Customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export of items such as antiquities, firearms, medications, religious materials, business equipment and etc. It is reasonable to contact the Embassy of your destination country in Washington or one of that country's consulates in the United States. It is needed for specific information regarding customs requirements. Counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available in many countries around the world. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines.
Mauritanians prohibited items include: alcoholic drinks and pork; Coins; banknotes; currency notes (paper money); traveler’s checks; securities of any kind payable to bearer; platinum, gold or silver, manufactured or not; precious stones; jewelry; and other valuable articles. Printed or written matter, including designs or emblems, capable of promoting crime or public disorder. Radioactive materials. Rough diamonds. Switchblade knives, blackjacks, daggers, and other concealable offensive weapons. Firearms, except for government use. Watches. Weighing and measuring instruments not calibrated in the metric system.
The documents required of Mauritanian importers include the commercial invoice, the bill of lading or certificate of origin, and the certificate of inspection. The certificate of inspection should accompany the imported goods. Also the commercial invoice should contain the name and address of seller and buyer; method of shipment; place and date the invoice was prepared; quantity, description, and price of goods; and delivery and payment terms.
Duties and Taxations. Import taxes are comparatively high. The GIRM plans to reduce taxes on imported goods to about 20% in the coming years. The cost and conditions of obtaining the import/export license had been discouraging for small and medium traders, but liberalization has facilitated their access. Industrial companies can obtain an import licenses relatively easily.
Labeling. Product labeling should be in Latin and/or in Arabic characters. The labeling should show the expiration and production dates, the country of origin, the nature, quantity and quality of the product in the packaging or container. The Direction of External Trade Promotion at the Ministry of Commerce may provide additional information on labeling and marking requirements. | 
