The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has introduced updated measures for passenger baggage clearance at Entebbe International Airport. The changes align with amendments to the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA) and raise the duty-free baggage limit for passengers who have been outside Uganda for over 24 hours from USD 500 to USD 2,000. However, this exemption only applies to personal baggage and excludes items intended for sale or distribution.
Under the updated guidelines, passengers must declare goods to URA officers and present authentic purchase receipts. The exemptions do not cover goods brought in for third parties or those belonging to a company.
With Uganda experiencing increased trade, including 19 scheduled flights to major hubs such as China, India, and Dubai, URA has implemented these changes to address non-compliance risks, particularly regarding the misrepresentation of commercial goods as personal baggage.
Key Changes in Passenger Baggage Clearance:
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Timely Tax Payment: Goods subject to taxes will undergo simplified customs clearance, with taxes to be paid within two hours. Failure to comply will result in the baggage being transferred to the cargo terminal for further processing.
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Baggage Weight Limit: Goods exceeding 50kg or of commercial value, such as phones, shoes, and IT equipment, will be directed to the cargo terminal for customs clearance, requiring a Tax Identification Number (TIN).
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Returning Residents Exemption: Ugandan residents returning after one year abroad will receive tax exemptions on personal effects, provided the items are used and not for commercial purposes. However, contraband items such as used refrigerators and computers will be confiscated.
Robert Kalumba, URA’s Assistant Commissioner for Public & Corporate Affairs, stressed the importance of compliance, urging passengers to familiarise themselves with the new guidelines for smoother customs processes.
