Iraq
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List of items prohibited from entering or leaving Iraq
General
The current position within the Iraqi Customs is that of a very fragmented Service with no high level strategy or uniformity of approach being applied at the Controls.
The lead in policy approach for a particular region is normally formulated by the Local Governance in conjunction (usually seeking approval from) the local coalition military commander in the area.
The actual border crossing points are varying states of dilapidation and disrepair.
The full extent of this is not clear and no high level policy for reparation appears to be in place.
(For the most up to date information on the current status and prevailing conditions at the borders, it is essential to use the UNJLC website, or call the UNJLC helpdesk).
The CPA has declared a suspension of all forms of taxation on imports and export, true duty free State. This is valid until 31 Dec 2003. From 01 Jan 2004 there will be a 5% reconstruction levy on many imports into Iraq.
There is however, a detailed list of prohibitions and restricted items that are not allowed to be moved in or out Iraq.
Iraq Customs and Immigration Report (UNJLC)
Executive Summary
The prevailing Customs regime in post-conflict Iraq has an important impact on the ability of the UN and the humanitarian community to sustain delivery of required aid, and on the ability of the Iraqi economy to recover and provide for the needs of the Iraqi people.
UNJLC has been active in facilitating the movement of humanitarian aid into Iraq through numerous means, including reducing the requirements normally imposed by neighbouring countries, arranging for the opening of special humanitarian lanes, and ensuring the maximum co-operation of Customs authorities.
A study of the situation at land, sea and air entry points has suggested several key issues of immediate and medium concern. Immediate issues include the potential of imposing unauthorised imposts on humanitarian aid; security concerns of neighbouring countries and resultant potential for bottlenecks; and the risk to the passage of humanitarian aid due to stricter movement control across borders. Medium term issues include the needs for a revitalised and professional Iraqi Customs service, the issue of training and systems, the risk of imposts on the eventual re-export of humanitarian equipment, and the return of Iraq to international Customs organisations.
The UN may have an active role to play to address these issues.
