Consular Fees

Consular Fees and Formalities and the GATT Policy Negotiations

In relation to the GATT Policy Negotiations, Christopher Mark (1993) provided the following explanation and/or definition of Consular Fees and Formalities: Special charges and procedures –such as documents that must be approved by a designated official–.required by importing countries as a prerequisite for permission to import merchandise. Cumbersome consular formalities are especially widespread among developing countries and, because substantial fees are often charged for required authorizations, they can function as a significant nontariff barrier to trade. See also customs and administrative entry procedures.