Importation
Posted on August 9th, 2009
Importation is the commercial activity of bringing into the country products or services coming from other countries. As importing products or services can be of help to the country, the Philippines has established its own rules and regulations in terms of importation to protect the interest of its people and its economy.
Upon every importation, all types of article in the Philippines will be subject to duty. Previously exported articles, once will be imported again, will also be subject to duty. Exception to duty is possible if it is specifically provided for in the Tariff and Customs Code.
Importation Beginning and Termination
When a carrying vessel or ship, which has the intention of unlading, enters the Philippines’ area of responsibility, the importation begins. On the other hand, upon payment of duties, taxes and other charges due which the articles of law has established, or secured to be paid at an entry port and have been granted the legal permit for withdrawal, the importation is then deemed terminated. In cases that the articles being imported are free of duties, taxes and other charges, importation is deemed terminated if they have legally left the jurisdiction of Customs.
Not everyone is authorized to make import entry. These are the following that has authority to make import entry.
- Importers as well as other persons who holds a bill of lading.
- A licensed broker of custom that acts under the authorization of a holder of the bill; and
- A person who has the power to act as attorney-in-fact or agent for each other. (The Port of Collector should approve the duly notarized power of attorney and it is the only continuing power that may be accepted or recognized.)
Filing of entry must be made in the Customhouse within 30 days starting from the date that the last of the package from the vessel is discharged. “Ipso Facto†forfeiture of the goods or shipment will be the result if an importer fails to file the entry as it constitutes implied abandonment.
