As an experienced provider of import services to companies wishing to enter the Colombian market, we cannot overstate the importance of having a knowledgeable and established IOR (Importer of Record) during entry into the country. An IOR is somebody who is responsible for ensuring that goods are imported according to the laws and regulations of Colombia and it is required as part of your submission to INVIMA (Instituto Nacional de Vigilancia de Medicamentos y Alimentos) for a market clearance registration certificate.
While it may seem like a minor step in the process of bringing your product to market, failure to comply with import regulations can undermine your efforts leading to delays, financial costs, and ultimately jeopardize the introduction of your product to the Colombian market. Our IOR service is designed to facilitate your entry into Colombia and expedite the process of bringing your product to market.
Working with an established IOR is essential for companies that don’t have a legal presence in Colombia and it obviates the need to find a distributor with the proper credentials. The IOR maintains temporary ownership of products being imported, and with that comes significant responsibility to ensure that goods are properly documented and valued, payments of duties, tariffs, and fees are made, and any other matter is handled in a timely and proper manner.
As the IOR takes temporary responsibility for goods during the process, they also assume any liability that may occur, saving the importer from unnecessary and unwanted hassles and frustration.
With a qualified IOR, you will avoid penalties or fines, be provided a defense in the case of legal action, and ensure that risks that may arise during importation are properly addressed.
INVIMA requires an IOR with a CCAA (Certificado de Capacidad de Almacenamiento y Acondicionamiento (CCAA) in order to achieve market clearance and is driven in response to Resolution 4002 of 2007. The CCAA is designed to ensure that the necessary safety and health requirements are met for products imported into Colombia.
