Customs-clearing tax in Thailand draws fire

A change in the fees charged for customs-clearing services in Thailand was announced in July 2002. The air express industry believes that the change in policy represents a breach of the commitments of Thailand to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), because the Thai Department of Customs did not consult with the industry prior to changing the fees. A formal complaint was submitted to the Thai Ministry of Finance by the Conference of Asia Pacific Express Carriers. DHL Worldwide Express and TPG (TNT Post) are two of the members of that organisation. Federal Express Corporation and United Parcel Service have also complained about the adoption of overtime taxes for customs-clearing services outside of standard working hours.