The South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) has issued a warning to importers against evading customs duties, taxes, and levies. Commissioner General Rizig Dominic Samuel stated that importers must properly declare goods entering the country through designated ports of entry and pay all applicable customs duties. He emphasized that customs declarations and supporting documents must contain accurate information on the value, quantity, and classification of imported goods.
Samuel's warning was issued in a circular dated September 25, 2026, and highlighted the consequences of evading customs duties. He stated that any attempt to evade customs duties, taxes, or levies through under-declaration, misclassification, false documentation, concealment, misrepresentation, or any other fraudulent means will be treated as a customs offence. The East African Community Customs Management Act provides penalties for fraudulent evasion of customs duties and the use of false or incorrect customs documents.
Importers found to have evaded or underpaid duties, taxes, or levies will be required to pay the outstanding amounts, in addition to any applicable penalties, fines, and other charges. Samuel also cautioned that paying outstanding duties or taxes would not necessarily remove liability for a separate customs offence or penalty. This means that importers may face additional consequences even if they settle their outstanding debts.
The SSRA Commissioner General urged importers to comply with customs requirements and maintain complete, accurate, and verifiable records of their transactions. He encouraged traders to familiarize themselves with applicable customs laws and procedures to avoid penalties and other legal consequences. By doing so, importers can ensure that they are operating within the law and avoid any potential issues.
Samuel's warning is a clear indication that the SSRA is taking steps to crack down on customs duty evasion. The authority is committed to ensuring that importers comply with customs regulations and pay their fair share of duties, taxes, and levies. This move is expected to boost revenue collection and promote fair trade practices in the country.
The East African Community Customs Management Act provides a framework for customs regulations in the region. The Act outlines the penalties for customs offences, including fraudulent evasion of customs duties and the use of false or incorrect customs documents. Importers must be aware of these regulations and take steps to comply with them.
In conclusion, the SSRA's warning to importers is a timely reminder of the importance of complying with customs regulations. Importers must ensure that they properly declare goods, pay applicable customs duties, and maintain accurate records of their transactions. Failure to do so may result in penalties, fines, and other charges.
Key points
- The South Sudan Revenue Authority has warned importers against evading customs duties, taxes, and levies through under-declaration, misclassification, and false documentation.
