Chilean Customs inspectors intercepted a shipment of 32.400 bottles of imported beer at the El Loa outpost (northern Chile).
In light of the operation, the Regional Director of the Iquique Customs, Dennys Beltrand Santos, explained that the procedure, in addition to responding to control efforts to prevent smuggling, in this case was applied on goods that have an additional tax, such as alcohol.
The procedure occurred when the Arica carrier presented itself to customs control with a general import declaration indicating that it was transporting 1.800 cases of beer.
After reviewing the invoice, which was the basis for preparing the document, it was established that the tax payment had been made for only 1.800 packs of beer, that is, 450 boxes.
"Our inspectors found that the tax payment was evaded on 1.350 boxes, equivalent to 5.400 packs and 32.400 bottles, that is, 75% of the load," explained the Director.
The merchandise had not been declared or covered by a document, thus, the crime of smuggling was established. and the driver was arrested as were the beers seized.
"Thanks to the timely detection, tax evasion of $6.949.313 was avoided and now the Customs legal team will file a complaint against those found responsible," said the director.
Those involved risk sentences of minor to maximum imprisonment and a fine ranging from 50 to 300% of the unpaid duties and taxes. In addition, the goods may be confiscated.
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