Customs Fines in Senegal
Reports from Dakar, Senegal highlight a recent resurgence in customs fines levied on vessels.
Correspondents McLeans-WAMS advise that severe and unpredictable customs fines are being imposed by the Senegalese authorities for cargo shortage, whether bagged or bulk.
The customs procedure can also result in delays. Correspondents report that rather than giving an early warning of a potential customs violation, the customs authorities will directly issue an administrative arrest order.
This is supported by TCI who add that customs fines are not limited to cargo shortages at discharge. Discrepancies in declarations of in-transit cargo, ships’ stores, fuel and lubricating oils will also attract significant penalties from the customs authorities.
The McLeans-WAM circular can be read here.