Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) spokesperson Ibrahim Bbosa provided an overview of the customs regulations governing the clearance of goods entering and leaving Uganda. These regulations are set under the East African Community Customs Management Act of 2004, which has been amended over time.
Uganda is part of the East African Customs Union. This means that goods can enter the country after a customs entry or declaration has been made for various purposes such as home consumption, warehousing, transshipment, transit, or for processing in export or free zones.
Goods for Home Use: Goods intended for home use are those imported for sale or personal use within Uganda. If a person or traveler has been outside Uganda for more than 24 hours, they can bring goods worth up to $500 into the country without paying taxes. These goods must be part of the traveler’s accompanied baggage and must be declared to customs.
Declaration of Goods: All goods imported into Uganda must be declared to customs. This process involves using the services of a licensed clearing agent for the respective year. There are, however, some exceptions to this rule. Certain items can be brought into Uganda and released without a formal customs entry or declaration. These items include:
- Mail bags and postal articles
- Personal baggage of passengers
- Human remains
- Diplomatic bags
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Anyone who does not comply with these customs requirements commits an offense and is liable to a fine. Bbosa emphasized the importance of following these regulations to avoid penalties.
In addressing public concerns, Bbosa asked for patience with customs officers, who some have labeled as ‘URA thugs.’ He explained that these individuals are simply enforcing the law to ensure compliance with customs regulations.
Understanding and adhering to these guidelines can help travelers and importers avoid issues and penalties when bringing goods into Uganda.
