After a tip-off, the Phuentsholing Customs officials intercepted a bus at the main gate on Friday afternoon while it was trying to divert the goods already imported to Bhutan back to India. The bus was carrying hardware and electrical items belonging to one of the hardware stores in Phuentsholing whose license was already cancelled.
The bus belonged to the same hardware shop’s owner.
According to the Customs officials, since the license of the hardware shop was already cancelled the shop’s owner was trying to clear the remaining stock by diverting the goods back to India. However, Customs officials said because the goods were already imported to Bhutan, re-exporting them is not legal. It should be marketed with in Bhutan.
Officials said it is a case of diversion and under the Sales tax, Customs and Excise Act and Rule of Bhutan 2000; the goods are liable for confiscation.
They added that a representative on behalf of the owner reported with application for consideration where the worth of the goods was declared to be Nu.25, 000. However, not satisfied with the declaration worth, the Customs are waiting for the owner to turn up for ascertaining the actual value of the goods.
The goods along with the bus are under Customs’ custody.
