Basic information
Outline of the system
In Burkina Faso, import formalities are limited to the issuance of a prior import declaration (DPI), which is an import document required for all imports of goods of an f.o.b. value of CFAF 500,000 or more.
This DPI is issued immediately and free of charge by the Directorate of the Single Trade and Investment Window Centre (DCGU/CI) of the Ministry of Trade on the basis of a pro forma invoice.
For certain products, a DPI can only be issued against an import licence. Products requiring import licences include sugar.
Product coverage
Nature of licensing
Automatic
If Automatic, administrative purpose
Non-Automatic
If Non-Automatic, description of the notified Non-Automatic Licensing regime
This licence was introduced by an announcement of 31 September 2004 with a view to improving the country's sugar supply.
Products under restriction as to the quantity or value of imports
Questions for products under restriction as to the quantity or value of imports
The system applies to products originating from which country?
Expected duration of licensing procedure
It is not possible to establish how long this licensing procedure will apply, since it could be maintained as long as the authorities consider the country's supply to be inadequate.
Legal requirements
Is the licensing statutorily required?
Does the legislation leave designation of products to be subject to licensing to administrative discretion?
Is it possible for the government to abolish the system without legislative approval?
Eligibility of applicants
Is there a system of registration of persons or firms permitted to engage in importation?
What persons or firms are eligible to apply for a licence?
Is there a registration fee?
Is there a published list of authorized importers?
Contact point for information on eligibility
Ministry/Authority
Any information on eligibility is available from the Ministry of Trade.
Address
Telephone
Fax
E-mail address
Website
Contact officer
Submission of an application
Administrative body(ies) for submission of an application
Directorate of the Single Trade and Investment Window Centre
Documentation requirements
What information is required in applications?
Applications accompanied by proforma invoices
What documents is the importer required to supply with the application?
Window of submission of an application
How far in advance of importation must application for a licence be made?
Are there any limitations as to the period of the year during which application for licence can be made? If so, explain
Issuing the license
Can a licence be granted immediately on request?
Applications accompanied by pro forma invoices are received and processed by the Directorate of the Single Trade and Investment Window Centre on behalf of the Minister, who issues the licence within a maximum of 48 hours.
Can licences be obtained within a shorter time-limit or for goods arriving at the port without a licence
Which administrative body is responsible for approving application of licences?
Non-automatic licence issued in the form of an ASI by the Ministry of Trade.