BUYUSA.GOV -- U.S. Commercial Service

Central America

Exporting to Central America

Central America is a very important market for United States exporters.

  • Central America is the 16th largest market worldwide for U.S. exports.
  • The United States exported $10.9B dollars worth of goods to the region in 2003.
  • 50 percent of the regions imports come from the United States.

Central America is an open market.

  • Tariffs are Relatively Low (1-17%)
  • Value Added Tax (VAT) Average - 12%
  • Almost No Import Restrictions
  • Standards are Similar to the U.S.
  • Variety of Qualified Agents and Distributors Available
  • Growing English Use in Business
  • Visas for U.S. citizens are not required to enter Central American countries
  • Professionals wanting to work in CA-5 countries must either be licensed or provide services through a local professional

Click here to view best prospects to Central America

For more information on exporting to Central America please contact the Commercial Service Office in the Central American country you are looking to export to.