Seized luggage contains imported cigars without license

The luggage fully contained imported cigars without licenses. Photo: T.H

The luggage belonged to P.Đ.T., who was born in 1977 in Hanoi. He took a flight from Cuba to Vietnam and transited in Russia.

According to the declaration of this passenger, he carried 95 boxes of cigar of all kinds.

By opening the luggage, Customs authorities discovered it contained all kind of cigars branded Cohiba. Through initial inspection, the customs authority found a total of 95 boxes of cigars (15 cigars/box and 10 cigars/box). However, according to the regulations, those imported cigars must have a specialized inspection license but P.Đ.T could not present the document to competent forces.

Under the current regulations, passengers entering Vietnam are only allowed to bring 20 cigars to comply with the luggage allowance standard and exempt from import tax, not subject to special consumption tax and value added tax.

In the case of exceeding the luggage limit, they are allowed to import only based on the condition that the goods must comply with the regulations on import and export policies and must pay all taxes as prescribed.

Also, according to the regulations, only Vietnam Tobacco Corporation is a trader importing cigarettes and cigars under the state trade mechanism appointed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Currently, the Tan Son Nhat International Airport Customs Branch has sealed all of the cigars for handling.

Here are some pictures of the cigar shipment:

Three luggage contained cigars. Photo: T.H

The luggage was opened for inspection. Photo: T.H

Each box contained from 10 to 15 cigars. Photo: T.H

Cigars were originated from Cuba. Photo: T.H

Each box was sealed carefully. Photo: T.H

The imported cigars must have a specialized inspection license but P.Đ.T could not present the document to competent forces. Photo: T.H

The Tan Son Nhat International Airport Customs Branch has sealed all of the cigars for handling. Photo: T.H