As of Saturday, April 19, 2025, here's an update on tariffs related to Gabon: General Tariff Structure: Member of CEMAC: Gabon is a member of the Customs and Economic Union of Central Africa (CEMAC). As such, it adopts the Common External Tariff (CET).   CET Categories: The CEMAC CET has different tariff rates depending on the category of goods: Category 1 (Basic necessities, capital goods, raw materials): 5% Category 2 (Raw materials and intermediate goods): 10% Category 3 (Intermediate goods and most food products): 20% Category 4 (Other goods): 30%     Applied vs. Bound Tariffs: The simple average Most Favored Nation (MFN) applied tariff for Gabon in 2023 was 18.1%. The trade-weighted MFN average in 2023 was 13.9%. This indicates that higher-value imports tend to face lower tariff rates. Gabon's simple average bound tariff is 23.7%. This is the maximum tariff rate Gabon can apply to WTO members. Exceptions and Safeguards: It's important to note that the application of the CET can be inconsistent as member states, including Gabon, sometimes invoke country-specific exceptions and safeguard measures. This can result in Gabon's actual average tariff rate being lower than the CET in some instances.   Other Import Taxes and Fees: In addition to customs duties, other taxes and fees may apply to imports based on the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value:   Community Integration Tax (TCI): 1% on imports originating from non-CEMAC countries.   ECCAS Community Integration Contribution (CCI): 0.4% on imports from non-ECCAS countries.   Fee for Use of the Customs ADP System (RUSID): Can range from 2% to 80% of the CIF value.   Value Added Tax (VAT): The standard VAT rate is 18%. A reduced rate of 10% applies to certain goods like mineral water, cement, sugar, and locally produced chicken.   Excise Duties: Apply to certain luxury goods such as alcoholic beverages, perfumes, cosmetics, caviar, and tobacco products, with rates ranging from 5% to 40% plus specific taxes based on quantity.   Contribution to the African Union (CAF): 0.2% of the customs value for products originating from non-African Union member states.   Trade Agreements: World Trade Organization (WTO): Gabon is a member of the WTO.   CEMAC: Gabon is a member of CEMAC and its free trade area, meaning goods produced within CEMAC member countries generally face no import tariffs. Bilateral Investment Treaties: Gabon has bilateral investment treaties with several countries, including Belgium, Luxembourg, China, Egypt, France, Germany, Italy, Lebanon, Mali, Morocco, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and Turkey.   AGOA: Gabon is currently not eligible for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in 2025. No Bilateral Investment Treaty with the U.S.: Gabon does not have a Bilateral Investment Treaty with the United States.   Recent Updates (as of late 2024/early 2025): The simple average MFN applied tariff in 2023 was 18.1%, and the trade-weighted average was 13.9%. U.S. total goods trade with Gabon in 2024 was $342.7 million. U.S. goods exports to Gabon were $171.1 million (down 5.0% from 2023). U.S. goods imports from Gabon were $171.7 million (up 114.5% from 2023). The U.S. had a slight goods trade deficit with Gabon of $0.6 million in 2024. For Businesses: It is crucial to determine the specific HS code for your product to understand the applicable CET category and tariff rate. Factor in other potential taxes and fees like the TCI, CCI, RUSID, and VAT.   Consider the impact of Gabon's membership in CEMAC if trading with other member states. Be aware of potential country-specific exceptions or safeguard measures that Gabon might apply. For the most up-to-date and specific tariff information, it is recommended to consult the official customs authorities in Gabon or utilize a customs broker familiar with Gabonese import regulations.