Doing Business with Belarus

Exporting to Belarus involves several steps to ensure compliance with local regulations. Here’s a clear guide:

1. Research Market Opportunities

   • Understand the demand for your product in Belarus.
   • Analyze competitors and pricing strategies.

2. Verify Product Compliance

   • Ensure your product meets Belarusian standards and regulations.
   • Contact the Belarusian State Institute of Standardization and Certification for specific requirements.
   • BelGISS Website

3. Register Your Business

   • Ensure your business is legally registered to export.
   • Contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for necessary documentation.
   • MFA Website

4. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Identify if your product requires special permits or licenses.
   • Consult the Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade for guidance.
   • MART Website

5. Understand Tariffs and Taxes

   • Check the import duties and taxes applicable to your product.
   • Utilize the State Customs Committee for accurate tariff information.
   • Customs Website

6. Arrange Logistics and Shipping

   • Choose a reliable shipping company familiar with logistics in Belarus.
   • Ensure all shipping documents are accurately completed.

7. Prepare Documentation

   • Include commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
   • Ensure documentation complies with Belarusian customs requirements.

8. Customs Clearance

   • Work with a customs broker to facilitate the clearance process.
   • Contact the State Customs Committee for detailed procedures.
   • Customs Website

9. Distribution and Sales

   • Establish distribution channels within Belarus.
   • Consider partnerships with local businesses for effective market penetration.

Key Contacts

• Belarusian State Institute of Standardization and Certification (BelGISS)
  • Website: gosstandart.gov.by
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)
  • Website: mfa.gov.by
• Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade (MART)
  • Website: mart.gov.by
• State Customs Committee
  • Website: customs.gov.by

Importing goods into Belarus requires compliance with local regulations. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Research Import Regulations

   • Understand the import requirements for your goods.
   • Consult the Belarusian State Customs Committee for regulations.
   • Customs Website

2. Register Your Business

   • Ensure your business is registered with Belarusian authorities.
   • Contact the Ministry of Economy for registration details.
   • Ministry of Economy Website

3. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Determine if your goods require special permits or certifications.
   • Contact the Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade for guidance.
   • MART Website

4. Understand Tariffs and Taxes

   • Check applicable import duties and taxes for your goods.
   • Utilize the State Customs Committee for detailed tariff information.
   • Customs Website

5. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Select a reputable shipping company.
   • Ensure compliance with shipping and labeling requirements.

6. Prepare Import Documentation

   • Ensure all necessary documents are completed, such as invoices and certificates of origin.
   • Verify documentation with the State Customs Committee.

7. Customs Clearance

   • Hire a customs broker to facilitate the clearance process.
   • Ensure all duties and taxes are paid.

8. Receive and Distribute Goods

   • Arrange for the delivery and distribution of goods upon clearance.
   • Establish partnerships with local distributors if needed.

Key Contacts

• Belarusian State Customs Committee
  • Website: customs.gov.by
• Ministry of Economy
  • Website: economy.gov.by
• Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade (MART)
  • Website: mart.gov.by

Incorporating a company in Belarus involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Choose a Company Name

   • Ensure the name is unique and complies with Belarusian naming regulations.
   • Verify availability through the Unified State Register of Legal Entities and Individual Entrepreneurs.

2. Prepare Incorporation Documents

   • Draft the company charter and prepare the necessary documentation, including the founder’s decision to establish the company.

3. Register Your Business

   • Submit the incorporation documents to the local executive committee.
   • Pay the state registration fee, which is approximately BYN 1,000 (subject to change).

4. Open a Bank Account

   • Open a temporary bank account to deposit the initial capital.
   • Obtain a certificate from the bank confirming the deposit.

5. Obtain a Seal

   • Create a company seal as required by Belarusian law.

6. Register for Taxation

   • Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the local tax office.
   • Register for VAT if applicable.

7. Register with the Social Security Fund

   • Ensure compliance with social security obligations for employees.

8. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

   • Some businesses may require additional licenses or permits depending on their industry.
   • Contact the Ministry of Economy for guidance.
   • Ministry of Economy Website

Key Contacts

• Unified State Register of Legal Entities and Individual Entrepreneurs
  • Contact through local executive committees.
• Ministry of Economy
  • Website: economy.gov.by

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Belarus involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct Market Research

   • Analyze local market demand and potential competitors.
   • Evaluate the supply chain and logistics options.

2. Choose a Suitable Location

   • Identify industrial zones and evaluate infrastructure.
   • Contact the Belarusian Industrial Parks for location options.
   • Industrial Parks Website

3. Register Your Business

   • Incorporate your company in Belarus.
   • Follow the steps for business registration through the local executive committee.

4. Obtain Necessary Permits

   • Apply for construction and environmental permits.
   • Contact the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection.
   • Ministry of Environment Website

5. Secure Financing

   • Explore funding options through local banks or investment agencies.
   • Consider government incentives for manufacturing.

6. Design and Construct the Facility

   • Hire local architects and contractors familiar with Belarusian regulations.
   • Ensure compliance with building codes and safety standards.

7. Install Equipment and Machinery

   • Import necessary machinery, ensuring compliance with import regulations.
   • Coordinate with the State Customs Committee for smooth importation.
   • Customs Website

8. Recruit and Train Staff

   • Hire local talent and provide necessary training.
   • Contact the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection for assistance.
   • Ministry of Labor Website

9. Register for Taxation and VAT

   • Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and register for VAT with the local tax office.

10. Begin Operations

    • Ensure all systems are in place and test the production line.
    • Implement quality control measures.

Key Contacts

• Belarusian Industrial Parks
  • Website: industrialpark.by
• Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection
  • Website: minpriroda.by
• State Customs Committee
  • Website: customs.gov.by
• Ministry of Labor and Social Protection
  • Website: mintrud.gov.by

Registering a trademark in Belarus involves several steps to ensure legal protection of your brand. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Check if your trademark is available and not already registered.
   • Use the search services provided by the National Center of Intellectual Property (NCIP).
   • NCIP Website

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Gather necessary information: trademark representation, goods/services classification, and applicant details.

3. Submit Your Application

   • File the application with NCIP either online or in person.
   • Include all required documents and details.

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • Trademark registration fees vary; confirm the exact fee with NCIP.

5. Examination Process

   • NCIP will review the application for compliance and possible conflicts.
   • Respond to any objections or requests for additional information.

6. Publication and Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published for opposition in the official bulletin.
   • Wait for a period (usually three months) to see if there are any oppositions.

7. Registration and Certification

   • If no oppositions arise, the trademark is registered.
   • Receive a certificate of registration from NCIP.

8. Maintain and Renew the Trademark

   • Trademarks are valid for ten years and can be renewed indefinitely.
   • Submit renewal applications before expiry to maintain protection.

Key Contacts

• National Center of Intellectual Property (NCIP)
  • Website: ncip.by

Resolving commercial disputes in Belarus involves several steps and options. Here’s a guide on the process:

1. Attempt Negotiation

   • Start by negotiating directly with the other party to find an amicable solution.

2. Mediation

   • Engage a neutral third-party mediator to facilitate discussions.
   • Contact the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for mediation services.
   • BelCCI Website

3. Arbitration

   • Consider arbitration as an alternative to court litigation.
   • It is generally quicker and can be less costly.
   • Utilize the International Arbitration Court at the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce.
   • Arbitration Court Website

4. Seek Legal Advice

   • Consult with a lawyer specializing in commercial law for guidance on your case.

5. File a Lawsuit

   • If other methods fail, you can file a lawsuit in the Economic Court of Belarus.
   • Court fees vary, so check with the relevant court for details.

6. Court Proceedings

   • Prepare for the legal process, which includes hearings and presenting evidence.

7. Judgment and Enforcement

   • If a judgment is made, ensure its enforcement through legal channels.

Costs

• Mediation and Arbitration Fees: Vary depending on the service provider.
• Court Filing Fees: Dependent on the case type and court; consult the court for specifics.
• Legal Fees: Vary based on the lawyer and complexity of the case.

Key Contacts

• Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BelCCI)
  • Website: cci.by
• International Arbitration Court at BelCCI
  • Website: arbitration.by

When considering doing business in Belarus, it’s important to understand various factors that can influence operations. Here’s an overview of social, cultural, political, and economic aspects:

• Language and Communication

  • Belarusian and Russian are the official languages. Russian is widely spoken, facilitating communication.

• Business Etiquette

  • Formality is valued in business interactions. Punctuality and professional attire are important.

Political Environment

• Government Structure
  • Belarus is a presidential republic with a stable political environment.
• Government Support
  • The government promotes foreign investment with various incentives, especially in technology and manufacturing sectors.

Economic and Foreign Exchange Factors

• Currency
  • The Belarusian Ruble (BYN) is the official currency. Exchange rates can fluctuate, so monitoring is essential.
• Investment Incentives
  • Special economic zones offer tax benefits and simplified regulations for businesses.

Rule of Law

• Legal System
  • Based on civil law, providing a structured legal framework for business.
• Contract Enforcement
  • Strong legal mechanisms exist for contract enforcement and property rights protection.

Infrastructure

• Transportation and Logistics
  • Well-developed infrastructure with railways, roads, and an international airport supporting trade.
• Telecommunications
  • Advanced telecommunications network facilitating business operations.

Key URLs

• Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BelCCI): cci.by
• National Agency of Investment and Privatization: investinbelarus.by
• Ministry of Economy: economy.gov.by