Services and Regulatory Updates
16 September,2024
Australia is introducing a new cost recovery charge for imported low-value goods to address increasing biosecurity risks, driven by the significant rise in international e-commerce, which saw over 85 million items imported last year.
Effective from October 1, 2024, a new biosecurity clearance charge of 0.36 AUD per shipment (for goods valued at AUD $1,000 or less) will be applied to all imports entering Australia via air or sea. This charge is part of the government’s efforts to ensure swift clearance of low-risk items while protecting against potential biosecurity threats.
SkyNet will be invoicing this as a monthly surcharge of $0.36 AUD per shipment, converted into GBP based on the current exchange rate. This charge is in addition to any existing AQIS and biosecurity fees, which will remain unchanged.
For further details, please contact your SkyNet Worldwide Express account manager or call us at 0208 538 1988.
16 August,2024
A new regulation affecting international shopping has been enacted, as per the decision published in the Official Gazette with the signature of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This regulation brings significant changes for individuals purchasing goods from abroad.
Key changes include:
- Lowered Simplified Clearance Limit: The threshold for simplified customs clearance on goods arriving via postal or express cargo has been reduced from 150 Euros to 30 Euros.
- Weight and Shipment Limits: The 30 kg weight limit for non-commercial goods valued up to 30 Euros will remain unchanged. A flat tax rate of 30% for EU countries and 60% for non-EU countries will apply, with additional taxes like the 20% Special Consumption Tax and banderol fees depending on the shipment’s contents.
- Detailed Import Declaration: For shipments valued between 30 and 1500 Euros, customs clearance will require a detailed import declaration, without any weight limit. This process may involve additional documentation and physical inspections, potentially leading to longer clearance times and higher costs due to increased customs duties and service fees.
- Medicines: For medication shipments valued up to 1500 Euros and weighing up to 30 kg, clearance under simplified procedures (ETGB) will continue with a valid prescription. Tax rates remain at 30% for EU member countries and 60% for non-EU countries.
- Books: Book shipments under 30 kg and valued up to 1500 Euros will continue to benefit from simplified procedures and will be exempt from taxes.
- All Footwear is prohibited
Effective Date: These changes will take effect on August 21, 2024.
SkyNet’s last flight to Turkey is scheduled for Sunday, August 18th. We are actively working on a solution to address this situation and will keep you informed of any updates.
For further details, please contact your SkyNet Worldwide Express sales representative or call us at 0808 538 1988
