Import Surveillance Requirements for Iron or Steel Staples Communiqué No: 2026/8

Scope of the Regulation

The regulation applies exclusively to iron or steel staples falling under the specified HS code. The surveillance mechanism is triggered only when the declared unit value per kilogram is below USD 1.7. Declarations at or above this level fall outside the scope of the certificate requirement.

Mandatory Surveillance Certificate

Where the declared customs value is below the reference threshold, importation is permitted only upon presentation of a valid Surveillance Certificate issued by the Directorate General for Imports. The certificate must be obtained before customs declaration registration and duly declared in the relevant fields of the customs declaration.

Application and Review Process

Applications are submitted electronically through the Single Window System, selecting the industrial surveillance document type and referencing Communiqué No: 2026/8. Applications must be completed with an electronic signature and may also be filed via the national e-government platform.

In cases of technical inability to apply electronically, physical submission is allowed together with official company registration documents. The administration may request original invoices, contracts, transport documents, or additional supporting information. Any inconsistency or missing documentation will suspend issuance until rectified.

Customs Value Clarification and Practical Application

The Communiqué expressly states—in a separate provision—that the surveillance reference value does not replace or determine the customs value under general customs valuation rules.

In practice, for value-based surveillance measures only, it is possible to lawfully raise the declared customs value above the surveillance threshold by including documented overseas cost elements such as international freight, insurance, engineering services, tooling, or other dutiable charges. Where such costs are genuine, attributable, and properly supported, customs authorities accept clearance without a Surveillance Certificate, provided the final customs value exceeds the reference level.

Validity and Legal Effect

Surveillance Certificates issued under this Communiqué are valid for six months. Holding a certificate does not limit the customs administration’s authority to verify, reassess, or challenge the declared customs value under applicable valuation legislation.

Enforcement and Compliance Risk

Given the low unit value threshold, this measure primarily targets undervaluation risks. Incorrect classification, incomplete cost disclosure, or unsupported valuation adjustments may lead to refusal of certificate issuance, declaration rejection, or post-clearance audits. Consistent valuation methodology and robust documentation are critical for compliance.

Entry into Force

The Communiqué enters into force on the 30th day following its publication. Importers with ongoing supply contracts should reassess pricing and valuation structures accordingly.

Compliance Assessment

Although the product category is relatively low value, the surveillance threshold is correspondingly tight. Importers should conduct a pre-declaration valuation check to determine whether a Surveillance Certificate is required or whether legitimate overseas cost components can elevate the customs value above the threshold. Proactive compliance planning will reduce clearance delays and audit exposure.

See relevant legislative document.