Classification for import and export declarations amended

A spokesman for the Customs and Excise Department today (December 13) reminded importers and exporters that import and export declarations for shipments on or after January 1, 2005 must be completed in accordance with an amended classification made to the current edition of the Hong Kong Imports and Exports Classification List (Harmonized System).

These amendments, published in the Gazette on December 10, will take effect on January 1, 2005.

They involve 129 commodity items, mainly including textiles and clothing, food and beverages, pharmaceutical products as well as plastic and metal products.

The spokesman said that these amendments would bring the classification more in line with current requirements through the introduction of more appropriate sub-classifications.

The amendment list is available free of charge through the following channels:

1. Download
   by visiting the website of the Census and Statistics Department (http://www.info.gov.hk/censtatd/eng/prod_serv/services/trade_decl_index.html);
2. Fax
   by calling the Import/Export Declaration Enquiry Hotline 2877 1818;
3. Hardcopy
   by visiting the Census and Statistics Department (17/F and 19/F, Wan Chai Tower, 12 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong) or various paper-to-electronic conversion service centres.

For enquiries, please contact the Trade Classification Section of the Census and Statistics Department (Import/Export Declaration Enquiry Hotline: 2877 1818; Fax: 2824 2782; E-mail: trade-declaration@censtatd.gov.hk).

Ends/Monday, December 13, 2004