Doing Business with Peru

Exporting goods to Peru involves several key steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Peru’s import regulations and product standards.

2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code to understand tariffs and regulations.

3. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

   • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with Peru’s non-tariff measures.

5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

   • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Peru.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

   • Ensure your products meet local labeling and packaging standards.

7. Arrange for Insurance

   • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.

8. Submit Customs Declaration

   • Work with your freight forwarder to submit the necessary customs declaration.

9. Pay Applicable Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay any required import duties and taxes.

10. Track and Confirm Delivery

    • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

• SUNAT (Superintendencia Nacional de Aduanas y de Administración Tributaria)
  • Website: SUNAT Peru

Importing goods into Peru involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Research Import Regulations

   • Familiarize yourself with Peru’s import laws and product-specific regulations.

2. Obtain Necessary Licenses

   • Determine if your products require special import licenses or permits.

3. Classify Your Goods

   • Identify the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.

4. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather required documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.

5. Choose a Customs Broker

   • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Standards

   • Ensure products meet local labeling and packaging requirements.

7. Submit Customs Declaration

   • File a customs declaration with SUNAT (Superintendencia Nacional de Aduanas y de Administración Tributaria).

8. Pay Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and taxes.

9. Arrange for Transportation and Delivery

   • Coordinate with a logistics provider to transport goods to their final destination.

10. Track and Confirm Receipt

    • Monitor shipment progress and confirm delivery upon arrival.

Key Contacts

• SUNAT (Superintendencia Nacional de Aduanas y de Administración Tributaria)
  • Website: SUNAT Peru

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

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of company, such as a Sociedad Anónima (SA) or Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada (SRL).

2. Reserve a Company Name

   • Ensure the name is unique and reserve it with the National Public Registry.

3. Draft the Articles of Incorporation

   • Prepare the company’s articles of incorporation with details on directors and shareholders.

4. Notarize Documents

   • Have the incorporation documents notarized by a public notary.

5. Open a Bank Account

   • Open a corporate bank account and deposit the initial capital.

6. Register with the Public Registry

   • Submit the notarized documents to the National Public Registry.

7. Obtain a Tax Identification Number (RUC)

   • Register with the SUNAT for tax purposes.

8. Register for Social Security

   • Register with EsSalud for employee social security.

Costs

• Name Reservation Fee: Approximately $20 USD
• Notarization and Legal Fees: Varies, generally around $500 – $1,000 USD
• Registration Fee: Varies based on capital

Key Contacts

• SUNAT (Superintendencia Nacional de Aduanas y de Administración Tributaria)
  • Website: SUNAT Peru
• National Public Registry
  • Website: SUNARP

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

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

   • Analyze market demand, location, and resource availability.

2. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (SRL) or Corporation (SA).

3. Register the Company

   • Register your company with the National Public Registry.

4. Secure Financing

   • Arrange funding through loans or investors.

5. Select a Location

   • Choose an industrial area with access to infrastructure and resources.

6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for construction permits, environmental approvals, and industry-specific licenses.

7. Design and Construct the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant.

8. Purchase and Install Equipment

   • Acquire machinery and ensure it meets safety and operational standards.

9. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.

10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Production
  • Website: Ministerio de la Producción
• National Public Registry (SUNARP)
  • Website: SUNARP

Registering a trademark in Peru involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Ensure your trademark is unique by searching existing trademarks in Peru.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Gather necessary details, including the trademark design and the list of goods/services it will cover.

3. Submit the Application

   • File your application with the National Institute for the Defense of Competition and Protection of Intellectual Property (INDECOPI).

4. Examination Process

   • The application will be examined for compliance and potential conflicts with existing trademarks.

5. Publication for Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published for a period during which others can oppose it.

6. Receive Registration Certificate

   • If no oppositions are filed, you receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Costs

• Application Fee: Approximately $150 USD

Key Contacts

• INDECOPI (National Institute for the Defense of Competition and Protection of Intellectual Property)
  • Website: INDECOPI

Resolving commercial disputes in Peru involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Consult Legal Counsel

   • Engage a lawyer experienced in Peruvian commercial law for guidance.

2. Attempt Negotiation

   • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation with the other party.

3. Mediation

   • Consider mediation with a neutral third party to facilitate a resolution.

4. Arbitration

   • Use arbitration for a binding resolution if both parties agree. Peru supports arbitration as an alternative dispute resolution method.

5. Litigation

   • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the relevant Peruvian court. Prepare for a formal legal process.

6. Enforcement of Judgments

   • Ensure the decision is enforced through relevant authorities.

Costs

• Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and length of the dispute.
• Court Fees: Required for litigation and depend on the case specifics.

Key Contacts

• Judicial Power of Peru
  • Website: Poder Judicial del Perú
• Ministry of Justice and Human Rights
  • Website: Ministry of Justice Peru

When considering business in Peru, it’s important to understand various factors:

Social and Cultural Factors

• Language: Spanish is the official language; familiarity is crucial for business.
• Business Etiquette: Building personal relationships is important; meetings often begin with informal conversation.

Political Factors

• Government: Presidential Republic.
• Stability: Generally stable, but it’s important to stay informed about political changes.

Economic Factors

• Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN).
• Investment Opportunities: Key sectors include mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Foreign Exchange

• Exchange Rate: The Sol can fluctuate; monitoring currency markets is advisable.
• Regulations: Some exchange controls exist; consult local financial experts.

Rule of Law

• Legal System: Based on civil law; provides a framework for business operations.
• Intellectual Property: Protections align with international standards.

Infrastructure

• Transport: Developing infrastructure; road and port transport are key.
• Utilities: Generally reliable, but plan for contingencies.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism
  • Website: MINCETUR
• Central Reserve Bank of Peru
  • Website: BCRP