State Customs Committee introducing new measures to prevent abuse in e-commerce

New approaches to customs declaration procedures for goods purchased through e-commerce platforms have been implemented in Azerbaijan's Smart Customs system since June 1, Shahin Baghirov, Chairman of the State Customs Committee (SCC), Colonel-General of the Customs Service, said in an interview with Report News Agency and İctimai TV.

"From now on, identification is carried out through ASAN İmza, SİMA, and MyGOV QR. This increases both transparency and compliance with the rules governing the use of state-provided benefits.

We are confident that individuals who have been abusing this type of trade will now import goods from abroad strictly for personal use. If the goods are intended for commercial purposes, they will have to be declared through standard procedures and the relevant customs duties will be paid to the state budget," Baghirov said.

According to him, e-commerce purchases are primarily made by individuals.

"I would like to share some figures. In 2025, more than 1.2 million people purchased various goods from abroad under simplified e-commerce procedures. The total volume reached $501 million. This is a significant figure. Citizens submitted 16 million declarations. This reflects the value of goods imported under simplified procedures, and when compared with neighboring countries, Azerbaijan holds a leading position in this area.

Our country is ahead in supporting citizen-oriented, socially focused trade and e-commerce.

At the same time, compliance with regulations remains essential. E-commerce does not mean unrestricted importation of any goods. Customs rules must be followed, and the customs value declared for imported goods must be accurate. Regularity is also important, as some individuals attempt to abuse the system by importing large quantities of goods under the guise of personal use in order to avoid customs payments. To prevent such practices, we believe it is necessary to inform businesses and organize meetings with them," he noted.

Baghirov also recalled that there are six methods for determining the customs value of goods.

"These methods are established by international norms, and customs valuation is conducted on the basis of these principles.

One of the primary methods is the transaction value method. Determining customs value based on the transaction value means relying on mutual trust - namely, that the information provided in declarations and supporting documents submitted to customs authorities is accurate and reliable, eliminating the need for additional checks or value adjustments.

In such cases, the submitted information serves as the basis for assessment. It is encouraging that the use of this method has already reached 76.4%. This demonstrates that businesses are increasingly aware of which documents must be submitted and understand the importance of voluntary compliance with customs procedures.

Through voluntary compliance and timely payment of duties, businesses contribute to the state, the economy, and overall public welfare. As these issues are of primary importance, many entrepreneurs operate in accordance with these principles. As a central executive authority, we attach great importance to this matter," Baghirov added.