Customs can now further support businesses affected by recent weather events by offering payment plans and remitting interest and late-payment penalties for duty payers, following Cabinet approval for the declaration of Cyclone Gabrielle and recent extreme weather as an emergency, under Section 165 of the Customs & Excise Act 2018.
Customs Group Manager Revenue and Assurance, Craig Chitty says Cabinet’s approval enables Customs to build on the support already being offered.
“Damage from recent weather events has affected many people and businesses including the alcohol industry. Customs has been engaging with industry bodies and contacting clients in the affected regions, offering to support them as they recover from the impacts of the cyclone.
“These measures will help to ease some of the financial pressure, offering duty payers who agree payment plans with Customs relief from interest and penalties. We are working with businesses on a case-by-case basis, and where appropriate are putting payment plans in place for money that is owed to the Crown.
“We encourage those who are impacted by the weather events to contact the local Customs office to see what support options are available,” said Mr Chitty.
