Export to Honduras: a 2026 guide for US manufacturers

CAFTA-DR: duty-free access to Honduras

The Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) entered into force between the United States and Honduras on April 1, 2006. According to USTR, it eliminated tariffs on more than 80 percent of US exports of consumer and industrial products immediately, phasing out the rest over 10 years.

The preference only applies to originating goods. According to CBP, the producer, exporter or importer may support the claim with a certification, using a template or a free-form document. Give your buyer the origin information they need before the goods ship.

Documents and permits

• General customs documents: import permit application (when required), commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list and certificate of origin. To claim CAFTA-DR treatment, the importer submits a certificate of origin for imports from the United States.
• Raw and processed agricultural products need an import permit from SENASA, with a phyto- or zoosanitary certificate, a certificate of origin and a copy of the pro forma invoice; SENASA asks for the phytosanitary permit request at least 15 days before arrival.
• US fresh, frozen and cooked poultry needs USDA FSIS Form 9060-5; certain dairy products (HS 04.01 to 04.06 and others) need an import license from the Ministry of Economic Development.
• Sanitary product registration is overseen by ARSA, with registrations valid for five years.
• Sales tax (ISV) on imports is 15% in general and 18% for alcoholic beverages and cigarettes.

US-side steps for every shipment

• Classify the product with its 10-digit Schedule B number (Census Bureau search tool); the first 6 digits are the Harmonized System code your buyer uses for their own tariff.
• File Electronic Export Information (EEI) in AES, through ACE AESDirect or a direct connection, when the value under an individual Schedule B number is over $2,500 or an export license is required. The USPPI or its authorized agent files it.
• Check your export classification. According to BIS, items subject to the EAR that are not listed on the Commerce Control List are EAR99 and, in most situations, need no license, unless they go to a restricted end user, end use or destination.
• Screen your buyer, consignee and end user against the Consolidated Screening List, which combines export screening lists of the Departments of Commerce, State and the Treasury.

Frequently asked questions