Members are referred to the Club's previous advisory of 2 November 2012.
The Association would like to remind members of the importance of taking great care when vessels fill out and complete on board "store lists" as part of the arrival procedure in Argentina.
These lists must be precise, and in particular ensure they include accurate information on:
- bunkers on board
- lubricants
- paints
- chemicals
- spare ropes and lines; and
- any grabs on board
In the advisory of 2 November 2012, members were guided as to the kinds of comprehensive lists that may be necessary in order to comply with local laws and regulations.
WARNING: "Accidental duplication" of a quantity on board may count as an infringement and would be subject to sanction.
Failure to accurately declare on board stores, or even more serious, a non-declaration can lead to sanctions including the seizure of the offending stores. Where seizure is not practical, as in the case of bunkers, the customs authorities may impose the demand for cash guarantees set at the market value of the offending stores.
Such guarantees may take time to arrange and would also have to be placed in local Argentinian currency, at an account provided by the customs authority. The process of both arranging the guarantee, and later taking the guarantee funds out (when the case is eventually resolved) can be time consuming and may come with currency fluctuation risks.
Members should provide detailed guidance to ship's masters and officers in advance of any call to Argentina in order to reduce the risk of significant fines and delay.
In case of any query or concern, members are recommended to contact the Association.
Prepared with assistance from Pandi Liquidadores S.R.L.