Step by Step: How to Import Rice

Importing rice into Timor-Leste requires compliance with the country's regulatory requirements, which include obtaining necessary permits and licenses from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. Additionally, adherence to quality and safety standards set by Timor-Leste's National Food Safety Authority is crucial to ensure the imported rice meets the specified health and safety criteria. Importers must also stay informed about any changes in tariff rates and customs procedures to facilitate a smooth and legally compliant import process.

  1. Step 1

    Business Registration and Verification Service (SERVE)

    • Prepare Applications along with all required documents.
    • Submit the application to Business Registration and Verification Service (SERVE).
    • The application is evaluated by Business Registration and Verification Service (SERVE).
    • If the application is approved, a Business Registration Certificate will be issued to the trader.
    • If not, the application is rejected with the reasons for the rejection.
    • Trader collects the Business Registration Certificate.

    See Procedure

  2. Step 2

    Autoridade Tributária Timor-Leste (ATTL)

    • Prepare Applications along with all required documents.
    • Submit the application to Autoridade Tributária Timor-Leste (ATTL).
    • The application is then evaluated by the Autoridade Tributária Timor-Leste (ATTL).
    • If the application is approved, Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is issued to the Trader. If not, the application is rejected with the reasons for the rejection.

    See Procedure

  3. Step 3

    Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI)

    • Prepare Applications along with all required documents.
    • Submit the application to Commercial Registration and Verification Service (SERVE).
    • For low-risk import activities, Commercial Registration and Verification Service (SERVE) reviews and verifies the application.
    • For medium or high-risk import activities, Commercial Registration and Verification Service (SERVE) forward the application to the respective department of the Ministry of Tourism, Trade, and Industry for further assessment.
    • Submit additional information if required.
    • Collect the Licence after successful review.

    See Procedure

  4. Step 4

    Ministry of Agriculture, and Fisheries

    • Prepare Applications along with all required documents.
    • Submit the application to the Directorate of Quarantine Services.
    • For the first time import, the Directorate of Quarantine Services requires an import risk analysis.
    • Submit additional information if required.
    • Collect the Permit after successful review.

    See Procedure

  5. Step 5

    Timor-Leste Customs

    • Submit the Goods Declaration (GD)
    • Pay Customs Duty.
    • Release your shipment.
    • Note: The following content is developed by Timor-Leste Customs to help importers understand the Clearance process of importing goods. You may also like to have a look at the procedure of clearance at Tibar Bay Port by clicking the procedure button below.

     

    See Procedure

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