Imports:
- Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Goods) Levy Rate Changes: The levy rate is set to change from January 1, 2024, as per the Climate Change (Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Levies) Amendment Regulations 2023 (Schedule 1 and 2). Minor updates to item descriptions and tariff codes are included in Schedule 2.
- Port of Tauranga Rail Connection: The rail connection to and from Metroport was temporarily closed for maintenance over the Labour weekend from October 21st to 23rd. This may lead to short-term delays for import containers destined for Metroport.
- Labour Resourcing Issues at Port of Auckland: Labour resourcing issues continue to cause delays at Fergusson container terminal for the Port of Auckland. Vessels arriving outside their allocated window are also causing disruptions. VBS bookings to uplift import containers upon discharge are in short supply.
- Container Depot Capacity: There are ongoing concerns regarding container depot capacity, with only restricted dehire slots available at several larger Auckland sites, resulting in delays.
- MPI – BMSB Season: The MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) BMSB (Brown Marmorated Stink Bug) season is underway. Importers are advised to forward all required documents promptly to avoid any clearance delays.
- Customs Exams: There has been an increase in Customs exams in New Zealand over the last few weeks. Some of these exams are causing several days of delay in cargo release, and efforts are being made to expedite the release process.
Exports:
Move Count Restrictions: Lyttleton and Tauranga are experiencing move count restrictions that continue to affect port operations. This is causing late changes to port rotations and some port omissions for exports.
These updates provide valuable information for those involved in the import and export processes in New Zealand, highlighting potential challenges and changes in the logistics and regulatory landscape. It’s important for businesses and individuals to stay informed and plan accordingly to mitigate any disruptions or delays.