Maldives Customs to Remove Duty Exemptions for Vapes and Energy Drinks

The Maldives Customs Service has announced that duty exemption allowances for the import of vapes and energy drinks will be removed starting next month.

Speaking with state media, Public Service Media (PSM), Deputy Chief Superintendent of Maldives Customs Service, Ahmed Niyaz, stated that this decision is part of new amendments to the Customs’ general regulations. He explained that the removal of duty exemptions for certain imports is one of the main changes.

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The duty exemptions previously granted for cigarettes, other tobacco products, vape appliances, and energy drinks will be discontinued from 1st August. Niyaz explained that the Maldives has signed many international treaties on health, and allowing exemptions for products such as tobacco is not encouraged by these treaties.

The items that will no longer receive exemptions include cigarettes, vapes, energy drinks, plastic bags, single-use plastics, and land vehicles. In addition to the removal of duty exemptions, the Maldives Customs Service will increase the import duty exemption threshold from MVR 6,000 to MVR 10,000. This change will take effect from 1st July 2023.

Niyaz noted that twenty years ago, this threshold was MVR 20,000. However, it was reduced to MVR 6,000 in 2013. The new exemption threshold is aimed at facilitating quicker clearance of shipments, particularly from popular sources like Shein. When the limit was MVR 6,000, parcels had to be opened and checked. With the new limit of MVR 10,000, shipments can be cleared without needing to open them or require additional documentation.

However, Niyaz clarified that this increased allowance is not intended for local businesses. He emphasised that the exemption would not be granted if the quantity of items suggests they are intended for commercial purposes.

The new regulations reflect the Maldives’ commitment to health treaties and aim to streamline customs procedures while balancing economic activities.