The Ethiopian Customs Commission has warned importers accused of bringing goods into the country using falsified invoices and unauthorised documentation. The Commission said some importers have been manipulating invoice data to declare goods beyond what was approved under their bank permits.

In an urgent circular sent to all customs branches, the Commission instructed officials to tighten inspections and take legal action against importers, customs brokers, and professionals found involved in such illegal practices.

According to the Commission’s Intelligence Directorate, a recent audit of 18 sampled declarations confirmed that certain importers deliberately inflated quantities and values on invoices, enabling them to import goods outside the limits permitted by law. The Commission described the practice as a clear violation of customs regulations.