A Proposed Pathway Towards Future Reform of New Zealand’s De Minimis Threshold

Abstract

Imports into New Zealand are tax-free if the duty and GST payable is less than $60. This has resulted in an effective value threshold of between $226 and $399, significantly higher than many of our trading partners. We examine other nations’ thresholds and border practices with a view to whether NZ should lower its de minimis threshold. We further examine other options, strongly recommending changing to a minimum customs value definition. However, we do not support collection of duties/GST through financial intermediaries, instead proposing the establishment of a multilateral system. Finally, we outline shortcomings in Customs’ cost-benefit analysis and accordingly present three alternative methodologies for future assessment of the de minimis threshold.