Customs Valuation Challenges in Multinational Enterprises’ Controlled Transactions: An African Perspective

Abstract

Purpose: The paper aims, from an African perspective, to investigate the practice of inconsistent custom duty valuations experienced by related MNEs and to explore the impact this may have on MNEs. Design/Methodology/Approach: Perceptions from industry experts from various African countries were sought by means of a questionnaire and supplemental literature was reviewed with a view to address the stated objectives. Findings: The main findings point to custom officials’ lack of knowledge of transfer pricing principles, possible corruption by custom officials and custom authorities keeping reference prices. The impact on MNEs appear to mainly relate to additional costs in the form of storage, consignment seizure, and lengthy court battles. Implications/Originality/Value: Strategies to address challenges arising in custom valuations suggest training of customs officials, coordination and exchange of information between relevant departments within the revenue authority and making use of advanced pricing agreements.

Keywords

• Customs valuation
• GATT
• Transfer Pricing
• MNE
• Controlled transactions