Doing Business with São Tomé and Príncipe

Exporting goods to São Tomé and Príncipe involves several key steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand São Tomé and Príncipe’s import regulations and product standards.

2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for tariff and regulation details.

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 non-tariff measures.

5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

   • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to São Tomé and Príncipe.

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

• Chamber of Commerce of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Chamber of Commerce
• Customs Directorate of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Customs Directorate

Importing goods into São Tomé and Príncipe involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Research Import Regulations

   • Familiarize yourself with São Tomé and Príncipe’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 the Customs Directorate of São Tomé and Príncipe.

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

• Chamber of Commerce of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Chamber of Commerce
• Customs Directorate of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Customs Directorate

Incorporating a company in São Tomé and Príncipe involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of company, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

2. Reserve a Company Name

   • Ensure the company name is unique and reserve it with the Commercial Registry.

3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

   • Draft the Articles of Incorporation and other necessary documents.

4. Submit Incorporation Documents

   • File the documents with the Commercial Registry and pay the registration fee.

5. Obtain a Tax Identification Number (NIF)

   • Register for the NIF with the tax authorities.

6. Open a Bank Account

   • Open a corporate bank account to deposit initial capital.

7. Register for Social Security

   • Enroll employees in the social security system.

8. Obtain Business Licenses

   • Apply for any required business licenses specific to your industry.

Costs

• Registration Fee: Varies depending on the type and size of the company.

Key Contacts

• Chamber of Commerce of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Chamber of Commerce
• Commercial Registry
  • Contact through local government offices for detailed procedures.

Setting up a manufacturing plant in São Tomé and Príncipe involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed 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 (LLC).

3. Register the Company

   • Register your business with the Commercial 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 clearances, 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

• Chamber of Commerce of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Chamber of Commerce
• Ministry of Industry and Commerce
  • Contact through local government offices for detailed procedures.

Registering a trademark in São Tomé and Príncipe involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

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

2. Prepare Your Application

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

3. Submit the Application

   • File your application with the Intellectual Property Office.

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • Pay the required fees for trademark registration. Check with the office for current rates.

5. Application Examination

   • The office will examine the application for compliance and potential conflicts.

6. Publication for Opposition

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

7. Receive Registration Certificate

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

Costs

• Application Fee: Check with the Intellectual Property Office for up-to-date pricing.

Key Contacts

• Intellectual Property Office of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Contact through local government offices for detailed procedures.
• Chamber of Commerce of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Chamber of Commerce

Resolving commercial disputes in São Tomé and Príncipe involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1.   Consult Legal Counsel

   • Engage a lawyer experienced in 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. This can be faster than court proceedings.

5. Litigation

   • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the civil courts of São Tomé and Príncipe. Prepare for a formal legal process.

6. Enforcement of Judgments

   • Ensure the decision is enforced through the 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

• Chamber of Commerce of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Chamber of Commerce
• Judiciary of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Contact through local government offices for detailed procedures.

When considering business in São Tomé and Príncipe, it’s important to understand various factors:

Social and Cultural Factors

• Language: Portuguese is the official language and is used in business.
• Business Etiquette: Formality and building personal relationships are valued. Meetings often start with informal conversation.

Political Factors

• Government: Semi-presidential republic.
• Stability: Generally stable political environment, with peaceful transitions of power.

Economic Factors

• Currency: Dobra (STN).
• Key Industries: Agriculture, fishing, tourism, and oil exploration.

Foreign Exchange

• Exchange Rate: The dobra is pegged to the euro, providing some currency stability.

Rule of Law

• Legal System: Based on civil law; efforts are ongoing to strengthen legal frameworks.
• Intellectual Property: Protections are in place, but enforcement can be challenging.

Infrastructure

• Transport: Developing road and port infrastructure; limited air connectivity.
• Utilities: Electricity and water supply can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas.

Key Contacts

• Chamber of Commerce of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Chamber of Commerce
• Government Portal of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Website: Government Portal