The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has announced updated measures to enhance the passenger baggage clearance process at Entebbe International Airport, effective July 1, 2024. These guidelines align with the recent amendments to the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA), which raise the baggage allowance threshold for travelers returning from abroad from USD 500 to USD 2,000, provided they have been outside the country for more than 24 hours.
It's important to note that this allowance applies solely to accompanied baggage registered in the passenger's name. It does not extend to gifts, items for distribution, or goods intended for commercial sale. Furthermore, items imported as passenger-accompanied baggage that belong to a company are also excluded from this exemption.
Under Section 46 of the EACCMA, passengers must declare their items to a URA officer and present a valid receipt confirming the purchase value in their name to qualify for the baggage allowance exemption. Goods sent by other individuals for delivery to a third party in Uganda are also not eligible for the allowance.
With Uganda's trade connections expanding through 19 scheduled flights to major trade hubs including China, India, Dubai, and Turkey, there is an increased risk of non-compliance. Some passengers have attempted to disguise commercial goods as personal baggage to exploit the exemption facility. In response, URA has instituted these updated customs clearance procedures to promote efficiency and compliance.
Key Changes in Passenger Baggage Clearance:
1. Timely Tax Payment: Passengers with goods subject to taxation will benefit from a streamlined customs clearance process. Taxes must be paid within two hours of arrival to avoid congestion; otherwise, baggage will be moved to the cargo terminal for further processing.
2. Baggage Weight Limit: Goods with a commercial value exceeding 50 kg will be redirected to the cargo terminal for regular customs clearance, requiring traders to use their tax identification numbers. Dutiable goods include phones, shoes, perfumes, clothing, spare parts, and items belonging to a corporate entity. Additionally, specific limits apply for items brought from abroad, such as:
- Spirits: max 1 liter
- Wine: max 2 liters
- Perfumes and toilet water: max 250 ml
- Cigarettes and tobacco: total weight not exceeding 250 grams
3. Returning Residents Exemption: Ugandan residents returning after one year abroad can exempt personal and household effects from taxes, provided they are used and intended for personal use. However, contraband items, including used refrigerators and computers, are prohibited and will be forfeited after a penalty is paid.
Robert Kalumba, URA’s Assistant Commissioner for Public & Corporate Affairs, emphasized the importance of these changes, stating, “We encourage passengers to familiarize themselves with the new guidelines. These measures aim to facilitate trade while ensuring a smoother customs clearance experience for all.”
See full statement from URA
For more details, passengers can contact URA at 0800-117000 or 0800-217000, or visit the URA website at www.ura.go.ug.
