The Bolivian government generally does not apply specific restrictions, such as permits or import licenses, to trade in industrial and commercial goods.  However, due to protectionist policies it is mandatory to submit a prior authorization to import certain products, such as soybean and sunflower oils, fruit juices, water, garments and clothing accessories, textiles, footwear, and certain furniture and household appliances.  The importation of guns and ammunition for civilian use is highly regulated and controlled.  Bolivia has officially banned all used-clothing imports and other used fabric items including bedding, used shoes, and damaged textile articles.  Nonetheless, the wide importation of used clothing persists.  To protect the clothing industry, the Bolivian government imposes regulations that in practice delay the import of some goods.  Hundreds of products, mostly clothing and shoes, are affected by a 60-day time limit to process and authorize imports.  The maximum age of cars permitted for import is one year.  Bolivia prohibits the importation of diesel vehicles with engine displacement smaller than 4,000 cubic centimeters, all vehicles that use liquefied petroleum gas, and cars with right-side steering.

Bolivia regulates and will occasionally impose export quotas for the following products:  live bovine animals or fresh bovine meat; fresh, frozen, or refrigerated poultry meat; wheat and wheat flour; corn; and rice.  Soy oil requires special authorization to export.  The National Service for Agricultural Health and Food Safety (SENASAG) issues prior authorizations for the introduction of foods and beverages, and SENASAG has 30 days to determine approval.  More than 50 products are affected by this determination including soy oil, sunflower oil, sugar (from cane), fruit juices, mineral water, and other sorts of water with or without sugar.  In practice, this regulation often delays the import of some agricultural products by up to a month.