5 Things You Didn't Know You Couldn't Import - Bahamas

The Bahamas compared to some countries is very free! But when it comes to importing items, there are some things you aren’t free to import. Here are 5 things you might accidentally try to import if you didn’t know any better.

Firecrackers

In The Bahamas, you are sure to hear firecrackers during the Halloween season. With all that noise you would think people are importing their own fireworks at a low cost. According to Bahamas customs, fireworks are restricted. Well, that’s not completely true, if it’s the opinion of the Comptroller (the controller of the department of customs) that the fireworks aren’t dangerous, you’ll be allowed to import them. Make sure you do your research and request permission.

Trailers

Have you ever wondered why you haven’t seen any trailers around? Not the trailers for towing boats, those are everywhere. The trailers as in caravans used as a home, office, or similar. Yes, in case you were thinking of getting one, they are restricted. They aren’t completely restricted, however. If you get authorization from The Minister, you are free to import it.

Mechanical Games

When you first hear the term mechanical games, you wouldn’t think of it as something you can’t import into The Bahamas. What it really is are games used for gambling purposes. According to the department of customs, if it allows a person to insert a coin and get something more valuable in return then you can’t import it. Of course, if it’s for a club or organization with a valid gaming license you can. Chances are that’s not you.

Imitation Money

Imitation money is another item Bahamians may find shockingly restricted. Don’t think you are getting away with your monopoly money, that’s allowed. The imitation money that you’re not allowed to import are those that look like money used in The Bahamas or anywhere else.

Pornographic Pictures/Books

I suppose in the days where the internet wasn’t common, more people knew about this restriction. Yup, pornographic pictures, books, or similar items that have “indecent” content are restricted. But you could care less right? You have no such interest in these things.

So there you go, 5 things you didn’t know you couldn’t import into The Bahamas. In some cases, you can with special permission. So if you need to write to the minister or comptroller depending on what it is. Check out the full list of prohibited/restricted items on The Bahamas Customs’ website.