Permits and Licenses · Import and export
Import and Export License and Permit
Moving goods across the Philippine border takes the right accreditations and product permits. We set them up so your shipments clear on the right footing.
Overview
Accreditation and permits for moving goods across the border
A business that brings goods into the Philippines has to be accredited with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) as an importer before it can process shipments. Beyond that, many products need a permit or clearance from the agency that regulates them, such as food, medicines, cosmetics, plants, animals, chemicals and electronics. Exports have their own rules and, for certain goods, their own permits.
The rules depend heavily on what you move, from where and in what volume, and they are updated from time to time. Getting it wrong means held or seized cargo, storage charges and possible penalties. We look at your products and trade flow, confirm which accreditations and product permits apply, prepare your application papers, and work with the agencies concerned so you are cleared before the first shipment.
What we handle
Customs accreditation and trade permits
From the first look at your product list to a business ready to ship.
Product and route review
Your goods, origin and destination checked to identify which agency permits and clearances apply.
Bureau of Customs accreditation
Importer accreditation application prepared and filed with the Bureau of Customs, with supporting company papers.
Regulated product permits
Applications to the agency that oversees your product, such as health, agriculture or standards bodies.
Broker and logistics coordination
Introductions and coordination with licensed customs brokers and forwarders for your first shipments.
How it works
How we set up your import or export license
We work out what you need first, then apply for it in the right order.
Trade profile
We learn what you will import or export, in what form and through which ports.
Requirements map
You get a clear list of the accreditations and product permits that apply.
Applications
We prepare and file with the Bureau of Customs and each regulating agency.
Readiness check
Before your first shipment, we confirm that papers and accreditations match the goods.
Why handle import and export licensing with ILA
Product-specific advice
Permits depend on what you ship, so we start with your products, not a template.
Several agencies, one team
We coordinate the Bureau of Customs and product regulators so nothing is missed.
Fewer border surprises
Right papers before the shipment reduces the risk of held cargo and storage charges.
Frequently asked questions
Import and export questions we hear most
Does my business need Bureau of Customs accreditation to import?
In general, yes. An importer must be accredited with the Bureau of Customs before it can process import entries in its own name. Requirements and process are set by Customs rules that change from time to time, so we confirm the current steps before preparing your application.
Is customs accreditation enough to import any product?
No. Accreditation lets you deal with Customs, but many products also need approval from the agency that regulates them, such as for food, medicines, cosmetics, plants or chemicals. We identify the permits that apply to your goods before your first order ships.
Do exporters need a license too?
Many exports need no special license beyond normal business registration. Some goods, such as certain wildlife, plant products, minerals or restricted items, need a permit from the regulating agency. We check your product and destination market and tell you what applies.
Planning to import or export from the Philippines?
Book a free consultation and we will map the licenses and permits your goods need.
