registration with the Central Registration Authority for 
Fertilizers . 
 
12.  There is no set fee or charge. The amount charged depends on product type and the an alyses 
and tests conducted on it in the light of its features. The amount charged is based on the official 
price list drawn up for such activities . 
 
13.  The issue of a licence is subject to payment of the analyses and tests conducted. The amount 
charged i s not refundable and is based on the criteria referred to in  point 12 above . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.  Licences do not expire provided that the 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.  Licences are not transferable . 
 
17.  Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  As far as Cuba is  concer ned, those laid down in relation to registration with the 
Central  Registration Authority for Fertilizers . 
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
2.3  Directorate of Animal Health  (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  by air. 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2.  The purpose s of licensing are protect ion of  national t erritory from the introduction of 
exotic  diseases ; prevent ion and control of animal diseases, including zoonose s; epizootiological 
monitoring; veterinary drug registration ; and sanitary/hygienic control of food of animal origin 
intended for human consumpti on or animal feed . The established regulations cover  imports of the 
following : 
 
(a)  live domestic and wild animals  of protected species;  
(b)  product s of animal origin for consumption or for industria l, decorative , experimental or  
research  purposes ; 
(c)  microbial and parasitic agents that affect animal health ; 
(d)  vaccines , strains  and other similar products  used in veterinary medicine ;  
(e)  culture and diagnostic media with components  of animal origin ; and 
(f)  element s, product s and packaging  of any o rigin capable of transmitting or carrying animal 
diseases . 
 
3.  All countries.  
 
4.  There is no restriction as to the value or quantity of imports ; licensing 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 . 
 
Procedures  
6.  There is no restriction as to the value or quantity of imports . 
 
7.(a) Prior to signing the contra ct with the supplier . 
 
(b) A licence cannot be granted immediately given t hat 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, mic ro-organism s or other  animal -disease -carrying or animal -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 inspec tion 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 directi on of, the  
Ministry  of Public Health . 
 
The Ministry 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 infecti ous 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  control s, 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 
certificat ion provided  by the  manufacturer .  
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  Eligibility of importers to app ly 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 en tity they represent .  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  All applications for authorization  to import animals must be accompanied by the certificat ion 
issued by the competent authorities of the exporting country , authe nticated and certified by the 
Cuban consular authority , where appropriate . Applications are granted or refused on the basis of a 
health risk analysis.  
 
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 associated 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.  Licences 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 authorit y for an inspection and sanitary certification visit of the establishme nts wishing 
to export to Cuba  (MINAG, Directorate of Animal Health ) and for registration of  the product s 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 extraction 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.  It applies to imports from any country . 
 
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 c ommunications services . 
 
5.  Decree No.  269, mentioned above, and Resolution No.  90 of the Minister of the Revolutionary 
Armed Forces (MINFAR) of 13  February  2001 implement ing Decree No. 269. Licensing is 
mandatory, except for natural persons who import th e products for personal use, e.g. clocks and 
watches, pagers, and outdoor orientation devices, in which case the goods must be declared at G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  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. 
Changes cannot be made to the current system without parliamentary approval . 
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable. Imports of GPS equipment are not subject to any restrictions in ter ms of 
quantity or value .  
 
7.  When the equipment is not used in activities to determine high -precision coordinates . 
 
(a) 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 recommend ed 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 govern ment agencies (OACE) before issuing or 
refusing 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 p rovide 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 establishing 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 tactical 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 lice nces are free of charge .  
 
13.  No deposit  or advance payment requirement is associated with the issue of licences . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  Conditions of licensing  
14.  Licences are valid for 90 calendar days and may be extended by submitting a new application 
to the ONHG explai ning 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.  Licences are not transferable.   
 
17.  There are no other conditions . 
 
Other procedural requi rements   
18.  No other administrative procedures are required prior to importation.  
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
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 t o 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 est ablished 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 (ACS) of the following types: magnetic card, proximity, code, voice 
recognition, hand geometry, fingerprint, and retina scanner; accessories, component s and parts, 
and information processing and management software .  
 
Intruder alarm systems. Central alarm units; intruder detectors of the following types: magnetic 
contact, electrical contact, capacitive, radio frequency, infra -red, passive infra -red, ultr asonic, 
pressure, vibration, seismic, temperature, and laser; acoustic and visual signalling apparatus . 
 
Central alarm receiving units and remote security system management platforms. Mechanical push 
button security locks; mechanical security locks; electr onic security locks; time control locks; 
high-security padlocks; time locks; reinforced doors; reinforced vault doors; fireproof vault doors; 
emergency vault doors; explosion -resistant doors; fire doors; reinforced windows and glass; 
bullet -proof steel arm our-plating; day and night deposit boxes; ATMs; panel -reinforced rooms or 
vaults; data storage safes; security doors; value transfers; counter safes and anti -theft boxes; 
gun racks; safety  deposit boxes for bank vaults; code -reading key copying machines; m aster key 
systems including codifiers and decodifiers with software programme; skeleton keys; 
European  Standard high-security safes, 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; electronic 
combination locks; electro -mechanical locks and keys; electronically controlled code -operated 
safes; encoded electro -mechanic transponder  systems for motor vehicle security; non -copiable 
security cylinders . 
 
3.  The licensing system applies to goods from any country . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  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 . 
 
5.  Decree -Law No. 186/98 on the Security and Physical Protection System, Chapter II, Section 1, 
concerning the compet ent 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 . Import licensing is 
mandatory. Parliamentary approval would be required to abolish the current system.  
 
Proced ures 
6.  Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) There is no requirement as to how far in advance a licence must be requested, but the 
Protection Directorate has 15 working days from the receipt of the application within which 
to issue its decision. Under exceptional circu mstances, the period for examining the 
application may be shortened at the Directorate's discretion .  
 
(b) A licence cannot be granted immediately on request . 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Consideration of licences is effected only by the Protection Directorate of the Min istry 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 t he Protection Directorate of the MININT. Licences for non -approved 
technologies can be issued only when the import is to be used as a sample for the 
type-approval  process . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Importers must be registered in t he 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 Reso lution  
No. 2/2001 : 
 
(a) Importer details;  
(b) Security devices to be imported;  
(c) Make and mode;  
(d) Supplier;  
(e) 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 . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  17.  The product must be approved by the accredited national entity (ACERPROT) on the b asis of 
compliance with the technical and environmental standards in force in the country .  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  No other administrative procedures are required prior to importation.  
 
19.  Not applicable.   
 
4.2  Fire Protection Agency  (APCI)  
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 techni cal requirements , of fire protection equipment 
manufactured  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 services 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  compli es with the technical 
requirements set forth in the national and international rules in force . To our knowledge, no other 
country has an import licen sing system with this objective, with all the flexibility that such a 
process requires.   
 
Purposes a nd coverage of licensing  
2.  The homologation  of fire safety 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 stan dards  to be determined and/or the recognition , on the 
basis of  an evaluation of documentation  and/or practical  testing , of the certification  and/or test 
report  issued by a recognized body.  
 
Product s are categorized  by specialized function.  
 
Categor ies: 
 
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 that 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  docume ntation, sample s, etc., that it is 
indeed the exact same product . 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 trade mark 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 c haracteristics . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  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 d esigns - 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 desig ns. 
- Beam designs for roof -ceiling assemblies.  
- Wall and partition designs . 
- Column designs . 
- Interior wall system designs . 
- Exterior wall system d esigns . 
 
Construction materials  
- Air-conditioning systems and components  thereof : ducts , filters , conne ctors, dampers , 
acoustic material , sealants, adhesive s.  
- Construction materials : mineral wool and  insulation blankets , laminated wall panels , 
composite  wall panels , floor boards , wall coatings and finishes , floor coatings and finishes , 
fire-retardan t coa tings, 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 other purposes , decorative false ceilings , etc. 
 
Fire barrier systems and components  thereof   
- Intumescent paint (primer, undercoat and  topcoat ) for metal . 
- Fire-retardant paints and varnishes  (primary stain , varnish finis h 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, powder , 
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-extinguishi ng 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 w ater-spray extinguishing systems . 
- Low-, medium - and high -expansion foam extinguishing systems . 
- Compressed air foam extinguishing systems . 
- Fittings , component s and spare charges  for the above  systems . Nozzles and  diffusers . 
Support b rackets 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.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  - Hydrants , equipment cabinets , fire hose reels (FHR s), 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 ala rm systems and similar products  
- Intruder detection and alarm systems with fire-detection capability . 
- Fire detection and alarm systems : conventional , addressable , analogue , extinguishing , gas, 
etc. 
- Remot e supervision and monitoring devices . 
- Notification and alarm  devices : audible alarm s, visual alarm s, visual and audible  alarm s, 
loudspeakers , other  accessories . 
- Initiating  devices and  accessories  therefor : flame , heat, 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 , increased 
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. 
- System integration computer programmes . 
- Computer programmes for in -system device programming . 
- Electrical cable s for detection systems . 
 
Electrical equipment  
- Electric conductors : cables, wires , braided wires , strip, etc. 
- Condu its and fittings : tubing , cable trays, inspection chambers , covers, seals, etc. 
- Emergency lighting and signage : independent light sources with o r without  signage , 
safety  decals , pictogram s, etc. , whether or no t photoluminescent . 
- Overcurrent protection : thermal, magnetic , fuses, combin ed, etc. 
- Surge  protection : data surge protectors , AC surge protectors . 
- Arc striking devices . 
- Passive protection system devices : Franklin lightning rod s, Faraday cage s, down conductors , 
electrod es, fasteners , lightning -strike counter s, etc. 
 
3. The system applies to both domestically produced and imported goods. Imported goods come 
from any country where  they are produced and marketed by  suppliers  with which  Cuba has trade 
relations .  
 
4.  Licensing is not intended to r estrict 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 systems used in the country , and of  materials and substanc es 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 .  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) There is no requirement  as to how far in advance certification  must be requested, but 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 
understo od. An application for c ertification  by the importing entities  is a pre-requisite  for 
entering into a purchase contract .  
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  (b) A licence cannot be granted immediately upon request . 
 
(c) There are no such limitations . 
 
(d) Consideration of applications  and grant ing of  certification  are effected solely  by the 
Fire Protection Agency  of the  Ministry of the Interior . 
 
8. A licence application may be refused where :  
 
 the equipment in question is not fire protection equipment under the criteria referred to 
above ; 
 the documentation or samples delivered 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 requirements 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 cert ification applicant if other than the supplier . The documentation  listed hereunder is also 
required in the context of the application process . 
 
An evaluation requires s ubmission of the following documents , irrespective of the nature or 
destination of the p roduct:  
 
 technical 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 p roduct  by the afor ementioned  body, or 
by an accredited laboratory and the results of which a re recogniz ed by the said body ; 
 physical samples  of the p roduct  (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  informatio n 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 certificate s is as 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 . 
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  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 if, 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.  Certificates are not transfe rable 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 Department , Control Uni t 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 against Illicit T raffic in Narcotic Drugs and 
Psychotropic 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, precursors and b asic 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 these 
substanc es 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 Similar 
Substance s, which is the drug control department of the  National Directorate of Medicines and 
Medical Technologies . These e ntities must  comply with the following requirements : be entered in the 
Register of Importers and Exporters of the Chamber of Commerce 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.(a) Narcotic drugs regulated by the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961 . 
 
(b) Psychotropic substances regulated by the Conventi on on Psychotropic Substances, 1971 . 
 
(c) 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 ensur e that medical and scientific needs are met . 
 
3.  The import licensing system is applied on the basis of the above -mentio ned classification to 
goods from all countries without exception . G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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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 treatie s in which 
all member States participate. The estimates system is administered by the International Narcotics 
Control Board (INCB) and aims to meet legitimate needs for these substances while preventing 
illicit trafficking and diversion from lawful interna tional trade channels .  
 
The estimates system administered by the 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.(a) Ministerial Re solution No.  58 of 1967, Standards and Procedures for the Control of  Narcotic 
Drugs, in accordance with the provisions of the Single Convention on Narcotic  Drugs, 1961 . 
 
(b) Ministerial Resolution No.  72 of 1990, which implements the provisions of the Conv ention on 
Psychotropic Substances, 1971 . 
 
(c) Ministerial Resolution 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 an d Psychotropic Substances, 1988 . 
 
Import licensing is mandatory and is governed by specific legislation .  
 
Procedures  
6.I.   Once officially registered, the importer is automatically notified of the formalities to be 
completed when submitting an applicatio n for an import licence, and of the statutory rules 
and procedures . 
 
Information relating to the approved estimates for the country is officially published by the 
INCB and distributed to each country in printed form. It is also available on the 
INCB websit e. Once the estimates are known, the quotas are allocated and the importers so 
informed as of January each  year. 
 
There are no exceptions or derogations from the licensing requirement. Anyone operating 
with the above -mentioned substances is required to obt ain 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 s ubstances which we are responsible for controlling, 
their final destination and end use must be stated each time an import licence is 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 wo rking days as of the date when 
the application is submitted . 
 
VI.   Not applicable. This depends on the period of time established by the exporting country's 
competent authority for the granting of the export licence once the corresponding import 
licence h as been received . 
 
VII.   Consideration of i mport 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 nati onal authority for the purposes of 
the implementation of the above -mentioned international treaties regarding the monitoring 
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 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  competent  authorities are notified  so that the applications  can be examined by the  
National  Counter -Narcotics Directorate of the  Ministry of the Interior .  
 
VIII. All applica tions are dealt with on a first -come, first -served basis and in accordance with 
established priorities. New importers are directly incorporated into the control system  and 
are issued licences  once they have met the established legal requirements . 
 
IX.   This is not applicable in the case o f narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors. 
The licensing system applies to imports and exports alike and is mandatory 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 exp orting country. Cuba is also party to the pre -export notification 
mechanism, which is applied to products classified as precursors and basic chemicals .  
 
XI.   Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Applications must be submitted at least 15 days before the imports arrive  in the country . 
 
(b) Yes, it can, provided that the request is duly justified and the established requirements have 
been met . 
 
(c) Not applicable.   
 
(d) Consideration of i mport licence applications is effected solely 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 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  precursors .  
 
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 indicati on 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 registered 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 import licences must contain the following information : 
 
(a) name and legal domicile of the im porter and exporter;  
(b) the entity's registration number in the National Register for the Monitoring of  
Controlled  Substances;  
(c) telephone number, fax number and e -mail address of the importer and exporter;  
(d) generic name of the narcotic drug, psychot ropic substance or substance with similar  effect;  
(e) International Non -proprietary Name (INN), if any;  
(f) harmonized system code;  
(g) quantity of product with measurement units expressed in letters and numbers;  
(h) product description: presentation, pack aging, pharmaceutical form and dose of the product 
in the case of pharmaceutical preparations ; 
(i) international sales contract number, where appropriate ;  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  (j) declaration as to the use and final destination of the substance, identifying the client or the 
user of the substance ; 
(k) in the case of imports of pharmaceutical preparations, the registration number issued by the 
Centre for State Control of Medicinal Product Quality ;  
(l) anticipated date of arrival of goods in the case of imports or anticipated d ate of  departure in 
the case of exports ; 
(m) 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 ; 
(n) date of application ; 
(o) 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 competent 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. e ach 
time goods cross the border.   
 
16.  Import l icences are not transferable . 
 
17.  No other conditions are attached to the issue of a licence , unless an official 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  Indicator s Handbook , which 
establish es the list of goods  subject to import licensing . The licensing system is administered by 
the Departm ent of Sanitary Registration and Control  of the National Institute of Hygiene, 
Epidemiology and Microbiology ( INHEM ). 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2.  Imports of all  registered product s are subject to automatic licensing during the  three  years  of 
their certificatio n; imports of new  product s applying for  first-time sanitary registration  are subject 
to non -automatic licensing .  
 
3.  The system applies to goods  originating in and coming from  all countries.  
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  4.  Automatic import licences are used for sta tistical purposes while non-automatic import licenses  
are used  to administer the import restrictions applied in accordance with current sanitary 
legislation.  
 
5.  The sanitary licensing and sanitary registration  system s are statutorily required . The system s 
may be suspended when deemed appropriate . A notice to that effect is published in the 
Official  Journal.  
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) 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-arranged 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 importer only has to approach one administrative body about an application . 
 
8.  None. The applicant is notified in writing of the reasons fo r the refusal. In the event of refusal 
to issue a licence, the applicant has the right of appeal to the  competent authority . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for licences . 
 
Documen tational 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 specifications of the product , required product certifications , sample of no commercial 
value of each product  for the required laboratory analyses , and product label s. 
 
11.  Upon actual importation, an importer is required to submit the approved impor t 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 requirem ent 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 a pplication  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 attac hed to the issue of a licence . 
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  Other procedural requirements  
18.  The Health Registration Authority reserves the ri ght, where it deems it relevant  and always in 
conjunction with the State Health Inspectorate, to conduct a technical visit to the producer, 
market er or controlling entity prior to issuing  the licence  or during the period of validity of 
registration in order to establish the degree to which the products comply with the requirements to 
which they are subject . 
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
5.3  Centre for St ate Control of Medicines and Medical Equipment and Devices  (CECMED)  
5.3.1     Control of imports of medicines for human use   
Outline of systems   
1.  Regulation  by import control is the means employed  by the Ministry of Public Health  (MINSAP ) 
to prevent the commerc ial 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.  Covers medicines for hu man use . 
 
3.  There are no country -based restrictions; all medicines for human use brought into Cuba are 
covered by the system regardless of their country of origin . 
 
4.  Licensing is intended to prevent the commercial importation of medicines for human us e 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 . 
 
5.  MINSAP Ministerial Resolution  No. 65 of 2003 and CECMED Resolution  No. 83 of 2003. The 
procedure is  mandatory for the products covered . 
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable. There are no restrictions as to the quantity or value of the medicines; a licence 
is awarded strictly on health grounds. The regulations and procedures are published on the 
authority's we bsite at  http://www.cecmed.cu . 
 
7.(a) 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 receipt 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 shipmen t. 
 
(d) No. 
 
8.  An application for a licence may be refused if the products are not registered; 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 r equirements governing  applications for entry in and 
renewal of and amendment s to entries in the Register of medicines for human use .  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  The applicant  is notified of the reasons for the refusal . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Authorized /accredited importers may import medicines .  
 
Documentational and other requir ements for application for licence  
10.  Form issued by the authority . 
 
11. 
(a) Import certificate application on the relevant official form (original and two copies);  
(b) 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 laboratories, quality 
certificate or other document in which the supplier assumes responsibility for the 
quality of the  batches;   
(c) Samples or photocopies of the labels on the packing materials for medicines for 
human use where the information is not in Spanish (including the patient information 
leaflet) for  the exceptions provided for in Article  8(2); 
(d) Copy(ies) of t he 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 the country and stating that they are aware of the shelf -life(ves) and that 
the remaining she lf-life(ves) and quantity(ies) of product are such that they can be 
used prior to  their expiry . 
 
If, at the time of submitting an import certificate application , the applicant does not possess  the 
documents referred to in point 2 of this response , import m ay be authorized subject to the 
retention of the goods. T he documents will need to be submitted at a later date as part of an 
application for clearance of the batches so that the goods can be distributed . 
 
The CECMED  reserves the right to request additiona l information of any kind where it deems it 
relevant to do so . 
 
12.  The procedure costs 25  Cuban pesos . 
 
13.  Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.  An import certificate is issued f or each shipment and covers th e product(s) contained in the 
shipme nt 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 shipments , 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 . 
 
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 ente rs the country . 
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  19.  Not applicable.  
 
5.3.2   Control of crossborder movement of samples of biological material  
Outline of systems  
1.  The control of crossborder movement of samples of biological material is the means employed  
by the Ministry of Public Health ( MINSAP) to ensure compliance 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), micro -organisms and other  element s that may pose a 
risk to human health . 
 
3.  The system  applies to material originating in and coming from any country . 
 
4.  Not applicable.  
 
5.(a) MINSAP Ministerial Resolution No.  132 of 2004 . 
 
(b) Health Protection Regulation Bureau (BRPS) Resoluti on No. 8 of 2007 . 
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable , there is no restriction as to quantity or value ; this is a health 
monitoring  system . 
 
7.(a) The application must be made before the movement is under way and upon receipt 
of notification of shipment; howeve r, 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 requirements have be en 
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 circumstan ces 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 . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
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 . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  11.  Form issued by the authority . 
 
(a) 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 ). 
 
(b) Technical report from the Haematology and Immunology Institute for samples 
of bone marrow . 
 
(c) Notification from the Vice -Ministry of Health Care for samples for clinical 
diagnostic  purposes . 
 
(d) For human DNA samples, official notification from the CNGM stating that 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 approve d by 
the MINSAP CITMA Committ ee, which requires a number  of licences from other bodies . 
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
5.3.3   Import of raw materials, medicines for human use, diagnostic devices, cosmetics 
and items for personal or domestic use of animal origin or containing components of 
animal ori gin 
Outline of systems   
1.  Raw materials, medicines for human use, diagnostic devices, cosmetics and items for personal 
or domestic use of animal origin or containing components of animal origin  cannot be imported 
without t he corresponding  import licence issued by the Centre for State Control of Medicinal  
Product Quality or the Health Registration, Control and Qua lity Department, as  appropriate . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2.  The licensing system c overs raw materials, medicines for human use, diag nostic devices, 
cosmetics and items for personal or domestic use of animal origin or containing components of 
animal origin . 
 
3.  There are no country -based restrictions; all medicines for human use brought into Cuba are 
covered by the system regardless of  their country of origin . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  4.  Licensing is intended to prevent the entry into Cuban territory of raw materials, medicines for 
human use, diagnostic devices, cosmetics and items for personal or domestic use of animal origin 
or containing components of anim al 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 procedur e is mandatory for the 
covered products . 
 
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 application for an import certificate for medicines for huma n use may be filed before the 
shipment of products covered by a contract by submission of the appropriate official form 
drawn up to that end, listing one or more products, provided they are all part of t he same 
contract and shipment. T he CECMED has up to f ive days to issue the licence following 
receipt 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 . 
 
(d) Depend ing 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 applicat ion for licence  
10.  Form issued by the authority . 
 
11. 
(a) Import certificate application on the relevant official form (original and two copies ). 
(b) Certificates from the official veterinary services of the country of origin containing the 
information s et out in the Third Paragraph of and in Annex 2 to Ministry of Agriculture and 
Ministry of Public Health Joint Resolution No.  2/2001 . 
(c) Copies of the analysis certificates for each of the product batches included in the application . 
(d) Express permissio n or authorization from the Ministry of Public Health for med icines and 
cosmetics that are unregistered or for which no provisional marketing licence has been 
issued .  
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   In this case, the following information must also be submitted : 
 
a. Product data :  
o generi c 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 . 
 
b. Quality specification s or technical standard applicable to  the product . 
c. Assessment of suppliers and reasoning behind the choice made . 
d. 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 i n the 
manufacture of medicines or cosmetics that are unregistered or for which no provisional marketing 
licence has been issued .  
 
In this case, the following information must also be submitted : 
 
e. Product data :  
o Generic name ; 
o Trade name ; 
o Physical state ; 
o Presentatio n; 
o Manufacturer ; 
o Country ; 
o Marketing entity.  
 
f. Quality specifications or technical standard applicable to the product . 
g. Assessment of suppliers and reasoning behind the choice made . 
h. Batch release certificate issued by the medicines regulatory authori ty of the country 
of origin . 
For products  undergoing research and development , the import 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 produ ct in question .  
 
12.  Not applicable.  
 
13.  The procedure costs 25 Cuban pesos . 
 
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 can it be subject to corrections or 
clarifications that may interfere with its proper interpretation. A licence cannot be extended . 
 
15.  No. The penalties prov ided for relate to the possibility of unlicensed hazardous products 
entering the country . 
 
16.  Not applicable.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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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 Equipment  
Outline of systems  
1.  Article  141 of Law No.  116 containing the Labour Code stipulates that "it is the duty of the 
Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MTSS) to propose general policy on labo ur protection and 
safety and to approve personal protective equipment that is produced or imported" in order to 
regulate this process. MTSS Resolution No.  7 of February  2013 specifies that the Centre for the 
Certification of Personal Protective Equipment a ttached to the Ministry is responsible for organizing 
and implementing, as appropriate, all activities relating to the validation of equipment of this type 
to be distributed and used by workers in Cuba . 
 
This administrative procedure seeks to ascertain tha t the above -mentioned  equipment complies 
with the technical requirements set forth in the national and international rules in force . To our 
knowledge, no other 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 purpose of th is administrative procedure is to assess, register and approve personal 
protective  equipment on the basis of a paper -based check, to conduct a physical examination of 
the equipment  and its marking  in accordance with  the applicable standards , and to carry out  
certain performance -related tests for which Cuba has competent  laboratories . 
 
The analysis culminates in a technical report or certificate stating whether or not the equipment 
satisfies the requirements in each case. This takes into account the classification of the equipment 
in categor ies I, II or III, given the  differences in terms of the documentation  and analytical rigour 
required  and the variations in the period of validity of certification  in relation to  the magnitude of 
the risks against which  the equipment provides protect ion. 
 
3.  The system applies both to goods produced domestically (mostly saddlery equipment) and to 
imports and is restricted , as noted above , to workers ' personal safety equipment, meaning devices 
or items worn by workers to protect them against one or more risks to their safety or health , and 
the parts  and components of or accessories to such equipment, including protective equipment 
used in the health s ystem. In line with international practice, the only exceptions to this procedure 
are items used by armed services, the fire and rescue service  and sports people and in means of 
transport .   
 
The chief area of origin is Latin America, followed by Europe an d Asia. A distinction must , however, 
be drawn between "or iginating in" and "coming from" . Where origin or place of manufacture is 
concerned, Europe predominates . 
 
4.  The procedure is in no way intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. Rather its aim 
is to ensure compliance with the protective characteristics of the equipment under assessment . 
 
The method of analysis is mainly paper -based, as noted above. Consideration has been given to 
the idea of using technical tests on the various types of equipment, but the number of tests 
necessary for each type and their cost are high and only more developed countries have the 
resources to conduct them all. Nonetheless, a proposal has been made to conduct a set of basic 
checks on safety equipment for situ ations that arise most frequently or pose the greatest risk . G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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5.  The basic laws or regulations that provide the legal basis for the procedure are Law No.  116 
of 12 June 2014 containing the Labour Code , and MTSS Resolution No.  7 of February  2013, which 
establishes the Centre for the Certification of Personal Protective Equipment as the body with 
responsibility for organizing and implementing all activities relating to the validation of equipment  
to be distributed and used by workers in Cuba . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.  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 .  
 
(a) The approval o f products arriving in port without the appropriate certification is contrary to 
the established rules and is on ly possible when authorized at  MTSS senior level . 
 
(b) Certification is not possible unless accompanied by the relevant analysis.  The process ma y, 
however, be quicker for renewals of previously registered and approved equipment, and 
attracts a lower tariff than first -time approvals . 
 
(c) There are no limitations of that kind . 
 
(d) See point VII . 
 
8. An application for registration may be refused w here: 
 
(a) the equipment in question is not personal protective equipment under the criteria referred to 
above ; 
(b) the documentation or samples delivered by the applicant do not satisfy the requirements ; 
(c) the equipment 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 of the 
MTSS .  
 
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 and 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 th e evidence required to that end and satisfy the 
other requirements . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  For registration of the entity : 
 
(a) The information requested  in Form  1 delivered by the authority ; 
(b) For foreig n commercial branches , a copy of the trading licence issued by  the 
Chamber  of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba and the list of equipment must be attached ; 
(c) 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 country or at an  international 
notary's office in Cuba;  
(d) Cuban producers or trading entities must attach a copy of the MINCIN Central Commercial 
Registration to their application . 
 
For registra tion and approval of the equipment : 
 
(a) the information listed in Form  2 (attached ); 
(b) declaration of conformity by the equipment's manufacturer ; G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  (c) approval certificate issued by an accredited independent laboratory in the country of  origin ;  
(d) technical fact sheet on the equipment ; 
(e) physical  sample of the equipment with minimum marking  for the purposes of  identification 
(trademark, model and reference number ). 
 
11.  The certificate or technical report attesting to its approval. It is drawn up at the end of the 
relevant assessment process and is valid for the period specified in paragraph 14 below . 
 
12.  The tariffs payable for the service are set out in Ministry of Finance and Prices 
Resolutions  No. P-84 of 2001 and No.  P-83 of 2005 . 
 
13.  There a re 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 : 
 
(a) Equipment in Category  I: 5 years ; 
(b) Equipment in Category  II: 4 ye ars; 
(c) Equipment in Category  III: 3 years . 
 
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 ent ity and evidence is produced 
to that end . 
 
17.  Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  Not applicable.  
 
19.  There is no provision for mechanisms of this kind . 
 
7  NATIONAL INSTITUTE O F HYDRAULIC RESOURCE S (INRH)  
7.1  National Hydraulic Works Director ate  
Outline of systems  
1.  Agreement No.  3954 on Administrative Control , adopted by the  Executive Committee of the 
Council of Ministers on  26 March  2001, confers duties and powers on the National Institute of 
Hydraulic Resources (INRH) that  include the pl anning, regulation and control of hydraulic 
resources and the operation, technical oversight and maintenance of hydraulic works and 
installations .  
 
Agreement No.  5 of 9 July 2005 of the  Drought Task Force encharges the INRH with promulgating 
regulation s 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 stand ards for water -intensive sanitation equipment, fittings and furnishings and the 
energy efficiency ratings required for electric pumps. It further provide s that technical approval 
must be obtained from the Institute prior to the importation into Cuba or pro duction in Cuba of 
such products . These rules will have to be refined in line with technical and technological  
developments .  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  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 the energy efficiency ratings required for 
electric  pumps . 
 
3.  The import licensing system is applied on the basis of the above -mentioned classification to 
goods from all countries without exception . 
 
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 pu mps. 
 
5.  Ministry of Construction Resolution  No. 655/2009 . 
 
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 formalities 
and technical requirements .  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for applicati on for licence  
10.  The forms issued by the authority are for : 
 
(a) the importation of pumps ; 
(b) an application  for tapware . 
 
11. Technical Import Authorization (ATI ). 
 
12. Not applicable.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The technical au thorization is valid until conclusion of the contract with the importing 
undertaking . 
 
15. Not applicable.  
 
16. Import licences are not transferable . 
 
17. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  Other procedural requirements  
18. No other administrative procedures are required pr ior 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, repai r, periodical inspection and importation of this type of 
equipment.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
 
2.  The licensing system covers lifts for transporting people and goods (HS 84281000), and 
escalators and moving walkways for transporting people (HS 8 4284000), regardless of speed of 
movement and subject to the exceptions indicated in the regulations.  
 
3.  No distinction is made between countries. The licensing system applies to all imported 
equipment.  
 
4.  The regulations do not restrict quantity by co untry of origin or provenance. Their purpose is to 
ensure the necessary safety requirements for the transportation of passengers and goods.  
 
5.  Resolution No. 137 of 2004 of the Ministry of Metallurgical, Mechanical and Electronics 
Industries (SIME) and J oint 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.  
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The import approval notification is issued before the importer signs the supply contract.  
 
(b) The import approv al 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 safe ty requirements. In such cases, the applicant 
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 au thorization, provided that they have been given 
approval to market these products.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
- 49 - 
 
  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 
inform ation 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 equ ipment 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 add ress, telephone number, 
fax number and/or email address where they can be contacted.  
 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 
conta cted. 
 Details of the place where 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 requirem ents. 
 A cross -section 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 t he 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 that the investor conside rs 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 t ension 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 belts, 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 build ing has been approved.  
 
11.  The procedure is completely free of charge.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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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 appli cable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  Not applicable.  
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
9  MINISTRY OF ENERGY A ND MINING (MINEM)  
9.1  National Office for the Control of the Rational Use of Electricity (ONURE)  
Outline of systems  
 
1. Technical authorization to import elec trical 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 exhibitions 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 equipment is registered by the authority responsib le 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 tropicalization 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 equipme nt. 
 
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 classified 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 cookers 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.  All countries.  
 
4.  Licensing does not restrict the quantity or value of imports. It seeks to c ontribute to Cuba's 
policy on electricity saving.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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5.  Ministry of Basic Industry (MINBAS) Resolution No. 136 of 2009. Licensing is required for all 
entities that import the equipment described above.  
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Prior to signing  the contract of sale with the supplier.  
 
(b) The authority 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 application s is effected solely by the authority in charge.  
 
8.  The following constitute general violations to this regulation:  
 
 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 notifi cation.  
 Suspension of technical authorization 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 abov e-mentioned penalties.  
 
Eligibility of 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 p roducts 
under these subheadings.  
 
Documentational 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 f orm and email it to the authority in 
charge.  
 
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 equi pment in laboratories recogniz ed 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 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  charge will have five work ing days to consider the extension 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 INFORMAT ICS AND COMMUNICATIO NS (MINCOM)  
10.1  General Directorate of Communicatio ns (DGC)  
Outline of systems  
 
1.  Technical authorization issued by the Ministry of Informatics and Communications for imports 
of telecommunications equipment and devices, which must be approved by the customs authority 
for the purposes of importation.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
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 info rmation and communication technology (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 for 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 an d 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 suitable 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.  All countries.  
 
4.  There is no restriction as to the quantity or value of imports. Its purpose is to maintain 
technical compatibility with networks.  
 
5.  Joint Resolution MINCEX -MIC No. 1 of 2003 and MINCOM Resolution No. 272 of 201 5. 
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  Procedures  
6.  Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Prior to signing the contract of sale with the supplier.  
 
(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 . 
Eligibility of 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 Foreig n Trade to import products 
under these subheadings.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for l icence  
 
10.  Entities interested in beginning the technical acceptance process for the above -mentioned 
telecommunications equipment shall send a request to the authority in charge.  
 
11.  The technical authorization document issued by the competent authority.  
 
12.  No.  
 
13.  Not applicable.  
 
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.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  11  MINISTRY OF CONSTRUC TION  
11.1  Directorate of Standardization  
Outline of systems  
1.  Directive No. 1 for assessing the technical suitability  of non -traditional products and 
construction systems, and its regulations, and Directive No. 2 for the conformity certification of 
traditional construction products and systems. The technical suitability document (DITEC) is the 
official document issued fo r 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 designed and built in national territory do not 
compromise the safety of human b eings, 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 -tradit ional construction products and systems 
(new products or the new use of a traditional product):  
 
- Industrially manufactured products and systems.  
- Perfectly identifiable products 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 time the application is filed, are 
not covered by Cuban rules or regulations that m ake it possible to verify whether they meet key 
requirements.  
 
3.  All countries.  
 
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 Resol ution No. 933 of 1999. Licensing is mandatory for all entities that 
import the products or systems described above.  
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Prior to signing the contract of sale with the supplier.  
 
(b) No, an evaluation will be conducted by the Technical Centre for the Development of 
Construction Materials. Other institutions may be contracted if necessary. 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 ma y be provisionally suspended or invalidated where:  
 
(a)  The product or system is defective;  
(b)  The holder does not comply with the regulations or meet the conditions established in the 
DITEC;  
(c)  The original text is misused;  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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  (d)  The holder promotes o r agrees to the use of the product or system for a purpose other than 
that for which the DITEC was granted;  
(e)  Other products 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 the holder of the infringements observed and request that he present his 
case within 30 days. Any decision to suspend or invalidate th e DITEC will be made known to the 
parties concerned.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  The DITEC is available to producers, importers and traders of the products and systems 
concerned.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for applicatio n for licence  
10.  Applications shall be made in writing and must contain the express commitment to respect the 
obligations deriving 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:  
 
(a)  Name and identification of the product or system.  
(b)  Name and distinctive mark of the manufacturer.  
(c)  Main characteristics of the product or system that determine its suitability for use 
(in accordance with essential construction requirements).  
(d)  Scope.  
(e)  Packing, packaging, labelling and marking requirements.  
(f)  Handling, transportation and storage requirements.  
(g)  Rules on mainte nance and repair.  
(h)  Technical information regarding usage.  
(i)  Results of tests conducted by accredited entities and of in -factory testing, which should at 
least cover aspects relating to the essential construction requirements.  
(j)  Documents concerni ng the relevant quality system.  
(k)  Characteristics of production, processing and manufacturing control centres.  
(l)  References to use in works that are completed or under construction.  
(m)  Certificates issued by authorized institutions and any other in formation 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 d eemed necessary, a specific report shall be requested for each 
production centre.  
 
11.  The DITEC.  
 
12.  Not applicable.  
 
13.  Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of l icensing  
14.  The DITEC is valid for five years, unless the relevant file specifies a different p eriod 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 m onths 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 Directorate of Standardiza tion. 
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  17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  Not applicable.  
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
12  MINISTRY OF TRANSPOR T 
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 in ternational 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 ot her 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.  
 
Approval is considered to be the action, with all the effects thereof, that is taken by a competent 
authority to recogni ze officially, through a docume nt issued for this purpose, that:  
 
(a) 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 re quirements and characteristics stipulated for their use;  
 
(b) 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 kn owledge and professional skills of their employees, make it possible to 
ensure that such establishments are suitably qualified 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.  All countries.  
 
4.  There is no restriction as to the quantity or value of imports . 
 
5.  Resolution No. 90 of 1992, Resolution No. 304 of 204. Resolution No. 366 of 2011 of the 
Ministry of Transport. Licensing is mandatory for all entities that import the products or system s 
described above.  
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable.  
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  7.(a) Prior to signing the contract of sale with the supplier.  
 
(b) No, as it is necessary to examine the documentation submitted.  
 
(c) There are no limitations.  
 
(d) Consideration of applications is effe cted solely by the authority in charge.  
 
8.  Not applicable.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Importers authorized to import these products may apply for technical authorization . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for  licence  
 
10.  Applications shall be made in writing and must contain the following information:  
 
(a) Product name and identification.  
(b) Name and distinctive mark of the manufacturer.  
(c)  Main characteristics of the product or system that determine it s suitability for use 
(in accordance with essential requirements).  
(d)  Scope.  
(e)  Technical information regarding usage.  
(f)  Results of tests conducted by accredited entities and of in -factory testing, which should at 
least cover aspects relating to key  requirements.  
(g)  Documents concerning the relevant quality system.  
(h)  Characteristics of production, processing and manufacturing control centres.  
(i)  Certificates issued by authorized institutions and any other information considered useful.  
 
11.  T he 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. It may be invalidated, reviewed or renewed 
where there are grounds  for doing so. Renewal must be requested six months before expiry 
through the same application procedure.  
 
15.  Not applicable.  
 
16.  The certificate of approval is transferable and may be used by other importers provided that 
the product specifications an d characteristics do not change.  
 
17.  Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  Not applicable.  
 
19.  Not applicable.  
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  13  MINISTRY OF CULTURE  
13.1  National Registry of Cultural Property (RNBC)  
Outline of systems  
 
1.  For the purposes of the internationa l movement of cultural property, the National Registry of 
Cultural Property of the Republic of Cuba (RNBC) applies and administers a cultural property 
import system, under which importers may obtain a numbered document that constitutes an 
import certificat e. 
 
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 our 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 and independen ce, leaders and 
eminent figures, and events of national and international importance.  
 Collections or objects of scientific interest.  
 Products of archaeological excavations and archaeological discoveries.  
 Elements of artistic or historical monuments or a rchaeological 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.  
 Ethnological or folkloric obj ects 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 scores, 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 sit e, whether or not 
declared a national or local monument.  
 
3.  The system applies to cultural and/or heritage property originating in and coming from any 
country.  
 
4.  There is no restriction as to the quantity or value of imports. Licensing seeks to ensur e 
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 1994  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 Propert y. 
 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 Underwater Cultural H eritage, 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 these licences for goods that require 
them cannot be suspended, as the law does not provide for any exceptions.  G/LIC/N/3/CUB/8  
 
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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 the Interior.  
 
8.  Not applicable.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Licences are assigned to any natural or legal person interested in impo rting, on a temporary or 
permanent basis, any of the cultural or heritage property referred to in the Law. Applications are 
expressly made beforehand, and importers notify the Registry of the date so that the requested 
import can be verified and the corres ponding certificate validated.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  Applicants must provide the following information, in document form or by email:  
 
 The particulars of the applicant.  
 The technical data sheet for each o f 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 impor ted 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 r equired.  
 Mode of importation.  
 Place, date and time of arrival.  
 For unaccompanied 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 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 o f 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.  
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  16.  Licences are transferable between importers, provided that the change of carrier is requested 
beforehand; where property is detained pending compliance with import formalities, the carrier 
may endorse the document only once.  
 
17.  Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  Not applicable.  
 
19.  Not applic able. 
 
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