Honduras Strengthens Cross-Border E-Commerce with New Customs Measures

By Bufete Mejia & Asociados

As e-commerce continues to expand globally, Customs administrations face mounting pressure to manage increased parcel volumes while ensuring security and fair taxation. Honduras is responding to these challenges by enhancing its cross-border procedures, aiming to create a more agile and secure environment for digital trade.

Recent discussions focused on improving the use of Advance Electronic Data (AED) to enable faster and more accurate risk assessments at the border. Better use of electronic data can help Customs identify high-risk shipments, reduce clearance times for legitimate goods, and strengthen controls against fraud and illicit trade.

Another critical area addressed was revenue collection. Traditional taxation models are often difficult to apply to e-commerce, especially for low-value shipments. Honduras is exploring fair and efficient approaches to ensure that online sales contribute appropriately to national revenue without imposing unnecessary burdens on consumers or small businesses.

Supporting Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) was highlighted as a priority. Simplified Customs procedures, automation, and real-time monitoring technologies are seen as key tools to help local businesses participate more effectively in international e-commerce, opening new markets and driving economic growth.

A central theme was the need for a coordinated national strategy. This includes updating regulations, investing in digital infrastructure, and building stronger partnerships between Customs authorities, private companies, and other stakeholders involved in cross-border logistics.

The immediate next steps involve drafting a work plan to implement these improvements, with a focus on making Honduras’s e-commerce environment more secure, efficient, and business-friendly.