This order removes a tax break that allowed certain plastic products to enter Australia without paying standard import duties.
What it does
- Revokes Tariff Concession Order 0708237, which previously granted duty-free (or reduced-rate) status to specific goods.
- Targets ABS edge banding rolls — plastic strips used to cover the raw edges of furniture, cabinetry, and manufactured boards. These are classified under customs tariff code 3920.30.00.
Who it affects
- Importers, wholesalers, and manufacturers who bring acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) edge banding into Australia.
- These businesses must now pay standard customs duties rather than benefiting from the concession.
When it applies
The change took effect on 24 September 2008 (applied retrospectively from the date stated in the order).
Legal basis
Made under section 269SC of the Customs Act 1901, which gives the Chief Executive Officer (or their delegate) power to cancel tariff concessions when circumstances warrant.