What this does: This order cancels a previous tariff concession that allowed specific packaging machinery to be imported into Australia at a reduced customs duty rate (or duty-free).
Who it affects: Businesses importing vertical plastic bag formers, fillers and sealers — industrial machines that create plastic bags, fill them with product, and seal them closed (commonly used for food, powders, or consumer goods).
What changes: From 20 March 2007, importers of this machinery (classified under 8422.40.90) must pay the standard import duty instead of the concessional rate. This effectively raises the cost of importing these machines by removing the duty exemption.
Why it matters: The government typically grants tariff concessions when local manufacturers cannot adequately supply a product. This revocation suggests either that local industry can now meet demand, or that the concession was no longer justified for other policy reasons.