Duty-free Goods Supervision: The "Special Attention" from Customs

As a seasoned professional with 20 years of experience in foreign trade, I often liken customs' supervision of duty-free goods to special services for VIP clients—enjoying convenience while adhering to strict rules. The "Regulations of the People's Republic of China on the Supervision of Duty-Free Shops and Duty-Free Goods" serves as the "user manual" for this special service system. Today, we will break down this important document.

Duty-free imports: The "green channel" for customs clearance.

Duty-free goods import follows special procedures distinct from regular goods:

• Unified Import Principle: Import procedures must be handled uniformly by the operating entity, just like group tickets must be purchased collectively by the leader
• Special Customs Declaration Form: A specialized customs declaration form stamped with the filing seal must be used, which serves as the "ID card" for duty-free goods.
• Transshipment Requirements: Cross-region imports must follow transshipment regulations, similar to special arrangements for connecting flights

Remember the case in 2018 where a certain duty-free group was penalized for importing goods in batches without unified declaration? That was a lesson in failing to fully grasp the "unified import" requirement.

Warehouse Management: The "Transparent Safe" of Customs

Duty-free goods supervision warehouses are key customs focus areas, with mandatory operational standards:

• Dual Permit System: Both inbound and outbound movements require completing the Duty-free Goods In/Out Supervised Warehouse Permit, like dual verification for bank vaults
• No Processing Rule: After warehousing, unauthorized processing or assembly is prohibited, and the goods must remain in their "original factory" condition.
• Exception Handling Process: Overages/shortages must be reported immediately in writing, just like mandatory reporting for discrepancies in valuable goods transportation

I once witnessed a duty-free shop at an airport where cosmetics deteriorated due to uncontrolled warehouse temperature. Timely reporting of the damage prevented greater losses, demonstrating the value of compliance with regulations.

Sales Specification: Precise "Target Customer Group"

Different types of duty-free shops have strict sales restrictions:

• Port duty-free shops: Service targets are limited to inbound/outbound passengers, requiring verification of transportation documents
• Downtown duty-free shops: Only serve outbound foreign passengers, with goods to be delivered in restricted areas
• Diplomatic personnel stores: Service targets have strict diplomatic status restrictions

Special Reminder: All duty-free tobacco and alcohol products must be labeled with the phrase "Duty Not Paid in China," which serves as a "customs anti-counterfeiting mark."

Daily Operations: Meticulous "Health Check"

Duty-free shops need to establish comprehensive daily management systems:

• Quarterly verification system: Submit the Duty-Free Goods Detailed Ledger before the 25th of the first month each quarter, similar to regular health check reports
• Damage handling procedures: Differentiate between force majeure and human factors, adopting different handling methods
• Expired goods disposal: Requires supervised return or destruction by customs, cannot be handled independently

A well-known duty-free operator was once suspended for three months due to untimely write-offs, a cost that reminds us of the importance of regular "health checks."

Digital Processing: Customs' "Online Service Hall"

Modern customs services now operate through both online and offline channels:

• Internet + Customs platform: Allows 24/7 online processing of related services
• One-time on-site processing: Most services can be completed with "just one visit"
• 12360 hotline: Provides round-the-clock consultation services

New operators are advised to prioritize online processing, which improves efficiency while reducing errors - practical advice from industry veterans.

The "Golden Key" to Compliance Management

Engaging in duty-free operations is like participating in a competition with clearly defined rules, where customs supervision measures serve as the rulebook. Mastering these key points allows you to navigate the "high-end game" of duty-free operations with ease:

• Establish a comprehensive document management system
• Conduct regular employee training on regulatory requirements
• Maintain good communication with customs authorities
• Utilize digital tools to enhance compliance efficiency

Remember, in the special field of duty-free goods, compliance is not a cost but the most core competitiveness. As I often say to clients: "Only those who understand the rules can play the game well."