What this does: This order cancels a previous import duty exemption (called a tariff concession) for specific industrial packaging machines.
Who it affects: Businesses importing carton form, fill and seal machines — equipment that automatically erects cartons, fills them with product, and seals them closed. Specifically, this applies to machines operating at 50 cartons per minute or faster (classification code 8422.40.90).
What changes: These machines could previously enter Australia duty-free under concession order TC 0704539. This revocation removes that benefit, meaning importers must now pay standard customs duties.
Timing: The cancellation takes effect from 20 March 2007 (backdated), even though the order was signed on 18 April 2007.
Why it matters: This removes a price advantage for foreign manufacturers of high-speed packaging equipment, potentially benefiting local Australian producers of similar machinery.