ATA CARNET

The ATA Carnet system is a perfect illustration of how close cooperation between business and customs can facilitate international trade.

What is an ATA Carnet?

Established under the ATA Convention as a trade facilitation tool, the ATA Carnet, commonly referred to as the “Passport for Goods” is an international customs document that simplify and unify customs border crossing regulations for duty-free and tax-free temporary import and export of goods for up to one year.

The initials “ATA” are an acronym of the French and English words “Admission Temporaire/ Temporary Admission”.

The Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Beirut and Mount Lebanon (CCIA-BML) is the exclusive issuing and guaranteeing body of ATA Carnets in Lebanon.

Benefits and advantages of ATA Carnet

With the ATA Carnet, exhibitors, salespeople, artists, athletes, TV crews, technicians, event participants and business travelers may:

• Travel through customs without paying import duties, taxes at each customs border office;

• Use one unified customs document for all declarations at home country and abroad;

• Use single document for multiple destinations and trips throughout its maximum one-year validity;

• Reduces costs to exporters by eliminating value-added tax (VAT) and customs duties.

• ATA Carnet holders are not required to post securities with customs.

Customs authorities accept ATA Carnets in accordance with the scope of application that they ratified. The goods must not go through any changes while situated in the country of temporary importation.

ATA Carnets cover almost everything except perishable goods, consumable items, and goods for processing or repair.

ATA Carnets mainly cover:

• Goods for use at trade fairs, shows, exhibitions, and sports events;

• Professional equipment;

• Commercial samples;

ATA Carnets are accepted in approximately 80 countries/customs territories. The full list is available here

ATA Carnet Fees:

For Chambers Members: USD 150

Extra trips: USD 30 (up to three extra trips per Carnet)

For Non-Chambers Members: USD 300

Extra trips: USD 60 (up to three extra trips per Carnet)