Micronesia Import Restrictions

In order to enter Micronesia, certain goods are subject to specific controls and, regardless of their value and quantity, they require the consent of Micronesia 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 Micronesia, and which items need special documentation before exporting to Micronesia.

The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is a small island nation located in the Pacific Ocean. Due to its limited domestic production capacity, the country heavily relies on imports to meet the needs of its population and fuel its economy. As a result, Micronesia has developed a set of import regulations designed to control and manage the flow of goods into the country. These regulations aim to protect the health and safety of the population, ensure that goods entering the country comply with local standards, and minimize any potential environmental impacts associated with imported products.

Micronesia’s import restrictions are enforced by various government agencies, including the Department of Finance and Administration, which is responsible for overseeing customs operations. The Department of Health and Social Affairs, the Department of Resources and Development, and the Environmental Protection Agency also play key roles in regulating specific sectors such as health, agriculture, and the environment. Import restrictions are designed to ensure that products entering the country meet safety, quality, and environmental standards while aligning with Micronesia’s international trade obligations and commitments.

For businesses and individuals wishing to import goods into Micronesia, understanding these import restrictions is crucial. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to delays, penalties, or confiscation of goods, which can significantly impact trade and business operations.

Prohibited Items for Import into Micronesia

Micronesia enforces several prohibitions on goods that could pose significant risks to public health, safety, and the environment. These prohibitions are in place to ensure that harmful, illegal, or environmentally damaging products are prevented from entering the country. Some of these restrictions are aligned with international trade agreements to which Micronesia is a signatory, while others are based on national priorities and concerns.

Products Harmful to Public Health and Safety

Public health and safety are a top priority in Micronesia, and the government has imposed regulations to prevent the importation of goods that could pose risks to the population. These restrictions primarily target illegal drugs, counterfeit products, and hazardous health-related goods.

• Illicit Drugs and Narcotics: Micronesia has strict laws governing the importation of narcotics and controlled substances. The importation of illicit drugs such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, and synthetic drugs is strictly prohibited under the country’s Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Law. As part of its commitment to international drug control conventions such as the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, Micronesia has a zero-tolerance policy for the importation of illegal drugs. The Micronesian Customs Service, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, monitors the entry of goods into the country and works to intercept any illegal drug shipments. Importers attempting to bring illicit drugs into the country face severe legal penalties, including imprisonment and heavy fines. The primary objective is to protect the health of Micronesia’s citizens and prevent drug abuse and trafficking within the country.

• Counterfeit Medicines and Hazardous Products: The importation of counterfeit medicines and other health-related products that do not meet safety standards is prohibited in Micronesia. The Department of Health and Social Affairs is responsible for regulating the import of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and other health-related goods. Counterfeit medications, which are often ineffective and sometimes dangerous, pose a significant risk to public health and are therefore banned from entering the country. Similarly, medical devices that have not been tested or certified as safe for use are also prohibited. The Department ensures that only authorized, effective, and safe products are available to the population. Any imported goods that fail to meet the safety standards are rejected at customs, and the importer may face legal consequences.

Environmentally Harmful Goods

As a nation that relies heavily on its natural environment and resources, Micronesia has established restrictions on goods that could harm its fragile ecosystems. These goods include hazardous waste, certain chemicals, and materials that contribute to environmental pollution.

• Hazardous Waste and E-Waste: Micronesia is committed to the Basel Convention, which regulates the movement of hazardous waste across international borders. As a result, the importation of hazardous waste, including e-waste (electronic waste), medical waste, and industrial waste, is prohibited in Micronesia. E-waste, such as discarded mobile phones, computers, and televisions, contains toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can pollute water, soil, and air if not disposed of properly. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces these regulations to protect the environment from contamination. Any shipments of hazardous waste that arrive at Micronesian ports are stopped, and violators may face severe penalties, including fines and the destruction of the waste. The goal is to prevent environmental degradation and ensure that Micronesia’s ecosystems remain protected.

• Products Derived from Endangered Species: In line with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), Micronesia prohibits the importation of goods derived from endangered species. This includes items such as ivory, animal skins, exotic plants, and other wildlife products that contribute to the illegal wildlife trade. As part of its commitment to biodiversity conservation, Micronesia enforces strict controls to ensure that endangered species are protected from exploitation. The Department of Resources and Development monitors and controls the import of such goods, and violators face penalties, including fines and imprisonment. These restrictions are designed to prevent the illegal wildlife trade and preserve the rich biodiversity of Micronesia and the world.

Products Requiring Import Licenses

While Micronesia prohibits certain products outright, other goods can be imported into the country with the appropriate licenses. Import licenses are required for certain goods that need to meet specific national regulations before they can enter the market. These goods may require inspection, certification, or approval by relevant authorities to ensure that they comply with health, safety, and environmental standards.

Goods Subject to Import Licensing

In Micronesia, several categories of goods require an import license before they can be legally brought into the country. These goods include pharmaceuticals, chemicals, agricultural products, and items that may require special attention due to their potential impact on public health, safety, or the environment.

• Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment: The Department of Health and Social Affairs is responsible for regulating the importation of pharmaceutical products and medical devices. Importers of medicines, medical devices, and health-related products must obtain an import license to ensure that the products meet national safety standards and have been approved for use by the relevant health authorities. To gain approval, importers must submit documentation proving that the products meet the required standards for safety, efficacy, and quality. This includes submitting certification from internationally recognized health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), to verify that the products have been tested and are safe for public use. Medical devices, including diagnostic tools, surgical instruments, and therapeutic devices, must also comply with local regulations to ensure that they do not pose risks to the population.

• Agricultural Products and Livestock: The Department of Resources and Development regulates the importation of agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, seeds, and livestock. Importers must obtain a license to ensure that these goods meet the country’s health, safety, and environmental standards. This is particularly important for agricultural products, which may carry pests, diseases, or other biological risks that could harm local crops or livestock. For example, livestock and animal products must meet health standards to prevent the introduction of diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease. Similarly, agricultural goods such as seeds and plant material must be free from pests that could affect local ecosystems. The Department also monitors the importation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to ensure that they do not negatively impact local agriculture, and special permits are required for the importation of these goods.

Environmentally Sensitive Goods

In line with its commitment to sustainability, Micronesia has regulations in place for the importation of environmentally sensitive goods. These goods must meet specific environmental standards before they are allowed into the country. Import licenses are required to ensure that these products do not pose a risk to Micronesia’s ecosystems.

• Chemicals and Hazardous Substances: The Micronesian Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the importation of chemicals and hazardous substances to prevent environmental harm. These chemicals can include industrial solvents, pesticides, fertilizers, and other materials that could cause pollution or harm human health if not used correctly. Importers must obtain an import license and submit detailed information about the chemical composition, intended use, and safety precautions associated with these products. The EPA ensures that these substances do not negatively affect local water, soil, or air quality. Chemicals that are toxic, flammable, or contribute to environmental degradation are subject to stricter controls, and importers may be required to submit additional safety data or risk assessments to gain approval for entry into the country.

• Plastic and Packaging Materials: Given the growing concern about plastic waste and pollution, Micronesia has implemented regulations to control the importation of plastic goods, especially single-use plastics and non-recyclable packaging materials. Importers of plastic products must obtain an import license to ensure that their goods comply with the country’s environmental policies. The government encourages the import of environmentally friendly plastic products, such as those that are biodegradable or recyclable. Non-compliant plastic products, including those that cannot be recycled, may face restrictions or additional fees. Micronesia aims to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable waste management practices, and the import licensing system is one of the ways the government enforces these goals.

Regulated Consumer Goods

Certain consumer goods also require import licenses to ensure that they meet national safety standards and do not pose risks to public health, safety, or the environment. These goods typically include electronics, motor vehicles, and household appliances.

• Motor Vehicles and Spare Parts: The Department of Transportation regulates the importation of motor vehicles to ensure that they meet safety, emissions, and environmental standards. Importers must obtain an import license for motor vehicles and spare parts, and these vehicles must pass inspection to ensure they are roadworthy and comply with local emissions standards. Used vehicles, in particular, are subject to stricter regulations, including safety inspections and emissions testing, to ensure that they do not contribute to air pollution. Spare parts must meet local safety regulations, and importers must provide certification that the parts are compliant with the country’s standards.

• Electronics and Household Appliances: The importation of electronics, such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and televisions, also requires an import license. These products must meet safety standards to prevent electrical hazards and ensure energy efficiency. The Department of Consumer Affairs ensures that imported household appliances comply with safety regulations and energy efficiency standards. Importers must submit documentation proving that their products comply with international standards and do not pose risks to consumers. Products that fail to meet these requirements may be denied entry into the country or subject to additional regulations.