BOC urges shipping lines to remove overstaying empty containers

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) will strictly enforce the 90-day dwell time for empty shipping containers at seaports.

According to a statement on Saturday, the BOC called on the Association of International Shipping Lines, Inc. (AISL) to coordinate with affected shipping lines to remove their empty containers, file the necessary declaration forms, and settle the necessary duties and taxes.

“Non-compliance may result in the initiation of appropriate enforcement measures in accordance with existing customs laws, rules, and regulations,” the statement said.

The BOC said the removal of empty containers is expected to free up valuable terminal space and help ease congestion at the Manila South Harbor and the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT). —Jiselle Anne Casucian/VBL, GMA Integrated News