US Import Tariffs from Nicaragua
Applicable Tariff Rates for Nicaragua-Origin Goods
The following rates apply to goods with Nicaragua country of origin imported into the United States. All rates are ad valorem (percentage of customs value) unless noted.
| Tariff Type | Rate | Applies To | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| MFN / General Rate | Varies by HTS code | All goods (baseline) | In Effect |
| CAFTA-DR Preferential Rate | 0% (qualifying goods) | Goods meeting rules of origin | In Effect |
Nicaragua is a CAFTA-DR partner. Qualifying goods can enter the US at 0% duty — but you must provide a valid Certificate of Origin and meet rules of origin requirements. Verify classification and ROO before claiming preferential treatment.
Top US Imports from Nicaragua
These product categories represent the highest-volume imports from Nicaragua into the United States. Each category has specific HTS codes, duty rates, and compliance requirements.
Get the Exact HTS Code + Duty Rate
Enter your product description. Our AI classifier returns the correct HTS code, applicable duty rates, and Nicaragua Section 301/FTA status.
CBP Compliance for Nicaragua-Origin Goods
CAFTA-DR. Sanctions concerns due to political situation — OFAC compliance important for financial transactions.
Country of Origin Requirements
All goods imported from Nicaragua must be marked with their country of origin per CBP regulations (19 CFR 134). Goods must be "substantially transformed" in Nicaragua to claim Nicaragua origin — assembly alone is typically insufficient.
OFAC sanctions risk for financial transactions. CAFTA trade in goods remains intact. Agricultural inspection.
Landed Cost from Nicaragua
Get a complete cost breakdown including duty, MPF, HMF, freight, and insurance for Nicaragua-origin shipments.
Common Questions About Importing from Nicaragua
The blended average US tariff rate for imports from Nicaragua is approximately 0% (CAFTA qualifying). This rate reflects a weighted average across the country's top exported product categories to the US. Nicaragua benefits from the CAFTA-DR, which may reduce or eliminate duties for qualifying goods. Actual rates depend on the specific 10-digit HTS code of the imported product.
Yes. Nicaragua has a trade agreement with the US: CAFTA-DR (CAFTA-DR (0% qualifying)). Qualifying goods may enter at preferential (often 0%) duty rates, but must meet the agreement's rules of origin requirements. Importers must file the appropriate certificate of origin documentation with CBP to claim preferential rates.
Nicaragua is NOT subject to Section 301 tariffs. Only China-origin goods face Section 301 additional duties. Section 232 tariffs (25% on steel, 10% on aluminum) apply to Nicaragua with potential quota or exemption arrangements under CAFTA-DR for steel and aluminum products.
Importing from Nicaragua — Complete 2026 Analysis
US–Nicaragua Trade Relationship
Nicaragua benefits from CAFTA-DR but faces potential trade sanctions related to political developments. Key exports include apparel, coffee, beef, and gold. Nicaragua is a lower-cost apparel manufacturing alternative within Central America.
Practical Import Guidance for Nicaragua-Origin Goods
CAFTA-DR provides 0% duty on qualifying goods — but monitor political developments that could affect trade preference eligibility. Apparel ROO requires yarn-forward. Coffee and beef are significant agricultural exports. Gold requires conflict minerals due diligence.
Key Risks and Compliance Considerations
Political risk — potential CAFTA-DR eligibility review. Textile ROO. Agricultural compliance. Gold provenance documentation.
Total Tariff Stack for Nicaragua-Origin Imports
Understanding the cumulative tariff layers for Nicaragua is essential for accurate landed cost calculation:
- Base MFN Rate: 0% (CAFTA qualifying) (varies by HTS code)
- CAFTA-DR Preferential Rate: 0% for qualifying goods with proper documentation
- Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): 0.3464% of entered value (min $31.67, max $614.35 per entry)
- Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF): 0.125% of cargo value (ocean shipments only)
For a complete breakdown of your specific product's tariff exposure from Nicaragua, order a $19 Tariff Exposure Report.
Tools for Nicaragua Importers
Other US Trading Partner Tariff Profiles
Tariff rates are sourced from USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and Federal Register notices as of 2026-05-16. Section 301 rates reflect current USTR actions. Always verify with official sources before importing. AI-assisted analysis provided for informational purposes only — not legal or customs advice.