The Manager of Customs at Entebbe International Airport, Sylvester Kiwanuka, has updated the public on significant changes in passenger baggage clearance at the airport.
According to Kiwanuka, the new measures are intended to streamline baggage clearance procedures in accordance with the amendments to the East African Community Customs Management Act.
In compliance with Section 46 of the East African Community Customs Management Act of 2004, as amended, passengers are now required to declare their goods to Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) officials and provide authentic purchase receipts confirming the value of the items. The receipts must be in the passenger’s name to qualify for the passenger allowance exemption.
Regarding baggage weight limits, Kiwanuka stated that passengers carrying goods of commercial value exceeding 50kg will have their baggage transferred to the cargo terminal for standard customs clearance. This process will require traders to use their tax identification numbers for proper documentation and tax assessment.
Kiwanuka also elaborated on the changes regarding returning residents’ exemptions. He noted that individuals returning after a period of one year will have their personal and household effects exempted from taxes, provided the items were previously used and intended for personal use in their former residence.
However, he emphasized that these individuals must clear their items through the cargo terminal. Additionally, certain used electronic items, including refrigerators, computers, and televisions, will not be allowed into the country.
He further explained that some passengers have been disguising commercial goods as personal baggage to take advantage of tax exemptions. The newly introduced measures are designed to curb such practices while ensuring a more efficient and transparent customs clearance process.