There are three main types of duty fraud :
- dutiable goods manufactured in the UK;
- dutiable goods acquired from the EU; and
- dutiable goods imported from elsewhere.
These regimes are subject to different regulations as to whether or not duty is chargeable and, if so, how much. The most widespread duty fraud is commonly known as diversion fraud, involving excise duty on alcohol and tobacco products and there are two types–outward excise diversion frauds and inward diversion frauds.
Figures published by HMCE in their Annual Report for 2002-3 reveal the scale of the revenue losses arising from excise duty frauds. Alcohol frauds resulted in £650 million duty evaded in 2001-02, with a similar figure lost from oils fraud, whilst tobacco frauds produced a massive £3 billion in evaded duty. Customs has introduced several strategies to tackle and disrupt these frauds, but these products will continue to attract fraudsters whilst UK excise duty rates remain so high in comparison to those in other EU states.
Expert London Duty Evasion Lawyers
If you need HMRC Duty Evasion advice advice, we are available to aid you at every stage of the HMRC investigate process. Members of our legal team have first-hand experience and knowledge of the internal workings of HMRC. We can provide you with the very best representation in negotiations with HMRC and defending all forms of HMRC fraud, tax inquiry, tax fraud investigation, criminal tax evasion and HMRC enquiries and investigations. Our team specialises in successfully challenging HMRC decisions and will assist you in every aspect of the investigation.
Our specialist Tax Solicitors and Barristers deliver expert technical knowledge, strong negotiation skills and respected advice, which can make a pronounced difference to eventual tax penalties, charges and liability.
HAVE YOU BEEN CHARGED WITH DUTY EVASION FRAUD? We provide urgent advice and representation to clients from our unique expert team of established Tax and Duties specialist solicitors and barristers with a proven track record of delivering authoritative results. Just call us on 0207 1830 529, or email [email protected].