Customs rules for Expo imports to become simplified

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Shanghai will simplify customs procedures for Expo related construction and exhibition materials.

Shanghai will simplify customs procedures for Expo related construction and exhibition materials.

At Expo Park, custom officials are preparing to take care of all the importing supplies and exhibits to make it as easy as possible for all the overseas participants. this means import destined for the building of pavillions or displayed items can forego inspections at the port of entry.

"Here I'm standing at the southwestern part of the Expo Park and this is the warehouse to store expo goods. All the construction and exhibition materials will be imported straight here. And Shanghai Customs will set up an office here for further check-ups--- all is to make it more convenient for Expo imports."

Another two warehouses are also under construction. Work on all three facilities should be completed within three months.

The new regulations also exempt participating countries from paying landing taxes for certain goods. Goods being imported for the event will be allowed to stay in the city for 12 months instead of the usual 6 months. Customs officials say the Expo offers a unique opportunity for some rare items from abroad to visit Shanghai, and they want to make it as easy as possible for importers.

Chen Xudong, Vice Commissioner of Shanghai Customs said During the Expo, various types of goods will be imported to China. For example, Denmark is going to bring its national treasure-- the real Danish Mermaid statue here for exhibition. And we expect more exotic and precious goods to be imported. So we are going to simplify the procedures.

Shanghai Customs said it is also working with other customs offices in places like Shenzhen, Guangzhou to ease the way for expo-related imports to enter the country. These customs regulations will remain in effect until the end of Expo in December 2010.