Meaning
Calculation of taxes levied by a government on imported or exported goods based on their classified value and tariff schedule. This customs duty assessment determines the fiscal liability of an importer of record during the entry of industrial components or finished products. The process relies on the harmonized system codes to assign specific rates to the declared transaction value.
Valuation Method
Primary valuation follows the transaction value paid or payable for the goods when sold for export to the country of importation. Customs duty assessment adjusts this figure by adding costs like packing, royalties, transport and certain commissions while excluding domestic transport or post importation construction. If the buyer and seller are related, the authorities scrutinize the price to ensure the relationship did not influence the amount paid.
Administrative Review
Importers have the right to challenge the findings of a revenue office through a formal protest or administrative appeal. This customs duty assessment challenge usually focuses on the interpretation of general rules for the classification of the tariff or the technical specifications of the product. Successful appeals result in a refund of excess deposits.
Compliance Risk
Accuracy in documentation protects the enterprise from penalties and shipment delays at the border. Persistent errors in customs duty assessment lead to increased audit frequency and the loss of trusted trader status.