Chattogram customs foils attempt to evade Tk1.40cr in import duties

Chattogram customs officials have foiled an attempt by an Ishwardi EPZ-based importer to evade Tk1.40 crore in import duties through false declaration.

On Wednesday, the Audit Investigation and Research (AIR) unit of the Chattogram Customs House conducted a physical verification of the consignment and found the non-declared goods, which were then seized at Chattogram port.

AIR unit's Assistant Commissioner Rezaul Karim said Nakano International Co Ltd, an export-oriented company from Ishwardi EPZ, had submitted a declaration to import bleached fabric from China, but instead brought in 40 tonnes of home furnishing fabric (for curtains & furniture).

Even though a month and a half has passed since the episode, a Clearing and Forwarding (C&F) agent has yet to submit a bill of entry to claim delivery of the consignment from the port.

He said since the importer had illegally brought in the consignment under false declaration to evade Tk1.40 crore in import duties, legal action will be taken against those involved, as per the customs law.

Based on undisclosed intelligence, the AIR unit blocked the Bill of Lading (BL) of these consignments in its software system for physical verification.

When contacted, the importer claimed that the two consignments were not imported by them and that another entity had done so, using their company's name under false pretenses, the assistant commissioner said.

Officials of Nakano International Co Ltd were unavailable for comment.