Useful information for sending a parcel to Philippines
Every time goods move across international borders, import rules apply. When sending to the Philippines, keep the following information in mind.
The Philippines is an island nation in Asia, whose closest neighbors are Vietnam and Malaysia. While the country is comprised of more than 7,000 individual island, the majority of the 92 million residents live on only 11 of the largest and most hospitable islands. Even so, the Philippines is prone to frequent seismic activity, including volcanoes and earthquakes.
The Philippines has an especially strong relationship with the United States and is friendly with Britain. Until 1935, the Philippines was an American colony. The country became entirely independent in 1946, modeling its government after its mentor in the west. The Philippines, however, has been prone to political upset and unrest and several of the country's presidents have been ousted by citizens that were unhappy with their policies and politics. The Philippines has an active army, navy and air force. There are several recognizable separatist organisations that are moderately active in the country.
While the Philippines used to support its citizens mainly on agricultural products, it is now considered to be an emerging industrial nation. Approximately one-third of the economic base remains in agricultural products, with the remaining portion resting in various service and manufacturing industries. The Philippines produces clothing, coconut oil, copper, fruit, petroleum and electronics. Besides the United States, the Philippine government trades frequently with
China,
Malaysia,
Japan,
South Korea,
Thailand and Saudi Arabia. They aren't particularly focused on trade relations with the United Kingdom, but there is also no real prejudice in that area.
Import Restrictions
When dealing with importing goods to the Philippines, the country makes two designation categories for goods entering the country; your shipment will be considered either an informal or a formal entry. Informal entry covers commercial shipments under a certain value, as well as all personal shipments. Formal entry rules apply to commercial goods over the designated amount, as well as specific categories of products that are considered formal regardless of their value.
The Philippines does restrict some categories of goods from entering the country completely. This can include items such as products that can assist in illegal abortion, including printed material and medications. It is also not permitted to import dynamite, rebellious printed material, obscenity, lottery tickets, illicit drugs,
used clothing and toy guns.
Import restrictions apply to many other categories of products and goods. Licensing, fees and special requirements may apply to pets, household plants, textiles, jewelry, prepared food, beverages, genetically modified crops and products, and pharmaceutical drugs. All plants and animals may be subject to quarantine and examination before they are released. For more information, see the website published by the
Philippine Bureau of Customs.
Useful Information
In order to ensure that your package clears customs as quickly and conveniently as possible, always create a packing list that is as detailed as possible. All items included in the package should be declared, as well as the estimated value of the goods. The Philippines is more lax about the requirements of shipments that are
gifts, but declaration is still necessary. In addition, any licensing or special circumstances that might apply to the item being sent should be completed as usual.
Image © roger_alcantara
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