WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION  G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
31 August 2009 
 (09-4061) 
Committee on Import Licensing Original: English 
  
 
AGREEMENT ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES 
 
Notification under Article 7.3
1 of the  
Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures  
 
THE SEPARATE CUSTOMS TERRITORY OF TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINMEN AND MATSU 
 
Revision  
  
 The following communication, dated 24 August 2009,  is being circulated at the request of the 
Delegation of the Separate Customs Territo ry of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu. 
 
_______________ 
 
 
                                                     
 
1 See document G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire. G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 2  
 
  I. COMMODITIES SUBJECT TO CONDITIONAL IMPORT, IRON AND STEEL 
PRODUCTS, OPTICAL DISK MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT 
Outline of system
 
 1. Import licensing system is regulated by Article 11 of the “Foreign Trade Act” (hereinafter the 
"FTA"), which provides that commodities can be impor ted freely into the territory.  However, where 
treaties, trade agreements, national security, culture, hygiene, environmental/ecological protection, or 
policy require restriction on imports, the Negative List shall apply.  The Bureau of Foreign Trade (hereinafter the "BOFT") therefore compiles and publishes the “List of Commodities Subject to 
Import Restriction”.  The imposition of such restri ction is pursuant to the “Regulations Governing 
Import of Commodities” as mandated by the FTA. Comm odities listed therein fall into two categories: 
one is subject to import control, i.e. no import is  allowed (the BOFT can make an exception and give 
a special approval for commodities in this categor y). Commodities in the second category are subject 
to conditional import, i.e. import is allowed if c onditions (which might include the submission of an 
approval document from a relevant competent authority) set forth in the list are fulfilled. The issuance 
of an Import Permit by BOFT for the import of commodities in this category is granted upon 
fulfilment of the said conditions and is so that  the Customs Administration may facilitate the 
clearance by checking only the permits issued by BOFT.   Such commodities as Methyl Brom ide, HCFC are subject to conditional import in order to be 
in line with the Montreal Protocol, etc.  The impor t of ”Iron and Steel Products” is subject to import 
licensing procedures in order to monitor imports and requires issuance of an Import Permit by the 
BOFT; while import of “Optical Disks Manufacturi ng Equipment” is subject to measures taken for 
safeguarding intellectual property rights, and requires an import clearance certificate issued by the BOFT. The Customs Administration needs only to check the Import Permit or import clearance 
certificate issued by the BOFT, thereby facilitating th e customs clearance without the binding of other 
restrictive regulations. 
 Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 2. The commodities, which require an Import Perm it issued by the BOFT, are referenced in the 
"Consolidated List of Commodities Subject to Import Restriction and Commodities Assisted by 
Customs for Import Examination" (G/LIC/N/1/TPK M/1 and G/LIC/N/1/TPKM/2) (hereinafter the 
"Consolidated List").  Copies of the Consolidated Li st and legislation referred to in this notification 
are available for consultation in the Secretariat.   With the information on the licensing coverage  on “Iron and Steel Products”, a list of the 6 
items of Iron and Steel Products under import surv eillance has also been deposited in the WTO 
Secretariat for reference (G/LIC/N/1/TPKM/6, G/LIC/N/2/TPKM/4).   The import certification system for “Optical  Disk Manufacturing Equipment” covers the 
following items:  
 C.C.C. Code 8477.10.00.10-4, 8479.89.90.10-9, and 8480.71.00.10-5. 
  The import licensing/certification system regarding conditional import, ”iron and steel products” and “optical disk manufacturing equi pment ”, under the BOFT is automatic, though the 
BOFT Import Permit for commodities subject to cond itional import required often follows only upon 
the meeting of such conditions as the approval of other relevant agencies. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 3 
 
 
  3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries and customs 
territories, unless otherwise specified in the accession protocol of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu or the agre ement on the terms of accession to the WTO. 
 4. The import permits issued by the BOFT are not designed to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports; rather they only serve the purpose of confirming to the Customs authorities that the 
prescribed import conditions have been met. With th e assistance of the BOFT to verify the importers' 
qualifications and the compliance of the imports with the import regulations through the BOFT’s 
Import Permit issuance, the Customs Administrati on can accelerate the customs clearance.  The 
purpose for the issuance of an Import Clearance Cert ificate for optical disk manufacturing equipment 
is to prevent infringements of intellectual propert y rights.  There is no other import procedure for 
these commodities that can be substituted to in order to avoid the delay encountered from this customs 
clearance procedure.   5.      Although the BOFT licensing/certification system is governed by the “Regulations Governing 
Import of Commodities” mandated by the FTA a nd the “Optical Disk Manufacturing Equipment 
Import Export Regulations” which are mandated by the Optical Disk Law, repeal of the system does 
not require legislative action.  Procedures
 
 
6. Not applicable. 
 7. Application for a licence:  (a) May be filed on any workday. 
(b)  Will be granted within twenty (20) minutes. 
(c)  Has no limitations as to the period of the y ear in or for which application may be made. 
(d) Is considered and effected by either BO FT and its Kaohsiung Office, MOEA United Service 
Centre (Central Taiwan), Economic Processi ng Zone Administration or Science-based 
Industrial Park Administration. 
 
8. None. The reasons for any refusal are given to  the applicant electronically.  In the event of 
refusal, by law, the applicant has a right to app eal by following the procedures provided by the law. 
 Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 
9. According to the FTA and the “Regulations  Governing Import of Commodities”, only firms 
registered with the BOFT as importers are permitted to engage in the business of importation. Firms 
or individuals not registered as importers may impo rt if the imported goods are for the firms' or 
individuals' own use.   Based on the “Regulations Governing Regist ration and Administration of Exporters and 
Importers”, firms engaging in export/import or sal e business listed on its business licence are eligible 
for registration. There is no registration fee required.   Although the list of registered importers is not 
published, the BOFT welcomes any inquiry on it.  Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 
10. With the application (See ANNEX I), an im porter is required to supply the documents 
referred to in the Consolidated List, where th e relevant import regulation codes are provided. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 4  
 
  11. Upon actual importation, only the Import Perm it or import clearance certificate and the 
documents for customs clearance are required.  12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge.  
13. There is no deposit or advance payment requirement.  
 Conditions of licensing
 
 14. According to the Regulations Governing Im port of Commodities, an Import Permit issued by 
the BOFT shall be valid for six months from the day of issuance except in very few situations where 
the quota is administered periodically.  If importa tion cannot be made within the prescribed validity 
period, the importer may apply to the BOFT for extension of the validity. The import clearance certificate for Optical Disk Manufacturing Equipment has no time limit.  
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization of a licence. 
 16. Licences are not transferable between importers.  17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuance of a licence besides those specified in 
the relevant import regulations. 
 
Other procedural requirements
 
 18. No.  However, if the imported goods are s ubject to quarantine or inspection, there is a 
quarantine or inspection procedure apart from import licensing. 
 
19. Foreign exchange is automatically provid ed by the banking authorities for goods to be 
imported.  
II. METHYL BROMIDE, HYDROCHLOROFLUOROCARBONS (HCFCS):  
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ADMINISTRATION (EPA) 
Outline of system
 
 1. This licensing system is the control measure taken as necessary to be in compliance with the 
Montreal Protocol. Any applicants wishing to import these controlled substances shall apply for 
import license and quota in advance. The granting requirements and procedures are specified within 
the “Methyl Bromide Management Regulation s” and the "HCFCs Consumption Management 
Regulations" set and administered by the EPA. With such license, the applican t then can acquire the 
Import Permit from the Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT) of the MOEA, which will be used for 
clearance of the shipments at the custom.   Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 
2. The products under this system are subject  to non-automatic licensing, and they are: 
 (a) Methyl Bromide: C.C.C. 2903.30.90.21-5, 3808.99.92.10-7. (b) HCFCs: C.C.C. 2903.49.00.11-4, 2903.49.00.21-2, 2903.49.00.22-1, 2903.49.00.23-0, 
2903.49.00.24-9, and 2903.49.00.32-9. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 5 
 
 
   The following goods, which are composed of  chemicals controlled under the Montreal 
Protocol, are also covered by this system: C. C. C. 2903.49.00.90-8, 3824.71.00.00-2, 3824.79.00.00-4, and 3824.90.99.31-4.  3. Imports shall be made only from signatories to the Montreal Protocol or from countries or 
areas that   have been approved and promulgated by the Environmental Protection Administration. 
 4. This system is made in compliance with  the provisions of the Montreal Protocol. 
 5. This system could be abolis hed without legislative approval. 
 
Procedures
 
 6.I. Information concerning granting and allocati ng of import quota is clearly stipulated by the 
EPA, and has been published both in the Gazettes of EPA and release to the press. 
 
II.(a) Methyl Bromide: Permission of importa tion will only be issued for quarantine or 
pre-shipment treatment uses. An approval issued  shall be valid for six months. Application for 
approval is filed on a six-monthly basis. 
(b) HCFCs: The quota is set annually. The domes tic quota is calculated by multiplying the base 
year consumption provided in the Montreal Prot ocol by a deduction rate.  Quota is allocated 
to firms based on total quota and past performan ce of firms with priorities given to users. 
 III.(a) Methyl Bromide: Each entity wishing to  import shall report its intended import amount for 
the coming six months period prior to the end of February and August of each year. Accompanying with document showing the quantity of actual clearance of shipment in the 
previous period. Unused quota for the first half  year could be carried over to the second half 
of the same year, but cannot be carried over to the next year. 
(b) HCFCs: Importers or users who have obtained quotas may apply for import.   IV.(a) Methyl Bromide: Upon the date of issuing of importation permission, applications may begin 
filing for acquiring import permit. 
(b) HCFCs: Quotas shall be issued on a six-monthly basis and are to be used within that period. 
 V. Applications for approval are processed within 7 to 30 days.  VI. There is no waiting period between the granti ng of licences and the date of opening of the 
period of importation. 
 VII. Import approval must be granted by the EPA before obtaining the import permit from the 
BOFT. 
 VIII. The use and the quantity of the goods to be approved for import must conform to the scope 
provided in the Montreal Protocol; only then may a special case approval be issued. Quota 
allocations use past practical merit as a standard. 
 IX. These approval issuance procedures adopt import control to limit import quantity. There are 
no bilateral agreements or export restraint a rrangements; no import licence from the exporting 
country is required. 
 X. The quantity is controlled by the importing country. No import licence from the exporting 
country is required. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 6  
 
  XI. No approvals or licences are issued on the c ondition that goods importe d must be re-exported 
and not sold in the domestic market.   7. Not applicable.  
8. Reasons for any refusal are given to the appli cant in writing. In the event of refusal, by law, 
the applicant has a right to appeal by following the procedures provided by the law.  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 
9. Not every individual, company or organizati on has the qualifications to apply for a licence. 
An applicant must prove that the use and the volu mes will conform to the scope provided for in the 
Montreal Protocol.  Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 
10.A. For Methyl Bromide, the documents  required for an application are: 
 (1) Documented proof of importer/exporter registration (requested if it is the first time 
they have applied). 
 (2) Documented proof of the quantity/volume imported and a photocopy of importer’s 
import permit in the previous period. 
 (3) A photocopy of import declaration. 
 (4) An application to import methyl bromid e for quarantine or pre-shipment treatment 
shall separately submit evidentiary docum ents with respect to such purposes. 
 B. For HCFCs, the documents required for an application are: 
 (1) Documented proof of importer/exporter registration (requested if it is the first time 
they have applied). 
 (2) A table showing quantity statistics for th e applicant’s import of controlled substances 
imported. 
 (3) A photocopy of import declaration.  (4) An application to import HCFCs shall separately submit evidentiary documents with 
respect to such purposes. 
 11. Upon actual importation, an import permit i ssued by the BOFT and documents required for 
customs clearance shall be submitted.  
12. No licensing fee or other administrative fee is required. 
 13. No deposit or advance payment for the application shall be required. 
 Conditions of licensing
 
 
14.A. Methyl Bromide: import approval is valid fo r six months. Every six months application must 
be made again for import approval. An approva l can be extended for another six months for 
only one chance if the application for it was filed in two months before expiration. 
 B. HCFCs: import approval is valid for six months and no extension is allowed. 
 
15. Unused quota shall be deducted from the quota for the next year.  16. Quota can only be transferred between importers  with the same eligibility, but quota allocated 
to users is not transferable. G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 7 
 
 
  17. There are no additional conditions besi des the quantitative limits of the quotas. 
 Other procedural requirements
 
 18. There are no other administrative procedures apart from the aforesaid requirements. 
 
19. Foreign exchange is automatically provid ed by the banking authorities for goods to be 
imported.  
III. BREEDING LIVESTOCK/POULTRY AND GENETIC RESOURCES, 
GENETICALLY MODIFIED BREEDIN G STOCK/POULTRY AND GENETIC 
RESOURCES 
Council of Agriculture 
 ("Genetic" for the purposes of this import system re fers to the reproductive resources of semen and/or 
embryos for livestock and poultry breeding and not  to genetic engineering resources or purposes). 
 Outline of system
 
 1. In order to ensure a healthy environment fa vourable to the livestock raising business, and an 
adequate level of protection of the safe transfer , handing and use of genetically modified breeding 
stock/poultry and genetic resources resulting from modern biotechnology th at may have adverse 
effects on the conservation and sustainable use of bi ological diversity, to preserve public health and 
safety of human beings and animals, and prevent the entrance from foreign countries of infectious 
diseases and/or exotic pests, imported animals are sc reened and controlled to ensure that they are 
suited to be raised in the domestic environment and to prevent sick or improper breeds from being 
imported, so as to meet the needs of developing a sound animal industry, the Council of Agriculture 
promulgated the “Guidelines for Screening Appli cations for the Letter of Approval for the 
Importation of Breeding Livestock and Poultry an d Genetic Resources” and “The guidelines needed 
for obtaining approval for the import and export of  genetically modified breeding stock and poultry 
and genetic resources” according to the “Animal In dustry Act”. Importers of  breeding animals and 
genetic resources (the genetic resources of animal  embryos and semen) must first obtain a letter of 
approval from the Council of Agriculture with  which to apply for customs clearance. 
 Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 2. The licensing system is non-automatic.  The products covered and their C.C.C. Codes are as 
follows:  
 Breeding livestock/poultry animals and genetic resources:  0101.10.00.10-4, 0102.10.00.00-5, 0103.10.00.00-4, 0104.20.00.10-9, 0105.11.10.00-9, 0105.12.10.00-8, 0105.19.10.00-1, 0105.94.10.00-9, 0105.99.10.00-4, 0105.93.10.00-0, 0106.19.10.21-5, 0106.39.00.24-0, 0511.10.00.00-0, 0511.99.91.20-0, 0511.99.92.20-9, and 
0511.99.99.40-8. 
 Genetically modified breeding livestock/ poultry animals and genetic resources: 
0101.10.00.10-4,0102.10.00.00-5, 0103.10.00.00-4, 0104.20.00.10-9, 0105.11.10.00-9, 
0105.12.10.00-8, 0105.19.10.00-1, 0105.94.10.00-9, 0105.99.10.00-4, 0105.93.10.00-0, 
0106.19.10.21-5, 0106.39.00.24-0, 0511.10.00.00-0, 0511.99.91.20-0, 0511.99.92.20-9, and 0511.99.99.40-8.  
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 8  
 
  3. Except if it is a case of a disease-infected area, the import areas are not restricted other than 
according to the WTO agreement and the WTO accession agreement.  4. The purpose of issuing a letter of approval for importation is to facilitate the control of animal 
species or breeds, bio-safety and to quarantine and track the imported breeding animals and genetic 
resources.  Not included are experimental animals for scientific and research utilization, which may 
be imported through specially approved experimental  projects verified or certified by the related 
research organizations for the purposes of productive performance tests.  5. The rules are made in accordance with the “Guidelines for Screening Applications for the 
Letter of Approval for the Importation of Breeding Livestock and Poultry and Genetic Resources”, 
and “The guidelines needed for obtaining approval for the import and export of genetically modified 
breeding stock and poultry and genetic  resources”.  The abolition of these rules would not require the 
approval of or passage by the Legislative Yuan.  
Procedures
 
 
6. There is no restriction regarding import quantity or value. 
 7.(a)  For importation of breeding livestock/poultry and genetic resources: importers may apply for 
letter of approval any time they need to do so. Su ch application must be filed with the Bureau 
of Business Management of the specific municipa lity or county in which the animal(s) are to 
be raised, for examination and review. The a pplication document will then be forwarded to 
the Council of Agriculture for approval and issuan ce. Application for the letter of approval for 
importation of breeding poultry is made with the National Animal Industry Foundation, which 
first examines the application documents a nd then forwards them to the Council of 
Agriculture for issuance. App lication for the letter of appr oval for importation of genetic 
resources can be filed with the Council of Agriculture directly. It requires five working days to process the documents at each processing unit.   An applicant should obtain the letter of 
approval for importation within ten working days. 
 For importation of genetically modified breed ing livestock/poultry and genetic resources: 
importers may apply for letter of  approval any time they need to  do so. Such application can 
be filed with the Council of Agriculture dir ectly. An applicant should obtain the letter of 
approval for importation de pends on individual case. 
(b) The application for letter of approval fo r importation must follow the above-mentioned 
procedures for examination and verification. It can not be approved immediately upon its 
submission. 
(c) There is no restriction as to any specific seas on for importers to apply; they can make their 
applications whenever they need to do so. 
(d) The Council of Agriculture is the only competen t central organization that governs and issues 
letters of approval for the importation. 
 8. All applications made in accordance with  the above-mentioned “Guidelines” shall not be 
denied.  For any non-conforming, rejected applicati on, a statement of the reason shall be made to the 
applicant, who may file a complaint to the Council of  Agriculture or make appeal to the higher-level, 
supervising agency of this Council, in  accordance with the Law of Appeals. 
 Eligibility of importers to apply for license
 
 
9.(a)  For breeding livestock and poultry:  The applicant must be a registered livestock  or poultry farm owner, but a trading company 
can be entrusted to handle the app lication procedures on their behalf.  G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 9 
 
 
  (b)  For genetic resources (including embryos and semen for livestock and poultry breeding): 
 A registered livestock or poultry farm owner or a registered trader are both eligible to apply 
 for a letter of approval, on their own behalf, ( as well as the trader can on behalf of a farm 
 owner).  (c)  For Genetically modified breeding livest ock/poultry animals and genetic resources: 
 The applicants are restricted to those who raise and breed breeding stock and poultry, a 
research institute and those who do business with breeding stoc k and poultry, but a trading 
company can be entrusted to handle the application procedures on their behalf. 
 Documentational and other require ments for application for license
 
 
10.(a) Breeding livestock/poultry animals and genetic resources: The applicant must obtain the 
documents required for the application from the competent governments of the particular municipalities or counties and from the Council of  Agriculture. The required documents that 
must be included in the application are: the a pplication form, the applicant’s farm registration 
certificate, a proforma-invoice from the overseas exporters. For breeding livestock and semen 
and/or embryos importation, a pedigree certificate and the qualified performance data are also 
required. 
(b)  Genetically modified breeding livest ock/poultry animals and genetic resources:
 The applicant 
must obtain the documents required for the application from the Council of Agriculture. The required documents that must be included in the application are: the application form, a 
photocopy of the certification papers of the appli cant, Two copies of the related field test of 
the imported goods, which is completed by the in stitute certified by the exporting country and 
of the bio-safe evaluation report in both the original language and Chinese translation, Two copies of the sequence data of the transferre d genes, there performance locus, performance 
amount and other documents good enough for certifi cation, One copy of the approving papers 
issued by the competent authorities of th e exporting country (including the Chinese 
translation), One copy of the explication papers  concerning the usage, the location where they 
are bred or preserved and the management fashion of the imported goods. 
 11. For customs declaration, the applicant sh all need to present the letter of approval for 
importation issued by the Council of Agriculture, al ong with all the required documents to apply to 
customs for import. For quarantine requirements, the applicant has to make the quarantine application 
to the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health In spection and Quarantine (also known as BAPHIQ) for 
reservation of retention space at a quarantine station.  After this has all been taken care of, the importer 
can go ahead with the work of importing the animals/genetic resources.  
12.  No payment or fee shall be collected for the application regarding import permit-issuance and 
other administrative or management procedures.  13. No deposit or payment shall be incurred in rela tion to the application for letter of approval for 
importation issuance.  
Conditions of licensing
 
 
14. An approval letter shall be valid from the first day following its issue for a period of six 
months. The letter shall become i nvalid after its expiration date. 
 
15.  Applicants who do not import the commoditie s as specified in the letter of approval for 
importation shall not be penalized.  16. The letter of approval for importation applies only to the particular applicant and is not 
transferable. G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 10  
 
  17.(a)  Breeding livestock/poultry animals and genetic  resources: to move the imported goods to any 
other location within the tracing and quarantine pe riod which is altogether six months, notice 
of intent to do so must be filed with the competent governments of the specific municipalities or counties before being allowed to move. Shou ld any applicant move such animals without 
filing or reporting, they shall be denied issu ance of any letters of approval for importation for 
the ensuing two years. 
(b)  Genetically modified breeding livestock/pou ltry animals and genetic resources: After the 
imported goods complete the immunization proced ures in flocks and are thus cleared, they 
have to be sent straightaway to the field test  premises for assessment in accordance with “the 
Regulations of the field test and bio-safe ev aluation of the genetically modified breeding 
stock and poultry”. They cannot be reclaimed, put to use  nor promulgated before they 
complete and pass the assessment.  
 Other procedural requirements
 
 
18.(a)  Other administrative procedures mainly ha ve to do with the qu arantine work, for which 
application must be made to the BAPHIQ, in accordance with “The Statute for Prevention and 
Control of Infectious Animal Diseases.” 
(b)  The import involving genetic manipulati on shall follow other related regulations. 
 19.  The foreign exchange needed for the impor t commodities shall be automatically provided by 
the governing banks in charge of such import business. 
 
IV. YELLOW-FIN TUNA, BLUEFIN TUNA SOU8THERN BLUE FIN TUNA, 
SWORDFISH, BIG-EYE TUNA:  FI SHERIES AGENCY, COUNCIL OF 
AGRICULTURE 
Outline of system
 
 1. Import licensing for the products specified below is regulated by the "Notice of Application for  Written Approval License to Import Yellow-fi n Tuna", "Notice of Application for Written 
Approval Licence to Import, Export and Re-export Blue fin Tuna", "Notice of Application for Written 
Approval Licence to Import, Export and Re-export Sout hern Bluefin Tuna", "Notice of Application 
for Written Approval Licence to Import, Export and Re-export Swordfish",  "Notice of Application 
for Written Approval Licence to Import, Export and Re-export Big-eye Tuna", and is administered by 
the Council of Agriculture. Before being allowed to import, importers must obtain written approval 
from the Fisheries Agency, Council of Agriculture.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 2. The products under the System include  yellow-fin tuna (C.C.C. 0302.32.00.00-7; 
0303.42.00.00-4), Bluefin Tuna (C.C.C. Code. 030 1.94.00.00-3; 0302.35.00.00-4; 0303.45.00.00-1; 
0304.19.90.31-6; 0304.29.90.31-4), Southern Blue fin Tuna (C.C.C. 0301.95.00.00-2; 0302.36.00.00-
3; 0303.46.00.00-0; 0304.19.90.32-5; 0304.29.90.32-2), Swordfish (C.C.C.0302.67.00.00-5; 
0303.61.00.00-0; 0304.11.00.00-0; 0304.21.00.00-8; 0304.91.10.00-1; 0304.91.90.00-4), and Big-eye 
Tuna (C.C.C. 0303.44.00.00-2; 0304.29.90.33-2).    The licensing system is non-automatic.    
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries and customs 
territories, unless otherwise specified in the accession protocol of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu or the agre ement on its terms of accession to the WTO. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 11 
 
 
  4. The licensing system is intended to protect marine ecology. 
 5. The System may be abolished without legislative approval.  
 Procedures
 
 
6. Not applicable.  7. Applications for an import approval:  
(a) May be filed on any workday. 
(b) Cannot be approved immediately as examination requires ten workdays. 
(c) Have no limitations as to the period of th e year during which they may be submitted and 
approved. 
(d) Are considered and effected by one administrative body only. 
 
8. None. The reasons for any refusal are given to  the applicant in writi ng.  In the event of 
refusal, by law, the applicant has a right to app eal by following the procedures provided by the law. 
 Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 
9. The applicant shall be an importer. 
 Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 10. An application shall be supported by an a pplication form, and accompanied by one photocopy 
of the applicant’s company licence or business licence.  Also required are an original copy of the 
statistical documentation for bluefin tuna, bigeye tuna, swordfish and sout hern bluefin tuna, the 
certificate of origin for yellowfin tuna issued by the government of the flag country of the fishing 
vessel that harvested the product in the shipment, and one original of the foreign-issued quotation 
form.  
11. Upon actual importation, the import declaration must be checked and the import approval will 
be issued on the “Integrated Agriculture Permit and Customs Declaration Platform” of Council of 
Agriculture.   12. No fee is charged for applications. 
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in association with the issuance of an approval.   
 Conditions of licensing
 
 14. An approval is valid for three months. A ne w application shall be filed upon expiration. 
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization of an approval.  16. Approval documents are not tr ansferable between importers. 
 
17. If importation is prohibited because of changes in  domestic or foreign laws and regulations or 
it is not feasible, the approval document shall be  null and void. Quarantine and other matters 
concerning the importation shall be govern ed by other applicable regulations. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 12  
 
  Other procedural requirements
 
 18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from obtaining an approval document prior to importation.  
19. Foreign exchange is automatically provid ed by the banking authorities for goods to be 
imported.  
V. TOBACCO, ALCOHOL PRODUCTS AND UNDENATURED ETHYL ALCOHOL: 
NATIONAL TREASURY AGENCY, MINISTRY OF FINANCE, INDUSTRIAL 
DEVELOPMENT BUREAU, MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC AFFAIRS, MINISTRY OF 
NATIONAL DEFENSE 
Outline of system
 
 1. The import licensing system is regulated by “The Tobacco and Alcohol Administration Act”,  
“The Enforcement Rules of The Tobacco and Alc ohol Administration Act” and “The Regulations 
Governing Undenatured Ethyl Alcohol”, and is admini stered by the Ministry of Finance (hereinafter 
the “MOF”).  However, licences are issued by th e Industrial Development Bureau, Ministry of 
Economic Affairs (hereinafter the “IDB”) or the Ministry of National Defense (herein after the “MND”) if the ethyl alcohol is for use in industries other than the manufacturing of alcohol products or medicated alcohol or is for military use. 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing 
 
 2. The licensing system covers tobacco, alcohol, and undenatured ethyl alcohol, as identified by 
the C.C.C. Code: 2103.90.90, 2203~2208 (with the exception of 2207.10.10 and 2207.20), 2402-2403 
(with the exception of 2403.91.00 and 2403.99.10).  The system is   subject to non-automatic 
licensing.  3. The system applies to goods origin ating in or coming from all countries. 
 4. The system is intended to ensure the sound management of imports pursuant to the above-
mentioned acts and regulations. 
 5. The acts, regulations and app lication procedures in relation to this import licensing system are 
available at the National Treasury Agency, Ministry of Finance website (www.nta.gov.tw
). (Certain 
cases require further import approval).  Repeal of the system would require legislative approval. 
 
Procedures  
 6. Not applicable.  7. Applications for licences or import approvals: 
 
(a)-(b) Although there is no provision governing how fa r in advance of importation application must 
be made for a licence, a licence may  be issued w ithin 7 to 45 working  days from the date of 
application according to the nature of the docum entation required to process the application.  
(c) May be submitted on any working day. 
(d) Consideration of licence applications is e ffected by the central competent authority MOF. 
However, import approvals are granted by the IDB if the ethyl alcohol is for use in industries other than the manufacturing of al cohol products or medicated alcohol.  In case that the ethyl 
alcohol is for military use, import approvals are granted by the MND. G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 13 
 
 
  8. None. The reasons for any refusal are given to  the applicant in writi ng.  In the event of 
refusal, by law, the applicant has a right to app eal by following the procedures provided by the law. 
 Eligibility of importers to apply for licence 
 
 
9. Pharmaceutical firms, manufacturers and milita ry institutions (including military schools and 
military hospitals), subject to the administrative rules and verification of correct usage, are eligible to 
apply for import approvals. Information about regist ration fees and the list of authorized importers are 
available on the NTA website.  
Documentational and other require ments for application for licence 
 
 10.(a) For a licence to import tobacco/alcohol: App licants are required to submit the following 
documents with their application: Photocopies of the company licence, their business registration, national identification card of the responsible person, and receipts of the 
examination and certification fees. 
(b) For approval to import undenatured ethyl alcohol:   (1)  NTA approval:     (1.1) For processing or repackaging: applicants are required to submit the 
following documents with their app lication: Photocopies of their 
tobacco/alcohol importer permit license, national identification card of the 
responsible person, certificate of origin, certificate of safety issued by 
competent Fire Agency, alcohol manufacturing permit license, and a written authorization from the original producer for such repackaging operation. In the case that importation of  undenatured ethyl alcohol is for other persons to process or repackage, the above-mentione d documents are required, as well as 
a contract of commission to import. 
  (1.2) For medicated alcohol: Applican ts are required to submit the following 
documents with their application: Photocopies of license of the pharmaceutical firm, pharmaceutical permit, national identification card of the responsible person, certificate of  origin, relevant document which 
indicates the amount of ethyl alcohol used in the previous year, undertaking 
that the alcohol be used for medicinal use, and/or contract of commission to 
import. 
 (2)  IDB approval:    (2.1) For industrial purposes excluding alcohol manufacturing and pharmaceutical 
use: Statement of usage and manufacturing permit licence. 
  (2-2)   For industrial purposes of pharmaceutical use excluding medicated alcohol: 
Statement of usage, manufacturing permit licence, pharmaceutical business permit license, and permit certificate of the pharmaceuticals. 
 (3)  MND approval: Procurement document of  the MND; certifications which show the 
undenatured ethyl alcohol is to be used in military agencies, military schools, and 
military hospitals. 
 
11. Upon importation, an importer is requi red to submit the following documents: 
 (a) For tobacco and alcohol produc ts and undenatured ethyl alcohol for manufacturing alcoholic 
beverages: a photocopy of the tobacco/alcohol importer licen ce is required.  When an 
importer imports undenatured ethyl alcohol, an  import approval by the authorities as in 
Item 10(b)-(1.1) is required. 
(b) For importation of alcohol products, undena tured ethyl alcohol for producing alcoholic 
beverages or tobacco products to be repack aged, a certificate of origin is required. G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 14  
 
  (c) Undenatured ethyl alcohol not for producin g alcoholic beverages: Import approval by 
authorities as in Item 10(b)-(1.2), (2) or (3).          
 12. Examination fees (NTD2,000) and certification fees (NTD2, 000) are charged for the tobacco 
alcohol importer licence. There is no other administ rative fee for application of import approval. 
 
13. There is no deposit or advance payment require ment associated with the issuance of licences 
or import approval.  Conditions of licensing 
 
 
14. A tobacco/alcohol importer licence is valid before surrendered or revoked by the central 
competent authority.  An approval to import undena tured ethyl issued by the IDB is valid for one 
year. The period of validity of approvals ot her than the above-men tioned is six months. 
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization of import licences or approvals. 
 16. Licences and import approvals are non-transferable between importers.  17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuance of licences or approvals. 
 
Other procedural requirements
 
 18. There are no other administrative procedur es, apart from the above-mentioned procedures. 
 19. Foreign exchange is automatically provid ed by the banking authorities for goods to be 
imported. 
 
VI. OIL AND PETROLEUM PRODUCTS: BUREAU OF ENERGY, MINISTRY OF 
ECONOMIC AFFAIRS 
Outline of system
 
 
1. The licensing of imports of oil and petroleu m products specified below is regulated by the 
“Petroleum Administration Act”.  The importer is required to submit an approval from the Bureau of 
Energy, MOEA to customs for clearance.  Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 
2. The licensing under this system is non-automa tic.  The oil and petroleum products covered by 
this system are naphtha, crude oil, gasoline, jet fuel, kerosene, diesel oil, fuel oil and liquefied 
petroleum gas.  Their C.C.C. codes are as follows:  2709.00.10.00-8, 2709.00.90.00-1, 2710.11.10.00-2, 2710.11.91.00-4, 2710.11.92.00-3, 
2710.11.99.00-6, 2710.19.11.00-3, 2710.19.19.00-5, 2710.19.20.00-2, 2710.19.31.00-9, 
2710.19.39.00-1, 2710.19.41.00-7, 2710.19.49.00-9, 2710.19.64.00-9, 2710.19.67-00-6, 2711.12.00-00-2, 2711.13.00-00-1, 2711.19.10-00-3, 2711.29.10-00-1, 2901.10.20-00-0, 3606.10.00.00-0.   
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries and customs 
territories, unless otherwise specified in the accession protocol of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, or the ag reement on the terms of accession to the WTO. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 15 
 
 
  4. The purposes of the system are to promote the sound development of the oil industry, 
maintain order in the production and sales in the o il market, ensure the steady supply of oil; to 
develop the national economy and enhance people’s live lihoods, and at the same time to give equal 
consideration to environmental protection.  Th ere is no other method for the import of these 
substances that can substitute for this current system. 
 
5. The system is managed in accordance with th e “Petroleum Administration Act”.  Repeal of 
the system would require legislative approval.  Procedures
 
 
6. Not applicable.  7.(a) An application can be submitted on any work day.   (b) The import approval cannot be granted i mmediately on request.  The screening on the 
application will be completed within two working days.  
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for import 
approval and/or importation may be made. 
(d) Applicants need to approach only one administrative body.    
8. An application will not be refused for any r eason other than failure to meet the prescribed 
conditions. The reasons an application is refused are furnished to the applicant.  An applicant who is 
refused can file a complaint with th e refusing agency or appeal to it s superior agency according to the 
relevant provisions of the Appeal Law.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for import approval
 
 9. Please refer to the governing regulations (see response to Question 5), which are available for 
reference in the Secretariat.  Documentational and other requirement s for application for import approval
 
 
10. Details and document requirements related to  an application are set forth in the governing 
regulations (see response to Question 5), which ar e available for reference in the Secretariat. 
 
11. Upon the arrival of imports , importers are required to s ubmit the import approval or 
Certificate No. (14 codes).  12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge.  13. There is no deposit or adva nce payment requirement associat ed with the issuance of an 
approval. 
 Conditions of licensing
 
 14. The validity of an import approval is 1(one) m onth from the date of issuance, but this can be 
increased or decreased by the agen cy that manages these import approvals when looking at the needs 
of the practical conditions.   15. There is no penalty for the non-utilizati on of an import approval or a portion of it. 
 16. Import approvals are not transferable between importers. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 16  
 
  17. There are no conditions attached to the issuance of an import approval. 
 Other procedural requirements
 
 18. Imported products have to pass inspection by Bu reau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection, 
MOEA.  
 19. Foreign exchange is automatically provi ded by the banking authority for goods to be 
imported.  VII. FISHING BOATS: FISHERIES AGENCY, COUNCIL OF AGRICULTURE; 
VESSELS: DEPARTMENT OF NAVIGATION AND AVIATION, MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATIONS (MOTC); CIVIL AIRCRAFT: CIVIL AERONAUTICS ADMINISTRATION, MOTC 
Outline of system
 
 
1. Import of fishing boats:  Pursuant to the “F isheries Act” and “the Guidelines for the Issuance 
of Fishing Boat Building Permits and Fishing Li cences”, importers shall apply for an approval from 
the Council of Agriculture (COA) through the muni cipal or county/city government where the 
proposed port of registry is located.    
 Import of vessels: Pursuant to “Shipping Law”, “Regulations for Administrating Vessel 
Carriers and Vessel Chartering Operators”, “Regulations for Administrating Small Ships”, importers shall apply for an import approval from the Minist ry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) 
through the local competent authorities that have jurisdiction over the water territory where the 
vessels shall sail or where the vessels shall berth.   
 
 Import of civil aircraft:   Importers shall apply for an approval from the Civil Aeronautics 
Administration (CAA), MOTC through the authority- in-charge for inspection, according to the Civil 
Aviation Law, Regulation of Civil Air Transport Enterprise and the Regula tion Governing General 
Aviation.  
Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 2. The licensing system is non-automatic.  The products covered are as follows:  (a) Fishing boat: C.C.C. Code: 8902.00.10.10-9, 8902.00.10.90-2 and 8902.00.20.00-9. 
(b) Vessel: C.C.C. Code: 8901100000-2, 8901200000-0, 8901300000-8, 8901901000-3, 
8901902000-1, 8901903000-9, 8901909000-6, 8903910000-2, 8903920000-1, 8904000000-1, 8905100000-8, 8905902000-7 and 8906009000-0. 
(c) Civil aircraft: C.C.C. Code: 8801.10.00.20-9, 8801.90.11.00-3, 8801.90.12.00-2, 
8801.90.20.00-2, 8802.11.00.00-1, 8802.12.00.00-0, 8802.20.00.00-0, 8802.30.00.00-8, 8802.40.00.00-6, 8802.60.00.00-1, 8805.29.00.00-8. 
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries and customs territories, unless otherwise specified in the accession protocol of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu or the agre ement on the terms of accession to the WTO. 
 
4. The system is to ensure maintaining conti nuing use of fishery resources, to maintain safe 
navigable vessels within the territory of domestic wa ters and proper order within the water territory, 
and to maintain the order of air transport industry and the flight safety.  There are no other methods 
that can substitute for the current system. G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 17 
 
 
  5. Any abolition of the “Fisheries Act”, “Shipping Law”, and “Civil Aviation Law” would 
require the endorsement of the Legislative Yuan .  Abolition concerning “the Guidelines for the 
Issuance of Fishing Boat Building Permits and Fishing Licences”, “Operating Rules for Screening 
Applications to Import Fishing Vessels using New Fishing Methods”, “Administering Approach of 
Recreational Fishery”, “Regulations for Administrating Vessel Carriers and Vessel Chartering 
Operators”, “Regulations for Administrating Small Ships”, “the Regulation of Civil Air Transport 
Enterprise”, “the Regulations Governing General Av iation” and “the Ultra-light Vehicle Regulation” 
do not need to be endorsed by the legislative branch of the government.   Procedures
 
 
6. Not applicable.  7.(a) No time requirement before importation is pr escribed for acquisition of an import approval.  
(b) A licence cannot be granted immediately on request.  For fishing boats, it takes about 10 to 
20 days. For vessels, within about 10 – 15 days. For civil aircraft, about 15 working days. 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which applications for a licence 
and/or importation may be made. 
(d) Applicants have to approach only one administrative body.  8. None. The reasons for any refusal are given to  the applicant in writi ng.  In the event of 
refusal, by law, the applicant has a right to app eal by following the procedures provided by the law. 
 Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 9. The import of fishing boats is restricted to applicants from the Separate Customs Territory of 
Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu.  For vessels, the application shall be filed by the owner of the 
vessels or by the owner's agent.  For civil aircraft, all persons and legal entities of the territory are 
eligible.  Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 
10. There are standard application forms.  Deta ils and documentational requi rements related to an 
application are set forth in the governing regulations  (see response to Question 5), which are available 
for reference in the Secretariat.   11. Upon actual importation, an im porter is required to submit the import approval issued by the 
competent authorities. 
 12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge.  13. There is no deposit or adva nce payment requirement associat ed with the issuance of an 
approval. 
 
Conditions of licensing
 
 14. An import approval for fishing boats, vessels a nd civil aircrafts is valid for six months, and 
may be extended if necessary. 
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization of an approval or a portion of it.  16. Approvals are not transf erable between importers. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 18  
 
  17. There are no conditions attached to the issuance of an approval. 
 Other procedural requirements
 
 18. There are no other administrative procedures apart from obtaining an approval document 
prior to importation. 
 19. Foreign exchange is automatically provid ed by the banking authorities for goods to be 
imported.  VIII.  FIREARMS, AMMUNITION, SIMULATION GUNS, CONTROLLED SWORDS, 
POLICE WEAPONS; INDUSTRIAL USE EXPLOSIVES: NATIONAL POLICE ADMINISTRATION, MINISTRY OF INTERIOR; INDUSTRIAL USE EXPLOSIVES: BUREAU OF MINES, MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC AFFAIRS 
Outline of system
 
 
1. For upholding the safety and peace of society,  applicants importing the products specified 
below need to apply for an import approval before proceeding for customs clearance.  
  Import of Firearms, Ammunition,  Simulation Guns:  Importers shall apply for an approval 
from the National Police Administration, Ministry of Interior ﹙hereinafter the "NPA" ﹚pursuant to 
the “Control of Firearms, Ammunition and Weaponry” and the “Measure Governing Permission and 
Administration of Firearms, Ammunition and Cutting, Pointed Weapons”.  
 Import of Controlled Swords:  Importers shall a pply for an approval from the Municipal, City 
or County police station pursuant to the “Control of Firearms, Ammunition and Weaponry ” and the 
“Measure Governing Permission and Administration of Firearms, Ammunition and Cutting, Pointed 
Weapons”.  
 Import of Police Weapons:  Importers shall appl y for an approval from the NPA pursuant to  
“The Use of Police Weapons Act ” and the  “Regul ations Governing the Permission to Manufacture, 
Sell and Possess Police Weapons”.     Import of Industrial Use Explosives: Importers shall apply for an approval from the Bureau of 
Mines of the Ministry of Economic Affairs pursuan t to the  “Industrial Explosives Administrative 
Act”.  
 Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 2.(a) Licensing coverage of “Firearms, Ammunitio n, Controlled Swords, Simulation Guns, Police 
Weapons” are C.C.C. Code:  3824909921-6, 7326909010-3, 9302000000-7, 9303100000-4, 
9303200000-2, 9303300000-0, 9303909010-6, 9303909090-9, 9304000010-3, 9304000020-1, 9304000030-9, 9304000090-6, 9305100000-2, 9305210000-9, 9305290000-1, 9305910000-4, 9305990000-6, 9306301020-1, 9306210000-8, 9306290000-0, 9306309000-8, 9306900000-4, 9307000010-0, 9506990010-1, 9705000020-6. 
 
(b) Licensing coverage of ”Industrial Use E xplosive” are C.C.C. Code:  2842.90.20.10-3, 
2850.00.90.10-6, 2904.20.00.13-4, 2905.59.90.10-1, 2905.59.90.20-9, 2908.99.00.10-9, 2921.42.00.10-0, 3505.10.90.10-1, 3601.00.10.00-5, 3601.00.20.00-3, 3601.00.90.00-8, 3602.00.10.00-4, 3602.00.90.00-7, 3603.00.10.00-3, 3603.00.20.00-1, 3603.00.30.00-9, 3603.00.40.00-7, 3912.20.00.10-5, 3912.20.00.20-3. G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 19 
 
 
   The licensing system is non-automatic. 
 3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries and customs territories, unless otherwise specified in the accession protocol of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu or the agre ement on the terms of accession to the WTO. 
 
4. The system is for the purpose of upholding the safety and peace of society.  Currently, there 
are no other methods of import that can substitute for this system.  5. Abolition of the  “Control of Firearms, Am munition and Weaponry “, “The Use of Police 
Weapons Act “, and “Industrial Explosives Admini strative Act” requires the endorsement of the 
legislative branch of the government, repeal  of the “Measure Governing Permission and 
Administration of Firearms, Ammunition and Cu tting, Pointed Weapons”, “Measure Governing 
Permission and Administration of Firearms, Ammunition and Cutting, Pointed Weapons” does not need approval from the legislative branch of the government.  
 
Procedures
 
 6. Neither quantitative nor price limits are imposed on the importation of these products. 
 7. Application for an import approval:  
(a) May be filed on any workday, 
(b)  No licence can be granted immediately as ev aluation of application requires 7 working days. 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for licence 
and/or importation may be made. 
(d) For import of ”Firearms, Ammunition, Si mulation Guns, Police Weapons” or  “Controlled 
Swords”, an importer must approach the NPA, Ministry of National Defense or the 
Municipal, City or County police station separ ately for approval; for import of ”Industrial Use 
Explosives”, an importer must approach the Bureau of Mines of the Ministry of Economic Affairs for approval. 
 8. None. The reasons for any refusal shall be give n to the applicant in writing.  In the event of 
refusal, the applicant has the right to  file a complaint with the refusing agency or appeal to the agency 
superior to the refusing agency accordin g to the Law of Administration Appeal. 
 Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 
9.(a) To import of  “Firearms, Ammunition”, “S imulation Guns” and “Controlled Swords”, an 
applicant must be a government licensed busin ess operator, user, or individual; to import 
“Police Weapons”, an applicant has to be co mmissioned for procurement by military agencies 
or police institutions.  
(b) To import Industrial Use Explosives, the importer must undergo gove rnmental approval for 
the manufacture, processing, sale and/or use of explosives.  
 
Documentational and other require ments for application for licence  
 10.(a) For  “Firearms, Ammunition” , “Simulati on Guns” and “Controlled Swords”: a letter of 
application stating the name, quantity of the goo ds, country of origin, country of sale, purpose 
and usage of the imported commodities, and power  of attorney.   For “Police Weapons”: a 
proof of procurement document from military ag encies or police institutions stating intended 
quantity to be purchased and a product description document. 
(b) For “Industrial Use Explosives”: a letter of application stating the type of explosives, 
quantities, and imports shipping port or airport of entry. G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 20  
 
  11. Upon actual importation of “Firearms, Ammun ition, Simulation Guns, Controlled Swords” or 
“Police Weapons”, an import approval issued by the NPA, Ministry of National Defense or the 
Municipal, City or County police station is required,  and an import approval issued by the Bureau of 
Mines of the Ministry of Economic Affairs is required for import of ”Industrial Use Explosives”. 
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for Firearms, Ammunition, Controlled 
Swords, Simulation Guns, and Poli ce Weapons.  Administrative charge  (NTD 3,000) is charged for 
the “Industrial Use Explosives” importer permit license.  13. There is no deposit or adva nce payment requirement associat ed with the issuance of an 
approval. 
 Conditions of licensing
 
 14. Approval documents from the NPA, Ministry of  National Defense or the Municipal, City or 
County police station, and the Bureau of Mines of the Ministry of Economic Affairs are valid for six 
months.  Upon justifiable reason, the original licensing authority may extend the validity of the import approval documents.  15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization of an approval or a portion of it.  
16. Approval documents are not tr ansferable between importers. 
 17. There are no conditions attached to the issuance of an approval.   Other procedural requirements
 
 
18. Apart from obtaining, prior to importation, the above described approval document; there are 
no other administrative procedures.  19. Foreign exchange is automatically provid ed by the banking authorities for goods to be 
imported. 
 
IX. TARIFF QUOTA: DEPARTMENT OF CUSTOMS ADMINISTRATION, MINISTRY 
OF FINANCE 
Outline of system
 
 
1. "Tariff Quota" are regulated by the "Implementation Rules of Tariff Quota. "Tariff Quota" 
referred to in the said Rules means to assess a cer tain quantity for specified imported goods. The 
lower tariff rate applies on imported goods within th e quota, and the normal tariff rate applies on 
imported goods in excess of the quota volume. The tari ff quota is allocated by the Ministry of Finance 
or the delegated organizations or other entruste d authorities. Moreover, the Ministry of Finance 
delegates the Bank of Taiwan to allocate the Tariff Q uota of the agricultural products, and entrusts the 
Bureau of Foreign Trade, the Ministry of Economic  Affairs to distribute the Tariff Quota of small 
vehicles in advance.   Purposes and coverage of licensing 
 
 
2. Agricultural and Industrial Products Subject to a Tariff Rate Quota Regime: 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 21 
 
 
  (a) Agricultural Products:  deer velvet, fresh pear s(excluding European pears), bananas, red bean, 
liquid milk, peanuts, garlic bulbs, dried shiita ke, dried day lily, young coconut, betel nuts, 
pineapples, mangoes, shaddocks, dried longans and longan pulp, and rice. 
(b) Industrial Products:  Small vehicles and chassis.  
3. The tariff quota regime only applies to goods originating in WTO Members. 
 4. Certificates of tariff quota are issued to c ontrol the numbers of imported goods within the 
quota volume.  
5. The issuance of certificates of tariff quota is implemented according to the provisions of the 
said Rules, and is an administrative action pursuant to the said Rules authorized by the Customs Law. 
Therefore, the abolition of the certificates of tari ff quota does not need approval from the Legislative 
Yuan.  
Procedures
 
 6. The products subject to restrictions on quantity or value:  The decision of allocations is on a 
year basis in principle. The quota volume is d ecided in accordance with the concessions made under 
Chinese Taipei’s accession to the WTO.  
7. The products not subject to restrictions on quantity or the products imported from certain 
countries not subject to restrictions on quantity:  (a) Under the method of distribution in advance, certificates of tariff quota can be issued within a 
shorter period of time. According to Article 16 of the said Rules, under the situation that 
imported goods are applying the in-quota tariff rate  of the method of distribution in advance, 
whilst the importers can not submit certificates on time but can rectify the procedure, the 
importers can apply for goods examined and released accompanied with the payment of guaranty deposit equivalent to the amount of customs calculated by the over-quota rate and 
rectify the procedure within the valid period of the certificates. 
(b) Importers will receive certificates of tariff quota after the process of applications, allocations, 
and announcement of the receivers. 
(c) The decision of allocations is on a year basis in principle. Importers shall apply for allocation 
and import the said products within a specific period of time in that certain year. 
(d) Has to approach only one administrative body.  
8. Any reason of objection will be specified on the announced notices. The process of applying 
for allocation is transparent and open.  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 9. The qualification of applicants is as follows: 
(a) Agricultural products: Rice, companies engagi ng in import and export business that have 
completed registration at the Bureau of Foreign Trade (under the Ministry of Economic Affairs), and also have registered as a food dealer at the Council of Agricultural. 
 Other agricultural products, companies engagi ng in import and export business that have 
completed registration at the Bureau of Foreign Trade (under Ministry of Economic Affairs). 
(b) Small vehicles: The recipients obtaining a quota allocated by the WTO members for the 
manufacture of Small vehicles are eligible to apply for licence. 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 22  
 
  Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 10. A sample application form is  attached (See ANNEX II-(1)(2)(3)). 
 11. Upon actual importation, an Importer is re quired to submit certificates of tariff quota. 
 
12. For the agricultural products under the method of Tariff Quota allocation conducted in the order applications are received. The applicants ar e required to pay NT1, 000 when they apply for 
quota allocation or in case of transference of quota.  
13. For the agricultural products under the method of distribution in advance, the authorities will 
collect a performance bond or royalty whilst issuing the certification of tariff quota. The performance 
bond will be returned to the holder after the holder im ports its total allocation before its certificates 
expire. The royalty is charged to obtain th e right to import goods, and is non-refundable. 
 
Conditions of licensing
 
 14. The valid period of certificate of tariff quota:  (a) Agriculture products under the method of distribution in advance, provided that the quota is 
allocated once a year, the certificate of tariff quot a is valid for products arriving on or before 
1 September of that year, and can be exte nded to cover products arriving on or before 
31 December, if necessary. 
(b) Industrial products for small vehicles ar e valid for products arriving on or before 
31 December of that year, and there is no extension. 
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization of an approval or a portion of it. 
 16. For agricultural products under the method of distribution in advance, the quota distributed can be transferred partial or wholly within the valid period of the certificates, but not for small 
vehicles. To transfer quota, both obligee and transferee shall fill the application form of tariff quota and apply to the original authority which allo cated the quota for transference of quota and the 
performance bond accompanied by the following documents: 
 (a) The original certificates of tariff quota. (b) The agreement of transference of tariff quota with mutual subscription (c) The agreement of transference of the performance bond with mutual subscription. 
 
17. There are no conditions attached to the issuance of an approval.  Other procedural requirements
 
 18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from obtaining an approval document 
prior to importation. 
 19. Foreign exchange is automatically provid ed by the banking authorities for goods to be 
imported. G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 23 
 
 
  
 
    
ANNEX I (See Questionnaire 1)  
輸   入   許   可   證   申   請   書 
APPLICATION  FOR  IMPORT  PERMIT 
第1聯：國際貿易局存查聯  共    頁 第     頁 
1申請人 Applicant 2 賣方名址 Seller 
 3生產國別 Country of origin 
 
 4起運口岸 Shipping Port 
 輸入許可證號碼  Import Permit No. 
許可證簽證日期 Issue Date 
許可證有效日期  Expiration Date 
5檢附文件字號  Required Document Ref. No. 簽證機構簽章 Approving Agency Signature 
簽證機構加註有關規定 Special Conditions 
6項目  
Item 7貨品名稱、規格、廠牌或廠名等  
Description of Commodities Spec. and
Brand or Maker ,etc. 8貨品分類號列及檢查號碼
C.C.C. Code 9數量及單位  
Q’ ty & Unit 
 10單價  
Unit 
Price 11金額及條件
Value & 
Terms  
      
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 24  
 
  
 
 
 
  
    輸   入   許   可   證   申   請   書   續    頁 
  CONTINUED  PAGES  OF  APPLICATION  FOR  IMPORT  PERMIT
 
    第1聯：國際貿易局存查聯  共    頁 第     頁 
輸入許可證號碼  Import Permit No. 
6項目  
Item 7貨品名稱、規格、廠牌或廠名等  
Description of Commodities Spec. and 
Brand or Maker ,etc. 8貨品分類號列及檢查號碼
C.C.C. Code 9數量及單位  
Q’ ty & Unit 
 10單價  
Unit 
Price 11金額及條件
Value & 
Terms 
      
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 25 
 
 
  
 
 
 
     輸    入    許    可    證 
     IMPORT  PERMIT 
    第2聯：申請人報關用聯  共    頁 第     頁 
 
 1申請人 Applicant 2 賣方名址 Seller 
 
 3生產國別 Country of origin 
 
 4起運口岸 Shipping Port 
 輸入許可證號碼  Import Permit No. 
許可證簽證日期 Issue Date 
許可證有效日期  Expiration Date 
5檢附文件字號 Required Document Ref. No. 簽證機構簽章 Approving Agency Signature 
簽證機構加註有關規定 Special Conditions 
6項目  
Item 7貨品名稱、規格、廠牌或廠名等  
Description of Commodities Spec. and
Brand or Maker ,etc. 8貨品分類號列及檢查號碼
C.C.C. Code 9數量及單位  
Q’ ty & Unit 
 10單價  
Unit 
Price 11金額及條件
Value & 
Terms 
      
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 26  
 
  
 
 
 
  
    輸    入    許    可    證    續    頁 
   CONTINUED  PAGES  OF  IMPORT  PERMIT
 
    第2聯：申請人報關用聯  共    頁 第     頁 
 
輸入許可證號碼  Import Permit No. 
6項目  
Item 7貨品名稱、規格、廠牌或廠名等  
Description of Commodities Spec. and 
Brand or Maker ,etc. 8貨品分類號列及檢查號碼
C.C.C. Code 9數量及單位  
Q’ ty & Unit 
 10單價  
Unit 
Price 11金額及條件  
Value & Terms 
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 27 
 
 
  ANNEX II (1)  (See Questionnaire 9) 
    APPLICATION FORM FOR TARIFF RATE QUOTA 
    
     
Bank of Taiwan                                                                 ＊ print type by the applicant 
(3) Source of Origin: 
WTO Member (1) Applicant (Name in English and Chinese, Business 
Registration No., Address, Tele phone No. and Facsimile No.): 
(2) Seals of the Applicant (including both company & person in 
charge): (4) Documentations attached 
□ A. Copy of qualification documentation (please 
check applicable boxes) 
□ B.Copy of Registration Card or Certificate for 
 Exporter/Importer 
□   Copy of Business Registered Certificate 
□  Original Receipt of Post Office Fund-Transfer 
 for Service Charge 
(5) Quantity: 
 
MTS  
(Quantity of Deer Velvet:      KGS)  (6) Quota Variety/Product (Check one box only) 
□ E. Deer Velvet      □ F. Fresh Pears  
□ G. Bananas  (7) Lot of Quota 
Allocation  
We hereby agree to abide by the relevant notices and regulati ons concerning the application of Global Tariff Quota. In 
the meantime, we agree to accept, if violated, punishme nts including suspension of quo ta application, quotas 
withdraw etc. as stipulated in the Customs Law or other relevant laws. 
to Department of Trade, Bank of Taiwan 
 
Remarks:  
 1.  The above-mentioned products shall be  imported in compliance with the relevant 
quarantine/inspection and importation regulations. 
 2.  To avoid errors and mistakes, please fill in  this application form in accordance with 
instructions on the reverse side. 
 
□ Unqualified  
Evaluation Result 
□ Unqualified date of sending           □ Apply for more than one product 
□ Unqualified in applicant’s qualification  □Repeated application 
□ Incomplete Documentations    □ Application not sent through post office 
□ Service Charge not paid            □ Application not sent to stipulated address  
□ Unqualified quantity □ Others □Qualified  
Do not fill in the
right blank
Allocation Result 
 
G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 28  
 
  ANNEX II (2)   (See Questionnaire 9)  
ANNEX II (3)  (See Questionnaire 9) 
 
PREMIUM BIDDING FORM FOR TARIFF QUOTA 
  We, the bidder, hereby certify that we can firmly get supply of the qualified product and 
assures that the product will arrive on or before the validity date of quota certificate. Otherwise, we shall be responsible for any consequences. We also confirm that our bid for product is in conformity 
with all the requirements in  BOT ’s Invitation documents as follows: 
 
Quantity:              Metric Tons 
 
※Notice 
 
 Quantity is neither permitted to be lower than  the floor quantity, nor over the ceiling quantity 
specified in Instructions for bid of the products. The unit of quantity is metric ton.  Unit Price of Premium: New Taiwan Dollars            Per Metric Ton. 
 
 If there is any illegal or improper activities that may impair the fairness of the bid, the bidder 
shall assume full legal responsibilities.   To 
Department of Trade, Bank of Taiwan 
Bidder：                                   Seal:                         
Representative ：                             Seal:                          
Address：                                                                 
Telephone ：                          Fax ：                            
Opening date of Tender 
----------------------------------------------------------------- 
The Deposit will be paid by Banks’ check. Details are as follows ： BOT ’S Cashier: 
Bidder：         bid for     MT  (product) pay Deposit NT$                              
1.Kind of Check ： 3.Issuing Bank: 
2.Paying Bank ： 4.Check No ：  
 G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 29 
 
 
   
    
ANNEX II (3) (See Questionnaire 9)  
關稅配額證明書申請書  
 
APPLICATION FOR TARIFF RATE QUOTA CERTIFICATE 
 
第1聯：國際貿易局存查聯    共    頁  第    
頁 
 
 
2賣方名址 Seller 
 1申請人 Applicant 
 
 
 3生產國別 Country of Origin 
 
 4起運口岸 Shipping Port 
 
證明書號碼 Certificate No. 
核准日期 Issue Date 
有效日期 valid period 
 
當年度 1月1日起至 12月31日止  核發機構簽章 Signature of Approving Agency 
核發機構加註有關規定  Special Conditions 
5項次  
Item 6貨名  
Description 7貨品分類號列及檢查號碼  
C.C.C. Code 8數量  
Q’ty 9單位  
Unit 
     
 
 
 
  G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 30 
 
 
ANNEX III 
List of the Laws and Regulations Referenced 
  
Subject(s) of 
Questionnaire Licensing Authority Governing Regulations Contact Point 
1.Commodities 
Subject to Conditional Import, 
Iron and Steel 
Products, Optical Disk Manufacturing 
Equipment Bureau of Foreign 
Trade, Ministry o
f 
Economic Affairs 1. FOREIGN TRADE ACT  
2. ENFORCEMENT RULES OF THE FOREIGN TRADE ACT  
3. REGULATIONS GOVERNING IMPORT OF COMMODITIES  
4. REGULATIO NS GOVERNING REGISTRATION AND 
ADMINISTRATION OF EXPORTERS AND IMPORTERS  
5. OPTICAL DISK ACT  
6. OPTICAL DISK MANUFACTURING IMPLEMENT IMPORTATION 
AND EXPORTATION REGULATIONS  tonyan@trade.gov.tw 
2.Methyl Bromide, 
HCFC Environmental 
Protection 
Administration,  1. METHYL BROMIDE MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS  
2. HCFCs CONSUMPTION MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS  yhhsiehyh@sun.epa.gov.tw  
3.Breeding Livestock/ 
Poultry and Genetic 
Resources, Genetically 
Modified Breeding 
Stock/ Poultry and Genetic Resources Council of Agriculture, 1.  GUIDELINES FOR SCREENING APPLICATION FOR LETTER OF 
APPROVAL FOR THE IMPORTATION OF BREEDING LIVESTOCK 
AND POULTRY AND GENETIC RESOURCES  
2. THE GUIDELINES NEEDED FOR OBTAINING APPROVAL FOR THE 
IMPORT AND EXPORT OF GENETICALLY MODIFIED BREEDING 
STOCK AND POULTRY AND GENETIC RESOURCES  wshsu@mail.coa.gov.tw  
   G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1
 Page 31Subject(s) of 
Questionnaire Licensing Authority Governing Regulations Contact Point 
4.Yellow-fin Tuna, 
Bluefin Tuna, Southern Bluefin
Tuna, Swordfish, 
Big-eye Tuna Fisheries Agency, 
Council of Agriculture 1. 
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR  WR ITTEN APPROVAL LICENSE TO 
IMPORT YELLOW-FIN TUNA  
2. NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR WRITTEN APPROVAL LICENCE TO 
IMPORT, EXPORT AND RE-EXPORT BLUEFIN TUNA  
3.  NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR WRITTEN APPROVAL LICENCE TO 
IMPORT, EXPORT AND RE-EXPORT SOUTHERN BLUEFIN TUNA   
4. NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR WRITTEN APPROVAL LICE NCE TO 
IMPORT, EXPORT AND RE-EXPORT SWORDFISH  
5. NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR WRITTEN APPROVAL LICENCE TO 
IMPORT, EXPORT AND RE -EXPORT BIG-EYE TUNA  charlian@ms1.fa.gov.tw 
5.Tobacco, Liquor 
Products and 
Undenatured Ethyl 
Alcohol National Treasury 
Agency, Ministry o f 
Finance; IDB; MND 1. THE TOBACCO AND ALCOHOL ADMINISTRATION ACT  
2. THE ENFORCEMENT RULES OF THE TOBACCO AND ALCOHOL 
ADMINISTRATION ACT  
3. THE REGULATIONS GOVERNING UNDENATURED ETHYL 
ALCOHOL  mavis@mail.nta.gov.tw  
6.Oil and Petroleum 
products Bureau of Energy, 
Ministry of Economic Affairs 1. PETROLEUM ADMINISTRATION ACT
 flliao@moeaboe.gov.tw  
  G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1 
Page 32 
Subject(s) of 
Questionnaire Licensing Authority Governing Regulations Contact Point 
7.Fishing Boats Fisheries Agency, 
Council of Agriculture 1. FISHERIES ACT  
2. ENFORCEMENT RULES OF THE FISHERIES LAW  
3. THE REGULATION FOR FISHING VESSEL BUILDING PERMIT AND 
FISHERY LICENSE ISSUE  
4. OPERATING RULES FOR SCREENING APPLICATIONS TO IMPORT 
FISHING VESSELS USING NEW FISHING METHODS  
5. REGULATIONS OF RECREATIONAL FISHERY  charlian@ms1.fa.gov.tw 
Vessels Department o f 
Navigation & Aviation, 
Ministry o f 
Transportation and Communications 6. SHIPPING ACT (PARTIAL ARTICLES)
 
7. REGULATIONS FOR ADMINISTRATING SMALL SHIPS (PARTIAL 
ARTICLES)  
8. REGULATIONS FOR ADMINISTRATING VESSEL CARRIERS AND 
VESSEL CHARTERING OPERATORS (PARTIAL ARTICLES)  tsaijw@motc.gov.tw 
Civil Aircraft Civil Aeronautics 
Administration, Ministry o
f 
Transportation and 
Communications 9.  CIVIL AVIATION ACT  
10.  REGULATIONS OF CIVIL AIR TRANSPORT ENTERPRISE  
11. REGULATIONS GOVERNING GENERAL AVIATION   
12. ULTRA-LIGHT VEHICLE REGULATIONS  peiyu@mail.caa.gov.tw 
8.Firearms, 
Ammunition, 
Controlled Swords, Simulation Guns National Police 
Administration, 
Ministry of Interior  1. MEASURES GOVERNING PERMISSION AND ADMINISTRATION OF 
FIREARMS, AMMUNITION AND CUTTING, POINTED WEAPONS  
2. CONTROL OF FIREARMS, AMMUNITION AND WEAPONRY  wangtse@npa.gov.tw   
   G/LIC/N/3/TPKM/2/Rev.1
 Page 33Subject(s) of 
Questionnaire Licensing Authority Governing Regulations Contact Point 
Police Weapons National Police 
Administration, Ministry of Interior 3. SOCIAL ORDER MAINTAINING LAW (PARTIAL ARTICLES)
 
4. THE USE OF POLICE WEAPONS ACT  
5. REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERMISSION TO MANUFACTURE, 
SELL AND POSSESS POLICE WEAPONS  kgb@npa.gov.tw  
Industrial Use 
Explosives Bureau of Mines, 
Ministry of Economic 
Affairs 6. INDUSTRIAL EXPLOSIVES ADMINISTRATIVE ACT  shunn@mine.gov.tw 
9.Tariff Quota Department of Customs 
Administration, 
Ministry of Finance 1. THE REGULATIONS OF TARIFF QUOTA  fcliu@mail.mof.gov.tw 
 
  
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