Chamber of Commerce wants stricter controls at Green Lane customs post

GIBRALTAR (Agencies) In a press relase dated yesterday, the Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce has complained about the “startingly low” number of checks carried out by HM Customs on local vehicles crossing from Spain into Gibraltar. It said a survey carried out over a three-day period found that officers inspected just 2% of Gibraltar-registered cars using the green channel. Chamber members are concerned that many locals are shopping in Spain but not paying import duty when returning home. The survey was conducted at specific times over three days in early November and was aimed at recording how many cars entering the green channel were challenged by Customs on whether they had goods to declare. The communiqué continues,>“For Chamber members and indeed all local traders who import goods and pay the relevant duty, such a low inspection regime would appear to be a great enticement for people not to declare any purchases made in Spain as they know they are unlikely to be challenged. It also begs the question whether enough is being done by Customs to curb illegal substances being brought into Gibraltar through the frontier.”

 

“In the lead up to the busy Christmas period the Chamber implores Customs to be far more systematic and thorough in its inspection regime.”

“Where people choose to spend their money is their choice. However, it is for Customs to ensure that import duty is levied on all relevant personal imports."

The Chamber said the findings also showed that despite the economic downturn and the continued weakness of sterling against the euro, many Gibraltar residents continued to shop in Spain, “as is their choice and their right.”