The BVI Government announced this week that the Customs Duty exemption period will expire on March 31, 2018.

The Government has recognised the challenges experienced with the procuring and shipping of goods. As such, residents who can provide proof that the items covered under the Customs Management and Duties (Amendment of Schedule 4) Order, 2018 were purchased prior to March 31, 2018, will be allowed to import those goods into the Territory duty free up until June 30, 2018.

Proof of such purchases may include dated payment receipts, wire transfers, credit card payments, or any other documents as approved by the Commissioner of Customs.

The exemption was first introduced after Hurricanes Irma and Maria to reduce the customs duty payable to zero in relation to the importation of certain items. The items covered under the Customs Management and Duties (Amendment of Schedule 4) Order, 2018 include:

  • Generators;
  • Building materials;
  • Wooden and wooden articles;
  • Items of household decoration;
  • Metal implements;
  • Electrical and plumbing fixtures and materials;
  • Ships, boats and floating structures;
  • Vehicles, parts and accessories; and
  • Household furniture and appliances.

This measure was introduced by the Customs Management and Duties (Amendment of Schedule 4) Order, 2017 and was set to apply from 3 October 2017 until 31 December 2017. The end date was later extended to 31 March 2018.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.