LOW VALUE IMPORT THRESHOLD – FOR PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY TO THE TREASURER’S MEETING WITH THE NATIONAL RETAIL ASSOCIATION

Key Points

Section 22 Not Relevant

•	Australian-based retailers argue that the low value threshold place them at a competitive disadvantage against overseas retailers.   Whilst this is true to some extent, other factors have been reported as driving the growth in online sales from overseas.  These include the current high value of the Australian dollar and lower overheads contributing to lower prices for online goods, a greater range of products and the lack of an effective online presence for some Australian retailers.  Lowering the threshold would not overcome these other factors.  
•	Lowering the low value threshold would increase costs and delivery times for all importers (retailers, wholesalers and individuals purchasing online). 
 	
Section 22 Not Relevant

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