Customs to publicly name defaulters who fail to pay dues

Customs has introduced a new rule to publicly disclose the names of individuals and businesses that fail to pay their dues within the required time frame.

The rule, drafted under Article 5 of the Customs Act, applies to outstanding amounts exceeding MVR 10,000. Names will only be disclosed after completing several preliminary steps, beginning with a written notice to pay. Notices may be delivered in person, sent via email, through the Customs portal, or to the recipient’s permanent address.

Information to be published includes:

The publication will appear in the Government Gazette, Customs website, and official social media accounts.

Names will only be made public if the party does not settle the dues or agree to a payment plan within 15 days of each notice stage.

Exceptions include state agencies, companies with majority government ownership, entities carrying out state projects, and those deceased while the debt was owed.