Updated at 17:53,27-03-2024

Tougher restriction on duty free imports delayed

BelaPAN

The introduction of a tougher restriction on duty free imports brought into Belarus by individuals has been delayed, Mikalay Bursh, a departmental chief at the State Customs Committee, told reporters in Minsk on Thursday.

The proposal to reduce the value of goods that may be imported free of duty from EUR1000 to EUR200 was put forward by the State Customs Committee in May.

Committee deputy head Syarhey Barysyuk said in June that the tougher restriction might be introduced following the end of the summer.

"The decision to enact the measure has not yet been taken," Mr. Bursh said on September 24. "The customs committee was ordered to study the matter thoroughly and, perhaps, find more grounds for introducing the tough measure."

The official said that a similar measure is being considered by Russia where he noted individuals also import large quantities of goods free of duty.

When submitting the proposal to the Council of Ministers, the State Customs Committee said that duty free imports posed a threat to the economy of Belarus.