The Guyana Revenue Authority has announced a simplified barrels clearance process where personal effects will no longer be examined and transactions should take no more than 10 minutes.
In a release yesterday, GRA said the new system will take effect from December 1, 2010.
“Where previously the ceiling for the clearing of personal effects was US$500, in light of the nature of items that are so categorized, GRA has now raised the ceiling to allow for the clearance of personal effects valued at up to US$1000 using the Declaration Form (C73). Hence, personal effects with values in excess of US$1000 are required to be cleared using the Customs Declaration Form (C72)”, the GRA said.
Further, under the new system, the GRA will discontinue the examination of personal effects, “except in cases where intelligence gathered would necessitate that an examination be done”. A flat rate will be charged on all personal effects, GRA said. The rate will depend on the type and size of the package to be cleared.
These are as follows:
BARRELS
Jumbo/Large- $6,000
Medium- $5,000
Average- $5,000
Small- $4,000
BOXES/CARTONS
Extra Large/Bin boxes- $6,000
Large- $5,000
Medium- $4,000
Average- $4,350
Small- $2,400
Shippers will now be required to state on the manifest the size of the package and supply a brief description of the content of the consignment.
“This new system will also seek to remove inefficiencies and mitigate instances of fraud and allegations of corruption. Moreover, with the simplified system, once the required information has been accurately filled out, delays will be avoided”, the GRA said.
The Authority appealed to persons conducting business at the various wharves, to adhere to the system and avoid “underhand tactics” to expedite the process.
Persons who have queries about the new system can call the Tax Hotline at 227-7929 Extensions 201 or 258.
