TAXES AND CUSTOMS IN PERU

When tax challenges arise, both accountants and tax attorneys offer valuable support. Yet the word attorney signals more than just financial advice—it suggests you’re entering a legal arena where precision, advocacy, and strategic defense are essential. Tax strategy and legal defense are essential in business activity in Peru.

Taxes – Comprehensive Advisory for Businesses in Peru

Tax law in Peru is constantly evolving, posing risks for international investors. We deliver tailored tax strategies that help companies remain compliant while optimizing their tax burden. At our firm, we don’t just interpret numbers—we decode the law. We craft customized business strategies that fully account for tax implications, regulatory risks, and compliance obligations. Our legal team advises companies from the earliest planning stages through audits, administrative proceedings, and litigation, ensuring protection and clarity at every step.

Corporate Tax Compliance and Planning in Peru

We support businesses in meeting their tax obligations, from accurate filings to efficient planning. Our team helps structure operations in ways that maximize profitability under Peruvian law.

Corporate Income tax rates in Peru

Corporate Income Tax: 29.5%
Dividends: 5%
Value Added Tax (impuesto general a las Ventas): 18%

Personal Income Tax rates in Peru for non-domiciled

Interest from external credits: 4.99%
Income derived from the rental of ships and aircrafts: 10%
Royalties: 30%
Technical Assistance: 15%
Income from sale of transferable securities carried out in the country: 5%
Other income: 30%Corporate Income Tax : 29.5%
Dividends: 5%

International Tax Planning and Double Taxation Treaties Peru–U.S.

For U.S. companies, tax exposure in Peru can be minimized through international planning. We advise on double taxation agreements and cross-border tax strategies to protect global revenue.

Tax Disputes and Litigation with SUNAT in Peru

Conflicts with SUNAT, Peru’s tax authority, can lead to significant penalties. Our tax litigators represent clients in audits, appeals, and litigation, protecting their business interests.

Customs

Peruvian Customs System Overview

Main Authority: National Superintendence of Customs and Tax Administration (SUNAT).
Legal Framework: General Customs Law (Legislative Decree No. 1053) and its regulations.
Key Process: Electronic Customs Declaration (DAM) submitted via SUNAT’s portal or the Single Window for Foreign Trade (VUCE).

Customs Duties and Taxes

Tax/Duty	Rate	Application
Ad Valorem Tariff	0%, 6%, or 11%	Depending on the type of goods
Value Added Tax (VAT/IGV)	18%	Applied to CIF value
Municipal Promotion Tax (IPM)	2%	Complementary to VAT
Excise Tax (ISC)	Variable	Specific goods (alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, etc.)
VAT Perception	3.5%, 5%, or 10%	Based on importer’s regime
Anti-dumping/Countervailing Duties	Variable	To protect local industry

Import Procedures

Clearance Types:
- Advance: Declaration before goods arrive.
- Deferred: Up to 30 days after arrival.
- Urgent: Within 24 hours for perishable or essential goods.
Customs Broker Required: For shipments over US$ 2,000 FOB.
Temporary Warehousing: 30 business days; after expiration → auction or abandonment.
Customs Bonded Warehouse: Storage up to 12 months.

Special Regimes and Benefits

Drawback: Refund of tariffs for exporters.
Temporary Admission: Goods enter without duties if re-exported.
Inward Processing: Import of inputs for transformation and later export.

Key Risks

Misclassification of goods → fines and extra costs.
Missed deadlines → penalties or forfeiture.
Common mistakes: missing documents (invoice, packing list, certificate of origin), wrong CIF calculation, ignoring trade preferences.

Institutional Summary Text

The Peruvian customs system regulates imports and exports through tariffs and complementary taxes. With ad valorem duties of 0%, 6%, and 11%, a VAT of 18%, variable excise taxes, and VAT perceptions up to 10%, it provides a framework essential for business competitiveness. Proper classification, use of special regimes, and compliance with deadlines are crucial to optimize operations and avoid sanctions.