Northern Mariana Islands Import Restrictions

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

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

The Northern Mariana Islands (NMI), an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the Pacific Ocean, have a unique set of import regulations and restrictions. These regulations are enforced by both local authorities and federal agencies to ensure that products entering the islands meet safety, environmental, and public health standards. While NMI enjoys a certain degree of autonomy in regulating trade, it aligns closely with U.S. laws and international agreements, which play a central role in shaping its import controls.

Given the region’s location and its reliance on imported goods, the government has established measures to protect local industries, conserve resources, and ensure that consumer goods entering the market do not pose a risk to public health or the environment. The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Customs Office plays an integral role in overseeing the importation of goods, working alongside various federal agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Businesses and individuals intending to import goods into the Northern Mariana Islands must be aware of these restrictions and the procedures for obtaining necessary permits and licenses. Non-compliance can result in delays, fines, or even the confiscation of goods. This guide provides insight into the import restrictions enforced by NMI, focusing on prohibited items and products requiring an import license.

Prohibited Items for Import into the Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands have established a set of regulations to ensure that certain goods are not allowed into the territory due to concerns about public health, safety, and environmental protection. These prohibitions help prevent the introduction of dangerous, illegal, or harmful products that could negatively affect the population or the environment.

Products Harmful to Public Health and Safety

Public health is one of the most important aspects of import regulation in the Northern Mariana Islands. Goods that may pose a health risk, such as illicit drugs, counterfeit medicines, and certain chemicals, are prohibited from entering the territory.

Illicit Drugs and Narcotics: The Northern Mariana Islands strictly prohibits the importation of illicit drugs and narcotics. As a U.S. territory, the islands adhere to U.S. federal drug control laws and international conventions, including the Controlled Substances Act and the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. These laws regulate the importation of narcotics such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, and other illegal substances. The Northern Mariana Islands Customs Office, in cooperation with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), enforces these regulations to prevent the trafficking and distribution of illegal drugs. Penalties for importing illicit drugs include severe fines, long prison sentences, and the seizure of goods. The government’s zero-tolerance policy aims to protect the population from the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking while supporting efforts to combat international drug trade.
Counterfeit Medicines and Medical Products: The importation of counterfeit medicines and substandard medical products is strictly prohibited in the Northern Mariana Islands. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with local authorities, regulates the entry of pharmaceutical products and medical devices into the territory. Counterfeit medicines that are ineffective, harmful, or potentially fatal pose a significant public health risk. To prevent these from entering the market, the FDA requires rigorous testing and approval of medical products, ensuring they meet the necessary standards for safety and efficacy. Similarly, medical devices must be certified by recognized regulatory bodies before they can be imported. Any products that fail to meet these standards are rejected at customs, and violators may face severe legal consequences, including fines and product confiscation.

Environmentally Harmful Goods

Due to its unique environment and rich biodiversity, the Northern Mariana Islands enforces strict import controls on goods that could harm the ecosystem. These restrictions are designed to safeguard the environment, prevent pollution, and protect natural resources from degradation caused by invasive species or hazardous substances.

Hazardous Waste and E-Waste: The importation of hazardous waste, including e-waste (electronic waste), industrial waste, and medical waste, is prohibited in the Northern Mariana Islands. E-waste contains harmful materials such as mercury, lead, and cadmium, which can contaminate the environment if not disposed of properly. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces regulations that prohibit the entry of e-waste and other hazardous materials, ensuring that they do not pollute the land, water, or air. As a U.S. territory, the islands also adhere to international environmental agreements, including the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal. Importers of hazardous materials that violate these regulations face significant penalties, including fines and the destruction of prohibited goods. The goal of these laws is to prevent environmental contamination and to promote responsible waste management practices.
Products Derived from Endangered Species: The Northern Mariana Islands strictly prohibit the importation of products derived from endangered species in accordance with CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). This includes items such as ivory, animal pelts, exotic plants, and other wildlife products that contribute to illegal wildlife trade. The Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Environmental Protection Agency monitor and regulate the import of such goods. By enforcing these regulations, the Northern Mariana Islands ensure that international wildlife trafficking does not contribute to the depletion of endangered species. Any goods that violate these restrictions are subject to confiscation and legal action, including fines and imprisonment for those involved in illegal wildlife trade.

Products Requiring Import Licenses

Certain goods that are potentially harmful or subject to regulatory controls require an import license before they can be brought into the Northern Mariana Islands. These products are typically subject to detailed scrutiny to ensure that they comply with safety, health, and environmental standards. The import licensing system serves as a safeguard to prevent unsafe, substandard, or harmful products from entering the market.

Goods Subject to Import Licensing

Several types of products are subject to import licensing in the Northern Mariana Islands. These goods may require specific documentation, inspection, or certifications to verify their compliance with the country’s standards before being allowed into the market.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices: The FDA regulates the importation of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and health-related products in the Northern Mariana Islands. Importers must obtain a license for these products to ensure that they meet the required health and safety standards. Pharmaceuticals must be approved by the FDA and comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) before being allowed entry. This includes verifying that the medicines have been tested for safety and efficacy, and are properly labeled for use. Likewise, medical devices, including diagnostic equipment, surgical tools, and therapeutic devices, must undergo a rigorous approval process to ensure that they are safe for use. Importers must submit documents that include certificates of origin, safety and efficacy testing results, and approval from regulatory authorities, such as the FDA. Goods that do not meet the necessary standards are denied entry, and importers may face penalties or fines.
Agricultural Products and Livestock: The Department of Agriculture and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) regulate the importation of agricultural products, livestock, and animal products to ensure they meet safety, quality, and environmental standards. These products require an import license to protect the local agriculture industry from pests, diseases, and other potential threats. Livestock must undergo veterinary inspection and meet health standards before they can be imported. Similarly, plant products, including seeds and fruits, must pass phytosanitary inspections to prevent the introduction of harmful pests. Agricultural goods such as fertilizers and pesticides are also regulated to ensure that they do not pose environmental or health risks. The licensing process helps ensure that these products comply with local standards for health and safety, protecting both the environment and local industries.

Environmentally Sensitive Goods

The Northern Mariana Islands also enforces regulations for goods that could negatively affect the environment. These goods require an import license to ensure that they comply with sustainability and environmental protection standards.

Chemicals and Hazardous Substances: The EPA regulates the importation of chemicals and hazardous substances, including industrial chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers. These materials are subject to import licensing requirements to prevent environmental pollution and safeguard public health. Importers must provide detailed information about the chemical composition, intended use, and safety protocols for handling and disposing of the chemicals. The EPA evaluates the potential environmental risks of these products and assesses their compliance with the territory’s environmental standards. Chemicals that do not meet these standards are not permitted entry into the Northern Mariana Islands. The import license ensures that the chemicals are managed in a way that minimizes their environmental impact, ensuring responsible handling, storage, and disposal.
Plastic and Packaging Materials: In light of the growing concerns about plastic waste, the Northern Mariana Islands has put regulations in place to manage the importation of plastic products, particularly those that are non-biodegradable or contribute to pollution. The EPA monitors the importation of plastics and packaging materials, requiring an import license to ensure compliance with recycling and sustainability standards. Non-recyclable plastics and single-use plastics are subject to additional scrutiny and may face higher tariffs or other restrictions. The government encourages the importation of eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable plastics or those made from recyclable materials. Importers must demonstrate that their products meet these environmental standards to receive the necessary import license. Products that do not comply may be refused entry, and importers may be subject to fines or additional environmental impact assessments.

Regulated Consumer Goods

Several types of consumer goods are subject to import licensing to ensure that they meet safety and quality standards. These goods typically include motor vehicles, electronics, and household appliances, which must be regulated to ensure they are safe for use and do not contribute to pollution or health hazards.

Motor Vehicles and Spare Parts: The Department of Public Safety regulates the importation of motor vehicles to ensure that they comply with safety and emissions standards. Motor vehicles must pass safety inspections to ensure they are roadworthy, and they must meet emissions standards to reduce air pollution. Importers of vehicles, especially used cars, must provide documentation to prove that their vehicles meet these requirements. The Department of Public Safety also regulates the importation of spare parts for vehicles to ensure that they are compatible with local standards and do not pose a risk to the safety of drivers or passengers. Used motor vehicles are subject to additional inspections to ensure that they comply with road safety and environmental regulations.
Electronics and Household Appliances: The Department of Commerce regulates the importation of electronics and household appliances, such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines. These products must meet local safety and energy efficiency standards. Electronics must be tested to ensure that they comply with electrical safety regulations, and appliances must meet energy efficiency standards to help reduce energy consumption in the Northern Mariana Islands. Importers must provide documentation showing that their products have been tested for safety and that they meet the required standards for electrical safety and energy use. Non-compliant products may be rejected at customs, and importers may be required to modify or remove unsafe or inefficient goods.