Foreigner attempted to smuggle photographic equipment worth nearly a million into Krasnoyarsk
Airport Crackdown on Expensive Camera Gear: 900,000 Rubles Worth of Undeclared Equipment Found in Passenger's Luggage
In an unexpected turn of events, Krasnoyarsk Airport has halted the import of photographic equipment totaling 900,000 rubles. Seven cameras, initially hidden in boxes under the guise of a friend's request for resale overseas, were discovered in the luggage of a 31-year-old man arriving from Beijing.
According to the customs office, the passenger opted for the "green lane" - reserved for passengers without commercial goods. However, the quantity and value of the items triggered the customs officers' suspicions, classifying the situation as commercial, not personal.
The undeclared photographic equipment was meant to be declared and a customs duty paid.
As a result, an administrative case was opened against the foreign passenger. The fate of the expensive camera gear remains uncertain; the court will make the final decision.
(Picture: Krasnoyarsk Customs Office)
Remember these rules when bringing photography equipment into Russia:
- Customs Declaration: Don't forget to declare valuable items, including photography equipment, at the customs office.
- Commercial vs. Personal Use: To avoid issues, make sure you understand the difference between commercial and personal use of your equipment in Russia. Commercial film, television, camera equipment, or drones used in public without permission are illegal[1]. Before you embark on your journey, apply for necessary permits if your equipment is for commercial use.
- Tariffs and Duties: Russia, as part of the Eurasian Economic Union, follows the Common External Tariff (CET), which sets varying tariffs based on product type and country of origin. If your equipment is for personal use and not meant for sale, you probably won't have to worry about high duties for personal items[5].
- Sanctions and Restrictions: High-tech products may be subject to restrictions due to international sanctions, but this usually pertains to imports rather than personal travel items[5].
- Documentation: Carry all receipts and documentation for your equipment to prove ownership and value.
- Permits for Specific Equipment: Some specialized photography equipment, such as drones, may require additional permits to use lawfully within Russia.
Awareness of local regulations can help you avoid any unwelcome surprises during your stay in Russia. Stay compliant to enjoy your travels hassle-free!
[1] Source: Russian Law on Commercial Use of Film, Television, Camera Equipment, and Drones[5] Source: Russian Customs Service), Eurasian Economic Union
- Despite being unaware, the passenger failed to declare his expensive camera gear worth 900,000 rubles, which is a requirement for photographic equipment under Russian customs for general news.
- The photographs taken with the undeclared equipment could have been valuable additions to a news section, such as crime-and-justice, had they not been confiscated during the airport crackdown.
- Without the necessary documentation, the case of the foreign passenger with the hidden camera gear remains technically commercial, despite his personal use intent, as per the rules for bringing photography equipment into Russia.
- To avoid a similar fate, it is essential for travelers to understand the rules and seek the required permissions for their photographic equipment, particularly high-tech items like drones, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey in Russia.
