How to import high-tech products into Philippines?
To import high-tech products into the Philippines, various permits, licenses, or certifications may be required, depending on the nature of the product. The importer need to be a regular/accredited/registered importer with the NSW, NTC, OMB, Bureau of Customs, DTI, FDA....and various other local agencies, in order to have a user account there. If don’t have an account with PH national single window (https://nsw.gov.ph ), the end user in PH cannot process to import the goods.
What are the common permits and license that might be applicable for the high-tech products?
As per the nature of the goods, its intended use, and its components, there are some common permit will be required for the high-tech products. As an IOR, we can support to check and advice accordingly for the actual shipment:
1. Bureau of Customs (BOC) Import Clearance
A general clearance required for all imports. Importers must register with the BOC and secure accreditation.
2. National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) Import Permit
Required for telecommunications equipment, such as radios, mobile devices, Wi-Fi routers, or other communication devices. The permit ensures these products comply with the technical standards set by the NTC.
3. Bureau of Import Services (BIS) Import Commodity Clearance (ICC)
Required for certain controlled commodities, including electronic products and telecommunications devices. This ensures that the products comply with safety standards.
4. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Permit
Some high-tech products may contain restricted chemicals or electronic waste components. Importers must obtain a clearance if the product falls under the regulations of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the DENR.
5. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Certificate of Product Registration
If the high-tech product is a medical device or involves healthcare technology, it must be registered with the FDA.
6. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance for Restricted Items
Importers need NBI clearance for items classified as restricted due to their potential security impact, such as surveillance equipment.
7. Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Permits
If the high-tech equipment is intended for a company in a PEZA-accredited zone, specific PEZA import permits may be required.
8. Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Clearance
For information technology and network-related high-tech products, DICT clearance may be required to ensure compliance with regulations.
9. Radiation Safety Evaluation Clearance (for X-ray or Radiation-Emitting Devices)
If the product involves equipment that emits radiation, such as X-ray devices, a radiation safety clearance must be obtained from the Department of Health (DOH).
10. Intellectual Property Office (IPO) Compliance
Some high-tech products may require documentation proving that they do not infringe on intellectual property rights, which can be requested by customs officials.
What attached in the dossier that are required for a non-regular importer?
For dossier that are prepared for customs, there are also difference based on the importer of the goods: Individual; CORP. / COOP./ PARTNERSHIP; SOLE PROPRIETOR. In general, importers need to prepare 3 main dossiers:
- The application form, together with all docs can show their identity when importing.
- For the goods, the CIPL and datasheet will be needed to represent the nature of the goods with the customs
- Especially, for the restricted goods, we need to apply in advance for the import permit, license and certificate. Then, these need to be provided to the customs also.
You can check with more detail as below:
There are different requirement documents and procedure, which might require to get advice from many entities of how to process. As an IOR, we will take care to check carefully on your shipper, and give you the best advice for the requirement that your shipment might need to face with.