The Maldives Customs Service has introduced amendments to the Customs General Regulation, banning the storage of tobacco and tobacco-related products in bonded warehouses. This change follows recent updates to the Export-Import Act, as part of the country’s ongoing efforts to control tobacco use and implement stricter monitoring measures on imported goods.
Under the newly enacted 15th amendment to the Customs regulations, bonded warehouses can no longer register to store tobacco products, tobacco alternatives, electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, or any complementary goods related to these products. Previously, these items were permitted to be stored in bonded facilities. However, this change reflects a regulatory shift aimed at discouraging the storage and sale of tobacco-related products within Maldives territory.
The amendment also prohibits the importation of ship-stored tobacco products, alcohol, and pork, which were previously allowed in limited circumstances for specific vessels under Customs control. This regulation signals a move towards reducing the inflow of certain restricted goods and tightening overall import rules.
Vessel Monitoring Requirements Tightened
In addition to the restrictions on tobacco products, the amendment mandates that all vessels arriving in the Maldives must keep their Automatic Identification System (AIS) on at all times. This measure is intended to enhance Customs’ ability to monitor vessel movements, ensuring that shipping routes are consistent with pre-declared routes and reducing the risk of unauthorised goods entering the country.
Failure to comply with these new vessel requirements will result in substantial fines. Ships with the AIS turned off upon arrival will incur a fine of USD 12,970. Furthermore, vessels found travelling along different routes than those submitted to Customs will face penalties of USD 6,485, ensuring adherence to regulated shipping paths.
To deter smuggling attempts, the Maldives Customs Service has also increased penalties for any efforts to transport undeclared goods into the country. Those caught attempting to smuggle goods without proper documentation, excluding the Inward Cargo Manifest or Outward Cargo Manifest, will be fined USD 12,970 for each offence.
Implications for Importers and Shipping Operations
The amended Customs regulations mark a significant step in the Maldives’ approach to managing imports, particularly those involving tobacco products. By restricting storage options and intensifying vessel monitoring, the Maldives Customs Service aims to streamline import activities and enhance regulatory compliance.
These changes are expected to impact importers of tobacco and related products, who will need to adapt to the new storage restrictions and comply with tightened tracking protocols. The penalties for non-compliance serve as a strong deterrent against smuggling and unauthorised route deviations, underscoring the Maldives’ commitment to robust customs enforcement.
