The government has approved the importation of fuel trucks that have been stranded at the Djibouti and Dire Dawa seaports.
The Ministry of Finance of Ethiopia, in partnership with the Customs Commission, announced a new directive concerning the importation of fuel-powered vehicles currently stored at the Djibouti and Dire Dawa Dry Port.
This initiative aims to tackle the challenges posed by vehicles that have been barred from entering Ethiopia, following the government's previous decision to prohibit vehicles categorized under tariff number 87.03.
A thorough evaluation conducted by a government committee, which included representatives from various agencies alongside the Customs Commission, led to the classification of these vehicles based on their purchase dates and customs registration.
The government has determined that vehicles acquired before February 26, 2016, and properly registered with the Customs Commission, will be moved to Diredawa and held there pending further governmental instructions. Additionally, vehicles in transit that meet the same criteria will be permitted entry after completing the necessary customs procedures.
The Ministry of Finance has emphasized the importance of meticulously documenting the details of vehicles classified under tariff number 87.03 that are stored at both Dredawa Dry Port and Djibouti Port.
These vehicles will incur customs taxes calculated according to the exchange rate applicable on the day their customs declaration is submitted.
Only after fulfilling these requirements and making the necessary payments will the vehicles be authorized for entry into Ethiopia. This directive is a strategic response to alleviate the increasing number of vehicles stuck at these ports while ensuring adherence to the nation’s regulations on fuel vehicle imports.
This initiative aims to alleviate the backlog of vehicles stuck at these ports and to ensure adherence to the nation’s regulations regarding fuel vehicle imports. The directive has been communicated to essential government entities, including the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Revenue, the Ministry of Transportation and Logistics, and the Ethiopian Sea Transport and Logistics Service Company.
Minister Ahmed Shide, representing the Ministry of Finance, has reiterated the government’s dedication to resolving this issue promptly while ensuring that all vehicles comply with the required customs regulations.
Vehicle owners impacted by the February 2024 cutoff date should start getting ready for the required customs procedures, which will include settling any applicable taxes.
The Customs Commission will manage the entire process, making sure that all vehicles meet the necessary regulations prior to their entry into Ethiopia.
Addis Insight citing the ministry of finance reported that stakeholders should stay informed and seek guidance as needed for a smooth transition. They are also encouraged to reach out to the Ministry of Finance through the appropriate official channels for any questions or clarifications regarding the customs process.