Bahamas Customs Duty Rates Updates Coming July 1, 2025

Everything You Need to Know About Tariff & Excise Amendments

Starting July 1, 2025, changes to Bahamas customs duty rates will go into effect with the implementation of the Tariff Amendment 2025 and Excise Amendment 2025. These amendments aim to lower the cost of living, encourage energy efficiency, and support domestic rebuilding efforts—especially for residential homeowners and eco-conscious consumers.

Duty Cuts on Everyday Household Items

Several commonly used items are seeing significant reductions—or full eliminations—of import duties. That’s good news for businesses and families trying to save.

Blenders (Tariff Code 8509.4000) – Now 35%, down from 45%
Shampoo (Tariff Code 3305.1000) – Now Free, down from 25%
Vacuum Cleaners (Tariff Code 8508.6000) – Now 35%, down from 45%
Air Purifiers and Filters (Tariff Code 8421.3990) – Now 20%, down from 45%

Cleaning Products Now Duty-Free

Cleaning solutions, which previously had rates as high as 45%, are now duty-free in many categories. This includes:

Car wash kits, carpet cleaner, polish paste, ink remover, and upholstery cleaners (Tariff Codes under 3405.xxxx)
Detergents and soap preparations (Tariff Code 3402.xxxx)

Construction and Maintenance Supplies Go Duty-Free

If you're in construction or home repair, here’s some great news:

Cement (Tariff Codes 2523.1000, 2523.3000, 2523.9000) – Duty reduced to Free (was 35%)
Grout and mortar (Tariff Code 3824.5000) – Now Free (was 20%)
Screws, nuts, and bolts (Tariff Codes 7318.xxxx and 7415.xxxx) – Now Free (was 20%–45%)

Energy-Efficient Appliance Exemption (New Duty-Free Category)

A brand-new tariff code (9869.0000) has been created for green-labeled, energy-efficient appliances. The following items now qualify for 100% duty exemption if they meet the criteria:

Air Conditioners
Water Heaters (Gas and Electric)
Freezers and Refrigerators

To qualify, items must carry the highest energy efficiency rating and be approved by the National Emissions Registry. For homeowners, there are specific limits (e.g., 4 AC units per residence), but commercial imports are unrestricted.

Residential Rebuilds Get More Support

Under Tariff Code 98.59, the government is extending duty-free concessions for the repair of derelict residential buildings. The new rules clarify that only owner-occupied homes (up to four units) are eligible, and approval must now come from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

Church Signs Now Duty-Free

Churches can now import digital and changeable letter signs duty-free under Tariff Code 98.32.

Excise Reductions on Beverages & Fuel

Spirits and liqueurs (e.g., whiskey, rum, vodka): Excise reduced from $15 to $13 per imperial gallon
Butane fuel (Tariff Code 2711.1300) – Now Free, down from 45%
Heavy trucks over 20 tons (Tariff Codes 8704.23xx) – Duty reduced from 85% to 45%

Summary of Key Changes

Item Category	Old Rate	New Rate	Tariff Code Example
Energy Drinks	55%–60%	30%	2202.1090, 2202.1010
Blenders, Mixers, Grinders	45%	35%	8509.4000
Shampoo & Co-Wash	25%	Free	3305.1000
Air & Water Filters	45%	20%	8421.2100, 8421.3990
Cement & Mortar	35%	Free	2523.9000, 3824.5000
Cleaning Solutions	45%	35% or Free	3405.9000
Copper Screws/Bolts	20–45%	Free	7318.1400, 7415.3300
Energy Efficient Appliances	Up to 45%	Free (new code)	9869.0000
Heavy-Duty Trucks (20+ tons)	85%	45%	8704.2330
Butane Fuel	45%	Free	2711.1300

Final Thoughts

These changes reflect a clear push by the government to:

Lower the cost of everyday goods
Promote sustainable living through energy efficiency
Support rebuilding efforts for homeowners

Whether you're a business owner, importer, or homeowner, these duty adjustments are likely to save you money and simplify your import process.

References:

TARIFF (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2025

EXCISE (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2025

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