Within a month, ETCB commences 144 misdemeanour proceedings regarding sanctioned goods

Within a month, ETCB commences 144 misdemeanour proceedings regarding sanctioned goods
Photo: Maksu- ja Tolliamet

Within a month, the ETCB has commenced 144 misdemeanour proceedings, imposed fines on private persons in the total amount of 26 000 euros and prevented 120 000 euros from reaching Russia.

“People who cross the border are becoming more aware of the goods subject to sanctions. Customs officials are seeing fewer and fewer infringements arising from ignorance or errors, while cases of concealment are increasing," said Voldemar Linno, Head of the Customs Control Department of the ETCB. “While in the past it was possible for customs officials to have low-value goods subject to sanction returned or surrendered by the person crossing the border, sanctions violations are now followed by proceedings and a penalty corresponding to the act.” 

The most common article subject to sanctions is still the euro banknote. Within a month, customs controls have prevented more than 120 000 euros from being taken to Russia. These cases included attempts to take 25 euros, as well as 8000 euros across the border. Since the sums are less than 10 000 euros, these attempts are processed as misdemeanours. Under expedited procedure, it is possible to impose a fine of up to 1600 euros on private persons for the transport of euros, and up to 2400 euros under regular procedure. During the first month, the average fine has been 190 euros, the lowest 40 euros and the highest 2400 euros.

In addition to preventing the transport of euro banknotes, misdemeanour proceedings have been initiated regarding the transport of various electronic components, data carriers, tools and cosmetics to Russia. In the inbound direction, most misdemeanour proceedings have been initiated for carrying cigarettes.