Revenue authority warns importers over customs duty evasion

South Sudan’s revenue authority has warned importers against under-declaring goods, submitting false documents and using other means to evade customs duties, taxes and levies.

The warning was issued by South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) Commissioner General Rizig Dominic Samuel in a circular dated Friday.

Samuel urged importers to ensure that goods entering South Sudan through designated ports of entry are properly declared and that all applicable customs duties are paid.

He said customs declarations and supporting documents must contain accurate information on the value, quantity and classification of imported goods, as well as any applicable exemptions.

“Any attempt to evade customs duties, taxes or levies through under-declaration, misclassification, false documentation, concealment, misrepresentation or any other fraudulent means will be treated as a customs offence,” Samuel said.

He said the East African Community Customs Management Act provides penalties for fraudulent evasion of customs duties and the use of false or incorrect customs documents.

Importers found to have evaded or underpaid duties, taxes or levies will be required to pay the outstanding amounts, in addition to any applicable penalties, fines and other charges, according to the SSRA.

Samuel also cautioned that paying outstanding duties or taxes would not necessarily remove liability for a separate customs offence or penalty.

“Payment of outstanding duty or tax does not, where applicable, extinguish liability for a separate penalty or offence,” he said.

The commissioner general urged importers to comply with customs requirements and maintain complete, accurate and verifiable records of their transactions.

He also encouraged traders to familiarise themselves with applicable customs laws and procedures to avoid penalties and other legal consequences.

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