• There is no deadline as such for the receipt of the application, however, we encourage you to submit it sooner rather than later. The admissions process can be a bit lengthy as it involves some extra steps and paperwork beyond the mere submission of the Stand Booking Request itself. 

• Consider that exhibitors must have their paperwork complete and their booth fully paid at least one month before the start of the show, so good timing is essential.

Information and proof of business identity is required by Colombian Federal Law. The Colombian government is committed to preventing illegal business practices, such as narcotics trafficking, money laundering, and bribery. By law, this is a standard procedure that MDNA and our co-organizer Corferias must comply with. Please be assured that any propriety and private information and documentation provided is kept strictly confidential. This long-standing procedure is something that all international exhibitors at trade shows in Colombia must comply with in order to conduct business there, and is a security measure designed also for the exhibitor's own protection.

In accordance with the contract, cancellation or withdrawal from the show after admission results in a penalty fee of 30% of the contract price.

• 40% of the contract price is due when the contract is submitted.

• An additional 30% is due (upon invoicing) by or before February 28, 2024

• The final 30% is due (upon invoicing) by or before July 26, 2024

For example, if the total price of an exhibitor’s contract totals US $5,000, the breakdown of payment installments would be as follows:

1.   US $2,000 (initial 40% down payment, of which US $1,500 will be kept as the penalty fee if the exhibitor cancels participation)

2.   US $1,500 (subsequent 30% payment)

3.   US $1,500 (last installment of 30%)

In case this exhibitor cancels their participation, 30% of the total participation price will be retained as the cancellation fee.  Even if the exhibitor decides to cancel before having paid the required 40% down payment, the exhibitor will still be legally liable for payment of the 30% cancellation fee.

While Corferias requires, by Colombian law, to charge 19% VAT to all trade fair participants, regardless of country of origin, exhibitors may try to get a VAT refund for other expenses like product purchases that they might make during their stay. 

All foreign tourists are entitled to VAT refunds on certain products purchased, such as local crafts, toys, linens, household appliances, footwear, leather goods, jewelry, emeralds, etc.

Where can you apply for your refund?

You can apply at the offices of the DIAN (National Tax and Customs Department), located in the international sea, land, and air ports, or at the Special Border Development Unit checkpoint.

What do you need to do?

• Come in person with your VAT refund application.

• Fill in the necessary forms.

• Bring your original passport and a copy thereof or, otherwise, an entry permit proving your migratory status. 

• A copy of the receipts for your purchases.

We recommend you to:

• Show up at the airport more time before your flight to request a VAT refund on all your purchases.

• Go to the DIAN (office of the Directorate of National Taxes and Customs) before delivering your luggage at the airport as they may ask to check your items to refund VAT.

• If the flight is a domestic flight, you must submit the application at the airport where you make the initial baggage check.

For more details on the VAT application process, download the ABC for the Refund of Sales Tax (VAT) to Foreign Tourists in Colombia or visit the National Tax and Customs Department's website.