Palau Import Restrictions

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

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

Palau, an island country in the Pacific Ocean, is a small nation with a vibrant economy that relies heavily on imports to meet the needs of its population. As with many island nations, Palau’s geographical location and limited domestic production capacity necessitate a robust import system. The government of Palau has implemented a series of regulations and restrictions on imports to protect public health, maintain environmental sustainability, and support the development of local industries. These regulations also ensure that imports meet the country’s safety standards, contribute to economic growth, and prevent the introduction of harmful goods.

Palau’s import regulations are enforced by the Palau Customs Service, which operates under the Ministry of Finance and the Bureau of Revenue and Taxation. Other government agencies, such as the Ministry of Health, the Environmental Quality Protection Board (EQPB), and the Department of Agriculture, play key roles in regulating specific types of products that may have an impact on public health, safety, or the environment. Understanding these import restrictions is critical for businesses and individuals wishing to trade with Palau, as non-compliance can result in delays, fines, or confiscation of goods. This document outlines the products that are prohibited from entering Palau and those that require an import license.

Prohibited Items for Import into Palau

The government of Palau enforces strict import bans on certain goods to protect its population, environment, and local economy. These restrictions are in place to safeguard the public from health hazards, prevent environmental damage, and ensure that illegal or harmful goods do not enter the country.

Products Harmful to Public Health and Safety

The health and safety of the population are paramount to the government of Palau. To safeguard public well-being, the country has established regulations that prohibit the importation of products that pose significant risks to health and safety. These include illegal drugs, counterfeit products, and unsafe medical goods.

Illicit Drugs and Narcotics: Palau has stringent laws governing the importation of narcotics, psychotropic substances, and other illegal drugs. The Palau Customs Service, in cooperation with law enforcement agencies, monitors and controls the import of controlled substances such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, and synthetic drugs. The country has a zero-tolerance policy for illicit drugs, and the importation of these substances is strictly prohibited under Palau’s Narcotics Control Act. As a signatory to international drug control conventions, Palau is committed to preventing drug trafficking and combating the illegal drug trade. Those attempting to import illicit drugs face severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and confiscation of goods. The strict enforcement of these laws is designed to protect the public from the harms associated with drug abuse and trafficking.
Counterfeit Medicines and Medical Products: The importation of counterfeit medicines and medical products is prohibited in Palau. The Ministry of Health is responsible for regulating pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and other health-related products. Counterfeit medicines, which may be ineffective or harmful to consumers, pose serious risks to public health and are banned from entering Palau. Similarly, medical devices that do not meet safety and efficacy standards are prohibited. To protect the public from substandard health products, the Ministry ensures that only approved medicines and medical devices, which comply with international safety standards, are imported. Importers must provide documentation from recognized health authorities that demonstrates the products are safe for use. Any goods that fail to meet these standards are rejected at customs, and the importation may result in legal action.

Environmentally Harmful Goods

As an island nation, Palau has a fragile ecosystem that is sensitive to environmental degradation. The country has adopted import regulations that prevent the entry of goods that could harm its natural resources or contribute to pollution. These restrictions help protect the environment and maintain Palau’s unique biodiversity.

Hazardous Waste and E-Waste: Palau is committed to protecting its environment from pollution, and one of the primary concerns is the importation of hazardous waste, including e-waste (electronic waste), medical waste, and industrial waste. E-waste, which includes discarded electronic items such as mobile phones, computers, and televisions, often contains harmful substances like mercury, lead, and cadmium. Improper disposal of these materials can pollute the soil, water, and air, posing significant risks to the environment and public health. The Environmental Quality Protection Board (EQPB) enforces strict regulations that prohibit the import of hazardous waste and e-waste into Palau. Any shipments of hazardous waste entering the country are subject to inspection and may be rejected or confiscated if they fail to meet local environmental standards.
Products Derived from Endangered Species: Palau has stringent laws in place to protect its biodiversity and preserve the natural environment. As part of its commitment to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), Palau prohibits the importation of products derived from endangered species. These goods may include ivory, animal pelts, rare plants, and other wildlife products. The Department of Agriculture and the EQPB are responsible for regulating the trade of wildlife and wildlife products. The importation of goods that threaten endangered species through illegal trade is strictly prohibited, and violators face heavy penalties, including fines and the confiscation of goods. These regulations are crucial for protecting the natural heritage of Palau and ensuring that endangered species are not exploited.

Products Requiring Import Licenses

In addition to prohibited goods, Palau has regulations that require an import license for certain types of products. These goods require additional scrutiny and regulatory approval before they can be imported into the country. Import licenses are needed to ensure that these products meet Palau’s safety, health, and environmental standards.

Goods Subject to Import Licensing

Several categories of goods require an import license before they can be brought into Palau. These goods are subject to careful examination and must meet regulatory standards to ensure that they do not pose risks to public health, safety, or the environment.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices: The Ministry of Health regulates the importation of pharmaceutical products, medical devices, and health-related products to ensure they meet safety and efficacy standards. Importers of medicines, medical devices, and other health-related goods must obtain an import license before these products can be brought into Palau. This ensures that the products comply with local health regulations and are safe for use. Importers must provide documentation of the products’ safety, efficacy, and regulatory approval from internationally recognized health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Ministry of Health carefully reviews these documents to determine whether the products meet the required standards for public safety and health. Any products that do not meet these standards are denied entry, ensuring that only safe and approved medical products are available in the country.
Agricultural Products and Livestock: The Department of Agriculture regulates the importation of agricultural products, including seeds, fruits, vegetables, livestock, and animal products, to protect local agriculture and ecosystems. These goods require an import license to ensure that they meet the country’s phytosanitary and veterinary health standards. The Department of Agriculture ensures that agricultural imports are free from pests, diseases, and contaminants that could harm local crops or livestock. Livestock, including cattle, poultry, and other animals, must meet health standards and undergo veterinary inspections to ensure that they are disease-free. Similarly, plant products, such as fruits, vegetables, and seeds, must meet phytosanitary standards to prevent the introduction of harmful pests or diseases. The Department also regulates the importation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which require special licensing to ensure that they comply with local safety and environmental standards.

Environmentally Regulated Goods

In addition to pharmaceuticals and agricultural products, Palau also regulates the importation of environmentally sensitive goods. These goods are subject to import licenses to ensure that they do not contribute to environmental degradation or harm the country’s delicate ecosystems.

Chemicals and Hazardous Substances: The Environmental Quality Protection Board (EQPB) regulates the importation of chemicals and hazardous substances, including industrial chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers, and solvents. These substances can pose significant risks to both public health and the environment if they are not handled properly. Importers must obtain an import license for these chemicals to ensure that they meet local environmental regulations and safety standards. The EQPB ensures that imported chemicals are used responsibly and are disposed of in an environmentally safe manner. Importers must provide detailed information about the chemicals’ composition, usage, and potential environmental impact. The EQPB reviews these documents and conducts an environmental risk assessment to determine whether the chemicals meet the necessary safety requirements. If a product does not comply with these standards, it may be rejected or require additional handling measures.
Plastic and Packaging Materials: As part of its environmental protection efforts, Palau has implemented regulations to control the importation of plastic goods, particularly non-biodegradable plastics and single-use plastics. The Department of Agriculture and the EQPB regulate plastic products and packaging materials to minimize plastic waste and pollution. Importers of plastic products must demonstrate that their goods comply with the country’s recycling standards and waste management regulations. Non-recyclable plastics or single-use plastics that contribute to waste are subject to stricter controls and may require an import license or special approval. The government encourages the importation of eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable or recyclable plastics. Products that do not meet the country’s environmental standards may face additional fees, restrictions, or be denied entry. The licensing process helps ensure that Palau continues to prioritize sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of plastic products.

Regulated Consumer Goods

Several consumer goods in Palau are subject to import licensing to ensure that they meet local safety standards and regulations. These products include motor vehicles, electronics, and household appliances, which must pass regulatory scrutiny before being allowed into the country.

Motor Vehicles and Spare Parts: The Palau Department of Public Safety regulates the importation of motor vehicles, including used cars and spare parts, to ensure that they comply with local road safety and emissions standards. Importers must obtain a license to bring motor vehicles into the country, and vehicles must be inspected to confirm that they meet safety and emissions requirements. Used vehicles, in particular, are subject to more stringent regulations to ensure that they are in good working condition and meet environmental standards. The Department of Public Safety ensures that vehicles do not contribute to air pollution and are roadworthy for safe use in Palau. Spare parts for vehicles are also subject to inspection to ensure that they meet safety standards and are compatible with the country’s infrastructure.
Electronics and Household Appliances: The Palau Consumer Protection Office regulates the importation of electronics and household appliances to ensure that they meet safety and energy efficiency standards. Products such as refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and televisions must comply with safety regulations to prevent electrical hazards and meet local energy efficiency requirements. Importers of electronic goods must provide documentation that their products are tested and certified by recognized authorities, ensuring that they do not pose safety risks to consumers. In addition to safety standards, electronics and household appliances must meet environmental guidelines to help reduce energy consumption in the country. Non-compliant products may be rejected at customs or face additional inspection requirements.