Mauritania Import Restrictions

by countryaah · Published June 2, 2019 · Updated February 13, 2025

In order to enter Mauritania, certain goods are subject to specific controls and, regardless of their value and quantity, they require the consent of Mauritania government, preferably, license must be obtained prior to passage through the customs, preventing the goods from being retained. On this page, you will see what kinds of items are prohibited from entering the Mauritania, and which items need special documentation before exporting to Mauritania.

Mauritania, located in West Africa, is a country with a mixed economy that relies on the import of a wide range of goods to meet domestic needs. As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Mauritania follows international trade practices but also has specific domestic regulations designed to protect public health, safety, and the environment. The country’s import regulations ensure that foreign goods entering the market are safe for consumption, environmentally friendly, and meet the country’s quality standards.

The regulatory framework for imports in Mauritania is managed by various governmental bodies. The General Directorate of Customs is responsible for overseeing the customs clearance process, ensuring that all goods entering the country comply with tax laws, tariffs, and import restrictions. Other key government agencies involved in regulating imports include the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, and the Ministry of Environment. These ministries are responsible for regulating specific categories of goods that could affect public health, the environment, and the agricultural sector.

For businesses and individuals involved in international trade with Mauritania, understanding the country’s import restrictions is essential. Adhering to these regulations ensures the smooth importation of goods and prevents unnecessary delays, fines, or confiscations.

Prohibited Items for Import into Mauritania

Mauritania enforces specific bans on certain goods, primarily for reasons related to public health, security, and environmental protection. These prohibited items either pose risks to the health and safety of the population, threaten the environment, or violate international trade agreements. As part of its commitment to global efforts, Mauritania restricts or bans several types of products.

Products Harmful to Public Health and Safety

Mauritania places significant importance on protecting public health and ensuring that goods entering the country do not harm its citizens. The government has implemented regulations to restrict the import of products that could potentially cause harm to health and safety.

Illicit Drugs and Narcotics: Mauritania follows strict laws regarding the importation of narcotics, psychotropic substances, and other illegal drugs. The Ministry of Health and the General Directorate of Customs cooperate to prevent the smuggling of illicit substances into the country. As part of its commitment to international agreements such as the United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, Mauritania has a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal drugs. Any attempt to import drugs such as heroin, cocaine, or synthetic drugs is met with severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of goods.
Counterfeit Medicines and Hazardous Products: The importation of counterfeit medicines, unapproved drugs, and hazardous products is also banned in Mauritania. The Ministry of Health regulates the importation of all pharmaceutical products, ensuring that only licensed and approved medicines enter the market. Counterfeit pharmaceuticals that may be substandard or ineffective can pose significant health risks to the population, and their importation is strictly prohibited. Additionally, other hazardous products, including certain chemicals that may endanger public health, are not allowed into the country. The government has implemented a rigorous inspection process to prevent the importation of such goods.

Environmentally Harmful Goods

Mauritania is committed to protecting its environment and has implemented several measures to regulate the importation of goods that could pose a risk to the country’s natural resources. These regulations are primarily focused on preventing pollution, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring sustainable development.

Hazardous Waste and E-Waste: Mauritania adheres to international conventions such as the Basel Convention, which regulates the movement of hazardous waste across borders. The country bans the importation of hazardous waste, including industrial waste, medical waste, and electronic waste (e-waste). E-waste, which includes discarded electronic devices such as computers, phones, and batteries, contains toxic substances like lead, mercury, and cadmium that can contaminate the environment and pose significant health risks. As such, Mauritania prohibits the importation of waste products that could negatively impact its ecosystem, particularly water, soil, and air quality.
Products Derived from Endangered Species: Mauritania follows the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and has enacted strict regulations on the importation of products made from endangered species. The country bans the importation of goods such as ivory, animal skins, certain plants, and other wildlife products derived from endangered species. These restrictions are part of Mauritania’s commitment to preventing the exploitation and extinction of rare species. Violations of these laws can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment, and are part of Mauritania’s efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade.

Products Requiring Import Licenses

While Mauritania bans certain goods outright, other products can only be imported with the appropriate licenses. The country’s import licensing system ensures that goods entering the market meet the required health, safety, environmental, and quality standards. Importers must adhere to licensing requirements for certain goods, which are subject to inspection and approval by the relevant government authorities.

Goods Subject to Import Licensing

There are several categories of goods that require an import license in Mauritania. These goods are typically regulated by various ministries, including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Environment, to ensure that they comply with national safety, health, and environmental standards.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment: Importing pharmaceuticals and medical devices into Mauritania requires a license from the Ministry of Health. The Ministry ensures that all medical products meet the country’s health and safety standards, and importers must submit documentation regarding the product’s composition, manufacturing processes, and certifications from recognized authorities. Imported medicines, vaccines, medical equipment, and diagnostic tools must be proven to be safe and effective before they can be cleared for sale in Mauritania. Unauthorized or counterfeit medical products are not allowed into the country, and goods failing to meet the Ministry’s standards will be rejected at the border.
Agricultural Products and Livestock: The Ministry of Agriculture regulates the importation of agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, and livestock. These products require an import license to ensure that they meet phytosanitary and veterinary standards. Importers must comply with regulations to prevent the introduction of harmful pests, diseases, and other biological risks that could damage local crops or livestock. The import of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is subject to special regulations, and certain agricultural products may require additional permits to be imported. The Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for inspecting and approving imports to safeguard the country’s agricultural sector.

Environmentally Regulated Goods

Mauritania’s commitment to environmental protection is reflected in its regulations governing the importation of products that could negatively impact its ecosystems. Several types of goods that could pose environmental risks require an import license before they can be brought into the country.

Chemicals and Hazardous Substances: The importation of chemicals and hazardous substances requires a license from the Ministry of Environment. These chemicals, which include industrial solvents, pesticides, fertilizers, and other potentially dangerous substances, are subject to strict controls. Importers must provide detailed documentation about the chemical composition, handling procedures, and potential environmental risks associated with the goods. The Ministry of Environment assesses whether these products meet national safety standards before granting an import license. The goal is to ensure that imported chemicals do not pose a danger to human health or the environment, particularly water sources and soil quality.
Plastic and Packaging Materials: Mauritania is increasingly concerned with plastic pollution and has established regulations to control the importation of plastic products and non-biodegradable packaging materials. Importers of plastic goods, particularly single-use plastics, are required to obtain an import license and comply with environmental standards. These standards ensure that plastic products meet recycling and disposal requirements that minimize their impact on the environment. The government encourages the use of sustainable materials and has implemented regulations to reduce plastic waste. Importers must prove that their plastic products are in line with the country’s environmental policies, and failure to do so may result in delays or fines.

Regulated Consumer Goods

In addition to pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and environmental products, certain consumer goods also require an import license to ensure they meet safety standards. These goods typically include electronics, vehicles, and electrical appliances.

Motor Vehicles and Spare Parts: The importation of motor vehicles, particularly used cars, is regulated by the Ministry of Transport. The Ministry ensures that imported vehicles meet national safety and emissions standards. To protect the public and the environment, only vehicles that are roadworthy and meet the country’s emissions requirements are allowed into Mauritania. Importers of vehicles must provide certification proving that the vehicles comply with these standards. Additionally, spare parts for motor vehicles are subject to inspection to ensure they meet the required safety and quality standards. The Ministry of Transport issues the necessary licenses for vehicles and parts that meet these regulations.
Electronics and Household Appliances: The importation of electronics, including televisions, refrigerators, air conditioning units, and other household appliances, requires a license from the relevant regulatory authorities. These goods must comply with national safety standards and energy efficiency requirements. The Ministry of Industry ensures that electronic products are safe to use and meet the country’s electrical safety standards. Importers must submit documentation proving that the products comply with international standards, and any products that fail to meet these regulations are not permitted entry into Mauritania.