New customs law hits small business

Lindsay Tisch - National Small Business Spokesperson

The Government’s new Customs and Excise Act is another stealth tax on the people who generate jobs and income for New Zealand, says National’s small business spokesperson Lindsay Tisch.

“The extra $16 charge for importing goods worth over $1000 is a blatant tax grab. To call it a “clearance cost” is just spin. The new tax will cost $15 million, approximately $2000 per business. This is yet another burden for businesses already struggling with compliance costs.

“85% of businesses in New Zealand employ less than five people. Every extra cost the Government puts on them means less staff they can afford to hire.

“Before the election Labour promised not to raise taxes and to address compliance costs. This new law breaks both those promises,” said Mr Tisch.

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