CUSTOM CODES UNDER REVIEW - RUSSIA, KAZAKHSTAN, BELARUS

Aug. 31, 2010 - After an Aug. 17 meeting with the Russo-German Chamber of Commerce and various business associations wherein they voiced their opposition of the recent increase in customs tariffs placed on household goods shipments into Russia, Belaurs and Kazakhstan, the Russian Economic Development Ministry promised to 'scrap' the customs duty.

The regulation, that went into effect on July 1, introduced without warning, that household goods would be treated similar to those of commercial goods; stipulating a duty of €4 ($5) per kilogram beyond a 50-kilogram limit.

After much resistance, and expatriates incurring costs up to $20,000 for large households, the Federal Customs Service stated that an amendment has been prepared and all that is needed to implement the change is for it to be signed at the commissions' next session. It is unclear at this time of an exact date, however the next session is expected to be held on Sept. 20.

Until the next session is held, it is also unclear as to whether those who have already paid the duty will get a refund.

Suddath will keep our customers updated as we continue to receive more information. For any questions, please feel free to contact us at toll free at 888-727-3730.