PrimaMedia, April 26

Vladivostok businessman wins refund after customs duties dispute

The Primorsky Transport Prosecutor's Office has helped a Vladivostok businessman recover over 430,000 rubles ($4,700) in overpaid customs duties, the supervisory agency's press service reported.

The overpayment stemmed from a decision by Vladivostok Customs officials to recalculate the value of a shipment of plumbing fixtures imported from China. Despite the importer providing supporting documents—including proof of the goods' cost and payment—the customs authority unjustifiably levied an additional 430,000 rubles in duties, citing the absence of agreed delivery terms and confirmation of full payment.

"To safeguard the rights of the business, a formal submission was made to the head of Vladivostok Customs," the statement read.

Following the prosecutor's intervention, the overpaid funds were refunded in full.