Keelung Customs (KLC) stated that recently there have been cases that maritime express delivery enterprises (the enterprises) declared consignments subject to import/export regulations using simplified declaration forms. Customs clearance was delayed because the enterprises had to switch to general declaration forms; besides, Customs will impose penalties according to the law. The enterprises shall take note of related regulations to avoid penalties.

KLC explained that according to Article 12, Paragraph 1, Subparagraph 2 of Regulations Governing Customs Clearance Procedures for Maritime Express Consignments (the Regulations), unless otherwise announced by the Customs due to special circumstances, import/export maritime express consignments (the maritime express consignments) subject to specific import/export regulations shall be declared using general declaration forms. In violation of the above regulation by making simplified declaration for non-qualified consignments, Customs shall warn or impose a fine of not less than NT$6,000 and not more than NT$30,000 under the provisions of Article 87 of Customs Act, and the enterprises may be ordered to improve before a certain period of time; the penalty shall be imposed per violation in case of failure to improve before the given deadline. If there is no improvement after three penalties or in the case of serious violation, a suspension of the maritime express consignment’s clearance privileges may be imposed for a period of not more than six months, or its registration may be repealed. The enterprises cannot be cautious enough.

KLC called on the enterprises that they shall fully understand the consignments before declaration in order to check whether certain import/export regulations are involved. Declare the consignments in the proper way so that penalties can be avoided. For more information, please contact Bali Branch, KLC at (02)7727-1670 ext. 6146.