As of Saturday, April 19, 2025, here's an update on the tariff situation concerning the Central African Republic (CAR): Recent Global Context: It's important to note the broader global tariff environment. The United States, under the Trump administration, has recently implemented a baseline tariff of 10% on imports from most countries, effective April 5, 2025. Higher "reciprocal tariffs" were also announced but are currently under a 90-day pause (excluding China, Hong Kong, and Macau), which began on April 9, 2025.   Tariffs Imposed by the Central African Republic: Based on available information: Applied Simple Average Tariff (All Products): In 2022, this was 19.44%. This figure has fluctuated slightly in recent years (e.g., 15.99% in 2017).   Maximum Tariff Rate: The maximum tariff rate on any product in the CAR was 30% in 2022.   Trade Weighted Average Tariff: This was 15.64% in 2022. Duty-Free Imports: A small percentage (0.78% of tariff lines) of imports entered duty-free in 2022, with a total value of approximately $1.99 million USD.   Specific Goods and Rates (Examples): Keep in mind that these are examples and may not be exhaustive. Tariff rates can vary significantly based on the specific Harmonized System (HS) code of the product. Computers & New Electrical Appliances: Reportedly face tariffs of 80% CIF + 18% VAT. Alcohol: Faces tariffs of 67.5% CIF + 18% VAT. Tobacco: Faces tariffs of 77.5% CIF + 18% VAT. Vehicles: Tariffs range from 48% to 78% CIF + 18% VAT, varying with the vehicle's power. Diplomatic shipments of vehicles may have a lower rate (0.5% CIF + 18% VAT). Trade Agreements: UAE: The CAR and the United Arab Emirates signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in March 2025. This agreement aims to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers between the two nations, potentially impacting future tariff rates on goods traded between them.   African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): The CAR is a signatory to the AfCFTA, which aims to eliminate tariffs on most goods and services across the African continent over time. The operational phase of AfCFTA has begun, with a focus on establishing rules of origin and tariff concessions.   EU: The CAR benefits from duty-free, quota-free access to the EU market under the EU's "Everything but Arms" scheme. The EU is also studying the possibility of a comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the Central African regional organizations (CEMAC and ECCAS), which could further influence CAR's tariff regime.   United States: There are no current trade or investment agreements between the U.S. and the Central African Republic. The CAR is also not eligible for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in 2025. Customs Information: The Central African Customs Office has a branch in Douala, Cameroon, as a significant portion of CAR's trade passes through this port.   A Cargo Tracking Note (BSC/CTN) is compulsory for all sea shipments to the CAR. A 1% import tax is levied on all personal effects shipments. Certain documents are required for imports, including a non-sale certificate for personal effects and specific documentation for vehicles. Important Considerations: Tariff rates and customs regulations can change. It is crucial to verify the latest information with the relevant customs authorities or a customs broker in the Central African Republic before engaging in trade. The calculation of import taxes typically involves tariffs plus Value Added Tax (VAT), which is reported to be 18% in the CAR. The Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value is often used as the basis for calculating these duties and taxes.   This information provides a general overview of the tariff landscape in the Central African Republic as of the current date. For specific tariff rates on particular goods, it is recommended to consult official tariff schedules and customs authorities of the Central African Republic.