Help needed with Customs - 03/08/06 06:00 PM
I have another problem with Customs. I recently imported a small package of forms from PADI, used to record student details (specifically, for those who understand these things, student record forms and DSD forms). Brought in by DHL. I've done this countless times before with no problems, but this package is being held by Customs who are demanding 50% duty! I have been told that as educational materials these things should be exempt anyway. Customs refuse to discuss the charge or the basis for it, and simply say they won't release it until the "duty" is paid.
I regard this as possibly criminal extortion by a government body, but what can I do about it? Does anyone have any knowledge of Customs rules - what constitutes educational material, what are appropriate rates of duty, etc? And can anyone give me a suitably senior contact in that area who is prepared to listen and respond rather than recite from a pre-prepared script?
I'm not going to pay 50% so I look like losing my shipment. So if Customs offer diveshops some cut-price PADI materials you'll know who they should belong to.
I regard this as possibly criminal extortion by a government body, but what can I do about it? Does anyone have any knowledge of Customs rules - what constitutes educational material, what are appropriate rates of duty, etc? And can anyone give me a suitably senior contact in that area who is prepared to listen and respond rather than recite from a pre-prepared script?
I'm not going to pay 50% so I look like losing my shipment. So if Customs offer diveshops some cut-price PADI materials you'll know who they should belong to.