NZ Customs releases notice

In recent days four ships have been affected by infestations of Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs. Three have been ordered to leave by MPI and one has voluntarily changed its route to New Zealand. Some of these ships have been deemed to have ‘arrived’ in New Zealand and import declarations have been entered and passed with either Deferred Accounts or Cash Accounts being debited or raised.  Customs advises that for vessels that have ‘arrived’ in New Zealand actions should be undertaken for Custom to clear their cargo:

• Export entries should be lodged for the goods with corresponding Import Lodgement number /Importing Vessel identified in the Description. (NB: Drawback entries would be considered but would not relate to any GST portion as this would need to be pursued through IRD)

• Should the goods subsequently be re-imported back into New Zealand another import declaration would need to be lodged claiming ‘Returned NZ Goods’ status with no duties (incl GST) being payable. This is provided that no Drawback or GST for export has been claimed.

• In the instances where Customs has already approved requests for the cancellation of entries no further action will be necessary however any future requests for cancellation of entries for goods on these craft will not be approved.

One of the vessels, Glovis Caravel, has changed its route prior to arrival in New Zealand so the goods are not considered to have been imported. In this situation there is an additional option to apply for the cancellation of the entry and any subsequent deferred payment debit will be erased or refunded (if paid).