The final compliance update from the Australian Border Force (ABF) for any year is always an interesting one. Not only does it snapshot the operational statistics of what is, for many, the busiest few months of the year, but it also can potentially give us some insight into the tactical approach of ABF compliance activities for the coming year.
There is no need for speculating this time though, so put down those crystal balls and pack away the tarot cards - this time they are cutting straight to the point:
"Looking to 2019, the ABF will continue to strengthen its capabilities to detect non-compliance and to focus resources on those threats, while further streamlining procedures for those demonstrating strong voluntary compliance behaviours."
The first half of that statement should come as no surprise, as the penalties for non-compliance can be significant, and the emphasis and need for a robust compliance program is well documented.
The Compliance Update specifies areas of 'Specific Interest'. These include, inter alia, the following which Tradewin considers relevant across most supply chains:
As with past quarters’ reporting, the validity of these focus areas are profound. False or misleading information provided on declarations, whether or not resulting in a short payment of duty, attributes the highest number of Infringement Notices (administrative penalties) raised, as well as the highest value of infringements notices raised. Even more condemning is that of the 1,642 import entry lines that the ABF evaluated, 358 were found to contain errors – in some cases multiple errors. This equates to an error rate (by number of lines) of 21.8%. No wonder the ABF are seeking to “strengthen capabilities to detect non-compliance”
Given that the clearly stated focus of ABF is to improve voluntary compliance, and thus reduce the above error rate, it is imperative that importers understand their current exposures, and where appropriate seek to implement processes to mitigate risk, and maximise opportunities
At Tradewin, we handle the details. If you would like to know more about how you can take control of your customs and trade compliance process to protect and elevate your business, please contact us.