All imports into the Dominican Republic, other than free zone imports, require a consular invoice from a Dominican overseas consulate approving the transaction. Many U.S. exporters continue to complain that the fees are rarely nominal and often arbitrarily assessed. The uncertainty regarding total associated costs is, therefore, present for every shipment to the Dominican Republic. Private-sector associations and other groups continue to push for a change in the system, but it is a major revenue earner for Dominican consulates as well as for general revenue coffers. Imports into free trade zones that are destined for re-export are excused from this and other customs requirements, such as import licenses, registration requirements, and payment of customs duties based on commercial invoice and airway or ship bills of lading.
Temporary entry is permitted for exhibition or demonstration purposes.
No customs duties are paid to customs and the goods must be returned. A bond, however, or other suitable security for all or a portion of the value of the goods must be posted at the time of temporary entry. This will be returned upon meeting all the terms of temporary entry and proof of shipment out of the country. If the company wishes to sell the products or machinery after making temporary entry, valuation and all relevant duties are determined in accordance with previously noted customs procedures. There are no provisions for the temporary entry of agricultural products.