The Cook Islands Customs Department plays an integral role in exporting. We facilitate legitimate trade and help secure access for Cook Islands exports to overseas markets.This section of the website explains Customs requirements if you are exporting legitimate goods, and provides useful information on a range of topics including prohibited exports, permits, drawbacks, the Secure Exports Scheme, and Frequently Asked Questions.
Remember, Customs is here to help. If you want further advice, information or clarification on content in this section, please contact Cook Islands Customs Department (00-682-293-65) or email: revman@mfem.gov.ck
Importing into other countries
The Cook Islands Customs Department is unable to provide information about Customs requirements when goods are imported into other countries. You should contact the appropriate Foreign Diplomatic Representatives to New Zealand to for information about import regulations of the overseas country.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Unlike other Customs administrations, Cook Islands does not provide for refunds of VAT on purchases by travellers.
Permits
Goods destined for export may be subject to the requirement for a third party agency approval to export, for example, an Antiquities Permit. For information on the types of goods that require an approval to export and the information that must be shown on the Customs export entry, see Permits to Export - Alerts.
Prohibited Exports
The Cook Islands Customs Department enforces a wide range of export prohibitions and restrictions at the border.
If you have any doubt about what you may or may not export or take with you, please contact Cook Islands Customs Department or email: revman@mfem.gov.ck
See Customs Fact Sheetfor a list of export prohibitions and restrictions.