IN an effort to further enhance the system for the clearing of barrels, boxes, packages and parcels shipped here, especially during the Christmas season, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has implemented a flat rate system to be used by consumers, which will take effect from December 1, 2010. The Agency said yesterday that the idea is to make the system “simpler and more time effective for consumers” by changing the previous six-step process as set out by the Authority, and the new guidelines, once followed, should see a transaction concluded in about 10 minutes.
According to the GRA, under the new system, the examination of personal effects will be discontinued, except in cases where intelligence gathered would necessitate such. A flat rate of duty will be charged on all personal effects. However, the rate will depend on the type and size of the package to be cleared, 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
The GRA too has raised the ceiling for the clearing of personal items from US$500 to US$1000, and noted that all items so valued can be cleared using the (C73) Customs Declaration Form. Therefore all items valued above US$1000 will have to be cleared using the (C73) Customs Declaration form, and shippers will now be required to state on the manifest the specific size of the package and a brief description of the content of the consignment, the Agency added. (GINA)