Restoration of Customs Processing Fee and Import Duties on Non-Core Breadbasket Items

The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force, through the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services, wishes to advise importers, customs brokers, businesses and the general public of Cabinet's approved changes to the Customs Processing Fee (CPF) and customs import duty treatment of certain commodities previously benefiting from the breadbasket waiver.

The prevailing CPF and import duty rates have been restored on non-core commodities that were previously included under the breadbasket waiver. The waiver remains in effect for designated core staple commodities considered essential to household consumption, ensuring continued support for basic household needs.

The following items remain covered under the breadbasket waiver:

·      Evaporated milk

·      Condensed milk

·      Eggs

·      Grits

·      Chicken

·      Fruits

·      Vegetables

·      Sugar

·      Bread

·      Flour

·      Rice

·      Baby formula

·      Cooking oil

·      Adult and baby diapers

All other commodities previously included under the breadbasket waiver will revert to the prevailing Customs Processing Fee and applicable customs import duty rates.

Importers, customs brokers and businesses are advised to review their import arrangements, customs declarations, product classifications and applicable tariff rates to ensure compliance with the revised treatment.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force is responsible for updating ASYCUDA World and related customs systems to reflect the approved changes against the applicable tariff codes.

The Ministry recognises the importance of clear and timely communication regarding adjustments that may affect import costs and business operations. Importers and other stakeholders are therefore encouraged to familiarise themselves with the revised arrangements and seek clarification where necessary.

The Department of Trade has also been tasked with monitoring retail price movements and the impact of the policy adjustment on consumers.

The Ministry thanks the business community, customs brokers, importers and the general public for their cooperation and understanding.