Azerbaijan introduces changes in customs
By Nigar Abbasova
Azerbaijan has recently introduced certain changes in its customs system.
The country has changed the import procedure of precious stones and metals that are presented in written form at customs checkpoints of Azerbaijan. The changes envisage introduction of certain restrictions in the sphere and include time limit on the issue.
Individuals will be eligible to import some 20 grams of gold and golden materials, 0.5 carat of processed, sorted, framed and consolidated diamond once a month for personal use without customs clearance charge. Precious materials exceeding the amount will be reported to customs checkpoints in written form. Time limit was not applied previously. Moreover, individuals will also be able to import goods with the worth not exceeding $1,500, without paying customs duties. Until now, precious stones and materials exceeding the sum of $1,500 used to be reported to customs checkpoints in written form.
Certain changes were also introduced for the import of vehicles to the country. The changes envisage mandatory fulfillment of one of the requirements within 72 hours. The requirements include removal of a vehicle from the customs territory, application of certain guarantee methods for the provision of payment of customs duties, preservation of a vehicle under customs control at the territory defined by the customs authority, provision of documents, issued by relevant authorities and confirming breakdown of a vehicle as a result of accident or decision of a state authority on seizure of a vehicle as well as implementation of simplified customs clearance with the collection of defined customs duties.
The changes which are connected with the introduction of time limit also cover the sphere of import of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes. Individuals will be able to import goods (excluding excisable goods and transport facilities) with the cost not exceeding $1,500 without payment of customs duties once a month. The restriction is not applied to goods meant for private use of individuals during their trips. Individuals will also be eligible to import up to 5 kg of sturgeons and 125 grams of sturgeon caviar once a month without paying customs duties. Moreover they will also be able to import up to three liters of alcoholic beverages and 600 units of cigarettes. Previously, individuals were able to import up to 10 kg of food commodities per day. The changes envisage that individuals will be eligible to import up to 30 kg of food commodities per month without making customs payments.
The changes are envisaged in the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers dated 8 July 2016 on amendments to the preferential and simplified rules for goods crossed from customs checkpoints by individuals for non-production and non-commerce purposes. The changes entered into force on August 8, 2016.
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Nigar Abbasova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @nigyar_abbasova
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