NZ Customs Release Issue 708

Trade between New Zealand and Thailand is set to become easier thanks to a new Customs arrangement signed earlier this week. 

It will strengthen this well-established trading relationship with one of NZ's biggest trading partners by fast-tracking high-security exporters. 

Speeding up exports gives kiwi businesses a competitive edge, and means both Customs agencies can focus efforts on identifying bigger risks across our borders.

A number of Customs clearance forms have been updated and can now be found on our website. The following forms have been updated and are dated February 2023: 218, 263, 224-A and 231.

Customs ask that brokers please replace their current forms with the up to date forms. There will be a grace period of one month and officers will accept both old and new forms, however we strongly encourage brokerages to update their records as soon as possible.
 
Low Value Goods process: When New Zealand GST is believed to have been charged by an overseas supplier, Customs requires evidence on the invoice. The invoice should include the overseas registered suppliers GST number as well as specify that New Zealand 15% GST has been included. If Customs is not provided with this information, GST will be charged at the border. If the importer believes they have already paid GST to the supplier, and therefore requires a refund, they must contact the supplier directly.

The annual adjustment to the excise and excise-equivalent duty rates on alcoholic beverages will take effect on 1 July 2023. The annual adjustment is based on movements in the Consumer Price Index over the 12-month period ended 31 March 2023.

Changes to the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Alcohol Levy rates will also take effect on 1 July 2023.

Alcohol products removed from a licensed manufacturing area or imported after midnight on 30 June 2023 will be subject to the new rates.

This week the New Zealand-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (FTA) came into force, opening new opportunities for exporters.

For New Zealand exporters, the FTA levels the playing field, with tariffs removed from almost all goods going to the UK from day one, including wine, honey, onions and kiwifruit. This agreement will improve access for services, cut red tape, streamline customs and make it easier for professionals from both countries to live, work and travel.

Changes to the Clean Car Standard and Clean Car Discount are set to take effect soon. 

The Clean Car Standard is aimed at importers and the Clean Car Discount is aimed at buyers. The two programmes work together to influence the supply and demand for zero and low emission vehicles.

Customs is pleased to have been voted the second most attractive employer in New Zealand by Randstad New Zealand 2023 Employer Brand Research survey!

Customs was recognised particularly for providing job security and career progression. 

Nigel Foster, Customs Deputy Chief Executive People and Capability, has welcomed the recognition alongside its key airline partner that affirms the New Zealand border is back in an enviable position, with much to offer to prospective employees. 

Customs is aware of an online scam offering people a new car, in exchange for payments and personal details.

Customs discovered the scam following an interaction with an elderly man at a Customs Service Desk.