Meaning
International trade rules dictate that import duties must be calculated based on the actual transaction value of the imported goods. This system is codified as customs valuation GATT Article VII to establish a fair and uniform basis for taxation. It prevents the use of arbitrary or fictitious values for border assessments.
Transaction Method
The primary valuation is the price paid or payable by the buyer to the seller. When relationship influences prevent this direct calculation, customs valuation GATT Article VII provides alternative methods, including computed or deductive values. These alternatives ensure duty calculations remain objective.
Import Duty
Correct classification and calculation prevent the underpayment of tariffs. Applying customs valuation GATT Article VII allows companies to estimate their border costs with precision before shipping. This predictability prevents unexpected tax bills and cargo delays at ports of entry.
Border Risk
Discrepancies between invoice values and market standards cause customs officials to hold shipments. Correct application of customs valuation GATT Article VII prevents such delays, which otherwise disrupt supply chains and inflate warehousing fees. If border officials reject the declared value, the resulting revaluation process can stall critical assembly lines for weeks.
This delay can cause factories to miss production deadlines and face steep customer penalties.