New Customs Regulations in Russia

A new customs union between Russia, Belorussia, and Kazakhstan was adopted on July 1, 2010 introducing new customs regulations. Those new customs regulations severely restricted the type of household goods and personal effects that could be imported temporary duty-free by foreign citizens leading to a significant increase in customs duties that often far exceed the cost of the move itself.

Based on a recent meeting of Russian Customs officials, unofficial sources are discussing the possibility that the Russian government is expected to waive import customs duties for household goods shipments imported by foreign citizens on a temporary basis. An official release is expected shortly but the precise details of the decision are unknown at this time.

It is important to remember that until the formal decision is published and enacted that the existing customs regulations are still in force and all household goods shipments are subject to import customs duties of Euro 4 per kg.

It is also believed that any proposed changes may not be adopted until the Presidents of the three countries meet in on November 19, 2010.

Again, it is important to stress that these reports are unofficial and further developments will be reported.

Source: Allied International