RUSSIA. The Russian government has raised the duty free quota on imports of goods by shuttle traders and regular travellers.
The government resolution doubles the quota amount to RUB65,000 (US$2,189) as of 1 January 2004. To qualify for the traveller allowance, an individual can cross the Russian customs border with no more than 50 kilograms. Travellers will be able to declare goods at customs in oral form, except for certain categories of goods determined by customs authorities.
The ruling will make the limit more easily enforceable and is expected to benefit the so-called suitcase trade from Finland, Poland, Turkey and Cyprus, favourite destinations for Russians returning with goods to sell in local markets.
