Guinea

Specific Information

Document timing (critical): All documents must be provided to the destination agent at least 2 weeks before the shipment arrives to obtain duty-free clearance. For diplomatic shipments, documents must be supplied at least 3 weeks prior to arrival, as the diplomatic organization must apply for privileges which may take several weeks for customs approval.

Language requirements: The valued inventory must be in French, dated, and signed by the owner.

International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN): Required for all FCL shipments entering Guinea. This must be obtained before the shipment arrives. The destination agent can advise on the process.

Guichet Unique (one-stop shop): Guinea launched an online trade facilitation portal in 2019 (Guichet Unique du Commerce Exterieur de Guinee) to digitize customs declarations, certifications, and authorizations. Duties can be paid via wire to the Central Bank or through commercial banks via the portal.

Customs clearance challenges: Corruption remains a factor in clearing goods through Guinean customs. Working with an experienced local agent is strongly recommended.

Confiscation risk: Customs authorities have the right to confiscate cargo that is not released within 90 days of arrival.

ISPM 15: Wood packaging materials must comply with ISPM 15 standards.

Duties & Taxes

RTL Tax: Guinea customs levies an RTL (Redevance de Traitement et de Liquidation) tax of 2% of CIF value on all shipments, with a minimum of approximately 300,000 GNF (roughly EUR 30). This applies even to duty-free shipments.

Taxes on new goods: If the consignee does not have a tax exemption, taxes on new goods within a shipment can be as high as 38-45% of CIF value depending on the nature of the goods.

Prohibited & Restricted Items

Importing a Used Personal Vehicle

Required Documents

• Original vehicle registration card
• Change of residence certificate
• Copy of passport
• Copy of purchase invoice (for new vehicles)

Specific Information

Vehicle duties: Taxes on motor vehicles depend on age, engine power, and other characteristics, and can be up to 45% of CIF value for non-exempt importers. Duty on cars is cited at approximately 53% of CIF value in the IAM guide's restricted items section.

Diplomatic vehicles: Embassies and diplomatic organizations are subject to an RPA administrative fee of GNF 800,000. Other organizations pay the RTL (2%) and TVA (18%).

Vehicle age limit: According to Maersk's Guinea import guidelines, vehicles older than 13 years are not allowed for import. Importers of used vehicles must provide a technical inspection sheet certifying the vehicle is suitable for use and has no specific issues that could represent a potential risk.

VAT (TVA): Guinea's standard VAT rate is 18%.

Pets

• Veterinary health certificate (issued at point of origin)
• Vaccination record (including rabies)

Documentation: All veterinary documents must be issued in the country of origin prior to departure.

Rabies vaccination: Required for dogs and cats. Given Guinea's high rabies prevalence, ensuring current rabies vaccination is essential.

Veterinary services in Guinea: Veterinary services are limited, particularly outside Conakry. All vaccinations, treatments, and health checks should be completed before travel. Bring sufficient supplies of pet medications and food.

Import restrictions on animals: VisaHQ lists "Animals" under prohibited items "unless permission has been obtained." An import permit may be required. Contact the destination agent well in advance to determine current requirements and obtain necessary permits.

USDA endorsement (for US-origin pets): A USDA-endorsed health certificate is recommended for pets traveling from the United States. The USDA APHIS page for Guinea confirms requirements exist but does not provide Guinea-specific details beyond the standard process.

CDC high-rabies-risk: Guinea IS on the CDC's list of high-risk countries for dog rabies. Dogs returning to the United States from Guinea will need to meet the CDC's requirements for dogs from high-risk countries, including the Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form (completed before departure from the U.S.), microchip, minimum age of 6 months, and potentially a rabies titer test. Plan return travel requirements before departure from the U.S.

CDC and Guinea rabies program: The CDC has been actively collaborating with Guinea's National Directorate of Veterinary Services on rabies control. As of 2023-2024, over 180,000 animals were vaccinated across 10 high-risk communities, achieving approximately 70% dog vaccination coverage. Despite this progress, rabies remains endemic.

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