China to Start Two-Step Customs Declaration Program for Certain Cities

China’s General Administration of Customs announced plans to start a two-step import declaration pilot program at 10 ports starting Aug. 24, according to Chinese Customs press release and a post from KPMG. The program allows importers to submit declarations in less steps before the goods are released by customs, KPMG said. The cities involved in the program include Huangpu, Shenzhen and Qingdao.

The program requires importers to declare whether the imported goods are subject to restrictions, inspections, quarantines or taxes, China said. The program also requires importers to submit “all the necessary information” and pay import taxes within 14 days of the declaration date of entry, KPMG said. For dutiable goods, KPMG said, the importer must submit “an application for tax guarantee with the duty collection-related department of the in-charge customs authority.”