Customs to clamp down on misuse of duty-exempt vehicles

 Maldives Customs Service (MCS) has warned that it will begin taking action from today against vehicles imported duty-free for government projects that have not been returned and are being used for other commercial purposes.

The issue was raised last month during a meeting between President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and small and medium-sized business owners, who said vehicles imported under duty exemptions were being retained and rented out after projects were completed. Business owners said the practice undermines fair competition and disadvantages local companies.

In a statement issued on Monday night, Customs said it would begin identifying and searching for such vehicles.

Customs said the vehicles would be taken under its control, investigations would be conducted, and necessary legal action would be taken.