RESTRICTED  
  
WT/ACC/SYC/23  
 
6 March 2013  
(13-1242)  Page: 1/48  
Working Party on the Accession of the Republic of 
Seychelles  Original: English  
 
 ACCESSION OF SEYCHELLES 
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS AND REPLIES 
The following submission, dated 1 March 2013, is being circulated at the request of the 
Delegation of the Republic of Seychelles. 
 
_______________ 
  
 WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  TABLE OF CONTENTS 
-  General comments .................................................................................................. 3  
II. ECONOMIC POLICIES .............................................................................................. 3  
-  Monetary and fiscal policy ....................................................................................... 3  
-  Investment Regime ................................................................................................. 3  
-  State ownership and privatizatio n, state trading entities ........................................ 3  
-  Pricing policy........................................................................................................... 4  
IV. POLICIES AFFECTING TRADE IN GOODS ................................................................. 5  
-  Trading ri ghts ......................................................................................................... 5  
A. IMPORT REGULATIONS ........................................................................................... 7  
-  Other duties an d charges ........................................................................................ 7  
-  Tariff rate quotas, ta riff exemptions ....................................................................... 9  
-  Fees and charges for se rvices rendered .................................................................. 9  
-  Quantitative import restrictions, including prohibitions, quotas and 
licensing sy stems .................................................................................................... 9  
-  Customs valuation ................................................................................................. 15  
-  Anti-dumping, countervailing du ties, safeguar d regimes ...................................... 17  
B. EXPORT REGU LATIONS ......................................................................................... 18  
-  Export restrictions ................................................................................................ 18  
C. INTERNAL POLICIES AFFECT ING TRADE IN  GOODS .............................................. 19  
-  Industrial policy, in cluding subs idies .................................................................... 19  
-  Technical barriers to trade, st andards and cert ification ........................................ 19  
-  Sanitary and phytosani tary meas ures ................................................................... 21  
V. TRADE-RELATED INTELLECTUA L PROPERTY RIGHTS ............................................. 24  
-  GENERAL ............................................................................................................... 24  
-  Industrial property protection ............................................................................... 24  
-  Responsible agencies for policy fo rmulation and implementation ......................... 25  
-  Participation in international inte llectual property  agreements ............................ 26  
-  Application of national MFN trea tment to foreig n nationals .................................. 26  
-  SUBSTANTIVE STANDARDS OF PROTECTION, INCLUDING PROCEDURES 
FOR THE ACQUISITION AND MAINTENA NCE OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY 
RIGHTS ................................................................................................................. 26  
-  Copyrights and re lated rights ................................................................................ 26  
-  Geographical indications, including appellations of origin ..................................... 27  
-  Patents .................................................................................................................. 27  
-  Plant variety protection ......................................................................................... 28  
-  ENFORCEMENT ...................................................................................................... 28  
-  Criminal Proc edures  .............................................................................................. 28  
VII. TRANSPARENCY .................................................................................................... 29  
ANNEX I ....................................................................................................................... .. 30 
ANNEX II ...................................................................................................................... . 44 WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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- General comments 
Question 1 
We thank Seychelles for the circulation of  the Legislative Action Plan (LAP) on 
7 May 2012.  We would appreciate if Seyche lles could flesh out this LAP and make it 
m o r e  p r e c i s e .   A s  t o  f u t u r e  v e r s i o n s  o f  t h i s  L A P ,  i t  w o u l d  b e  i m p o r t a n t  t o  c l e a r l y  visualise what the adoption dates are and wh at the implementation dates are (via two 
different columns) as these do not always co incide.  It is also important that Members 
are given the opportunity to co mment on draft legislation. 
Answer: 
Seychelles is currently in the process of preparin g an updated Legislative Action Plan, which clearly 
indicates the date of adoption/enactment, and im plementation of legislations.  This updated 
Legislative Action Plan will be submitted on 13 March 2013. 
II. ECONOMIC POLICIES 
- Monetary and fiscal policy 
Question 2 Paragraphs 11 to 13 of document JOB/ACC/29:  Regarding Seychelles' fiscal policy, we 
note that Seychelles authorities plan to re place the goods and Services Tax (GST) with 
the VAT on 1 December 2012, which would apply equally to imported and domestically-produced goods and services.  We are somewhat concerned given the 
recent move (in June) by the Government to  delay the implementation of VAT scheduled 
to be in force by the summer 2012.  There has been no official announcement as to the 
date of implementation.  We would like to  stress that we are financing technical 
assistance for the VAT implementation.  We would be grateful for an update regarding 
the plans for the implementation of VAT. 
Answer: 
Seychelles takes note of this statement; we would like to confirm that the Value Added Tax is 
being implemented as of 1 January 2013. 
- Investment Regime 
Question 3 Paragraph 29 of document JOB/ACC/29:  A ccording to the Summary, the Investment 
Code Act 2005 (ICA 2005) has been replaced by the Seychelles Investment Act 2010 
(SIA 2010).  We take note of the fact that Seychelles provided a copy of the SIA at the meetings the week of 9 July.  We will review  the SIA and submit any questions prior to 
the next Working Party Meeting. 
Answer: 
Seychelles takes note of this statement.  We thank you for your comment and look forward to 
receiving your questions. 
- State ownership and privatizat ion, state trading entities 
Question 4 In relation to the State Trading Enterprise Questionnaire, we welc ome Seychelles' effort 
to provide this questionnaire and the trade data for Members to review. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  - Can Seychelles please clar ify the units of measurement used in the "National 
Production" column of Table 1 in the Annex to the Questionnaire?  It is 
unspecified but does not appear to be the same units as the export data. 
- How does the Indian Ocean Tuna (Ltd.) operate consistently with the principle of 
non-discrimination as required by Article XVII of the GATT 1994. 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the unit of measurement used in the "National Production" column of 
Table 1 in the Annex to the Questionnaire is "tonnes". 
With regards to the Indian Ocean Tuna (Ltd.), Se ychelles does not find any conflict with the 
provisions of Article XVII of the GATT 1994. 
Question 5 
Paragraphs 38 to 45 of document JOB/ACC/29 and Questions 6 to 8 of document 
WT/ACC/SYC/12.  We note that the Seyche lles Trading Company (STC) and Seychelles 
Petroleum Company (SEYPEC) have no monopoly rights and they are presented as 
operating as commercial entities. 
- Could Seychelles confirm that there are no other barriers to market entry, for 
example, preferential access to financ ing for these commercial entities, price 
control and potential government subsidies. 
- Could Seychelles provide information ab out oil exploration legal arrangements? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that it does not impose any of the afore-mentioned barriers to market 
entry, nor any other type of market entry barrier. 
Seychelles can confirm that Petro Seychelles Ltd., the newly created national hydrocarbon 
exploration company responsible for oil exploration in Seychelles, is currently using Seychelles 
Model Petroleum Agreement (1998) as a base to launch negotiations with companies interested in 
undertaking oil exploration in Seychelles.  
Seychelles would like to inform that the Seychell es Model Petroleum Agreement (1998) is subject 
to review and amendments; upon finalisation, an  updated version of the Model Agreement will be 
made available to Members. 
Seychelles submitted a copy of Seychelles Mo del Petroleum Agreement (1998) to the Working 
Party for general perusal. 
- Pricing policy 
Question 6 Paragraphs 46 to 51 of document JOB/ACC/29 and Question 5 of document 
WT/ACC/SYC/12:  Could Seychelles confir m that the adoption of the Customs 
Management Act, by summer 2012, will repeal any provision regarding the 
implementation of a price control regime?  
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the Trades Tax Regulation has been repealed as of 1 February 2013 
and therefore the price control regime is no longer law. 
However, Seychelles reserves the right to introduce price control measures in the event of certain 
internal shocks such as inflationary tendencies.  Should this right be exercised, Seychelles will 
ensure that the price control measures are in  line with the principles of the GATT 1994 and WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  WTO Agreements, including Articles III:9 and III:4 of the GATT 1994, Article VIII of the GATS and 
Article 4 of the WTO Agreement on Agriculture. 
IV. POLICIES AFFECTING TRADE IN GOODS - Trading rights 
Question 7 
In reference to Seychelles' responses to Questions 19 to 30 of document 
WT/ACC/SYC/12, can Seychelles please pr ovide further elaboration on whether 
Seychelles imposes a requirement to obtain a licence in order to be able to engage in 
importation?   
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that to engage in importation for commercial purposes there is a 
requirement to acquire a business activity licence from the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA).  
Even domestic businesses need to acquire a business activity licence to engage in production.  The only case where an SLA licence is not required  is where the business is in the informal sector 
such as a cottage industry production.  
The Business Activity Licence should not be confused  with the need for an import permit (licence), 
which is required only for restricted goods listed in Annex 4 of WT/ACC/SYC/14.  
An importer importing product on restricted list (listed in Annex 4 of WT/ACC/SYC/14) for both 
private and commercial use needs to acquire an import permit (import licence).  
The requirements to acquire such permit/licence is consistent with Article III in that it is not a 
measure designed to afford protection to domestic production and these imported products are 
accorded no less favourable treatment than that accorded to like products of national origin since 
the locally produced like products also have minimum standards set to produce and distribute these products on the local market. 
An import licence/permit is required only for restricted items, as such is not against Article XI of 
the GATT 1994. 
Seychelles does not find these requirements to be inconsistent with any of the provisions of the 
Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures. 
Question 8 Paragraph 64 of document JOB/ACC/29 states that in order to obtain a licence to 
import, the importer must maintain storage fa cilities that comply with certain health and 
environment regulations.  Is this a correct statement of Seychelles' regime?  If yes, 
what are the circumstances under which such a licence would be denied?  If no, please 
explain how Seychelles regulates, if at all, the right to import. 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that its trade policy allows for an importer to import goods from any 
Customs Territory around the world as long as it is not prohibited under Seychelles' laws.  There is 
only one import licensing system in Seychelles which applies to restricted and prohibited items.  
An importer intending to import restricted goods is  required to apply for an import permit (referred 
to as import licence under the Import Licensin g Agreement) from the relevant Ministries and 
Department. 
Seychelles can also confirm that paragraph 64 of the Factual Summary (JOB/ACC/29) makes 
reference to criteria to obtain the business activity licence issued by the Seychelles Licensing Authority.  In addition to these criteria, an ap plicant should not be less than 18 years old.  WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  A business activity licence can be denied if the a pplicant is less than 18 years old, and the storage 
facilities does not meet the Health, Safety and Environment Regulations. 
Question 9 
Paragraph 60 of document JOB/ACC/29:  Seyc helles informed that individuals and firms 
located in or outside of Seychelles have to re gister with the Registrar's General's Office.  
- Does this mean that a foreign company has to be registered in Seychelles in 
order to operate in Seychelles?  
- Is there a lighter registration procedure for foreign companies or are the 
procedures, the documents and conditio ns for registration the same for 
individuals and firms "located in and outside of Seychelles"? 
- Is the registration automatic? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the registration requirements are applicable to both local and foreign 
companies and that the documentations and conditio ns are the same regardless of the location of 
the company. 
Seychelles can further confirm that registration is automatic subject to the applicant meeting the 
requirements of the relevant sections of the Companies Ordinance, 1972. 
Seychelles would also like to inform that in order to expedite the registration process of 
companies; companies can now register online on the following website:  
https://eservice.egov.sc/BizRegistrat ion/WebBusinessRegsitration.aspx. 
Question 10 
P a r a g r a p h s  6 1  t o  6 5  o f  d o c u m e n t  J O B / A C C / 2 9 :   D o  w e  u n d e r s t a n d  c o r r e c t l y  t h a t  t h e 
licence for business activity, including a licence for import/wholesale/retail is a 
requirement in addition to the registration wi th the registrar's general's office?  What is 
the purpose for requiring a licence for im port/wholesale/retail business activity?  
What are the conditions that have to be sa tisfied and the documents that have to be 
presented, apart from appr oved storage facilities? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the registration requirement and the business activity licence 
requirements are for two distinctively different purposes. 
The registration requirement which is prescribed under the Companies Ordinance, 1972, is a 
necessity in order for a company to be recognised under Seychelles law for legal purposes whilst a 
business activity licence is a necessity for the right to trade. 
Seychelles can confirm that in cases of an importer importing for commercial distribution this 
person must have a business activity licence issued by the Seychelles Licensing Authority.  
Seychelles can also confirm that paragraph 64 of the Factual Summary (JOB/ACC/29) makes 
reference to criteria to obtain the business activity licence issued by the Seychelles Licensing Authority.  In addition to these criteria, the following is also applicable: 
(a) An applicant should not be less than 18 years old 
(b) Goods to be imported and sold must be ne wly manufactured or made. No used or second 
 hand goods are to be imported or sold unless specified in the licenses. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  A business activity licence can be denied if the applicant is less than 18 years old, and the storage 
facilities does not meet the Health, Safety and Environment Regulations. 
Question 11 
Paragraphs 69 to 70 of document JOB/ACC/ 29: How are the fees for the different 
business activities determined?  Why are they different?  
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that fees for licenses issued by the Seychelles Licensing Authority are 
determined based on the administrative cost of issuance of the respective licence being sought. 
The differences exist largely due to the varying nature of administrative cost associated with 
different types of licence, for example, certain li censes require more documentation, records and 
inspections, which increase the administrative cost of issuing the respective licence. 
Seychelles can confirm that the licence fees are the same for similar services and that they are not 
trade restrictive.  E.g. the licence for Retail is SR1,200 for five years, same as that for Wholesale 
and that for Import; while that for Tour Operator is  similar to that of Travel Agent, at SR2,000 for 
five years.  
It is to be noted that the fees have been revi ewed as of second quarter of 2012 (see Annex II). 
A. IMPORT REGULATIONS 
- Other duties and charges Question 12 
Please elaborate on how the fees listed in Annex 3 are consistent with Article VIII of 
the GATT 1994, including the requirement that they be "limited in amount to the approximate cost of services rendered". 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the ODCs being referred to in paragraph 75 of the Factual Summary of 
Points Raised (JOB/ACC/29) are not connected to the provision of Article VIII in that they are not imposed for any services rendered.  
These ODCs are permissible in accordance with th e provision of Article II.1(d) of the GATT 1994.  
Fees and charges collected in exchange for a se rvice are listed in Table 5 - Customs service 
charges in JOB/ACC/29.  These fees are in accordance with Article VIII. 
Question 13 
We take note of Seychelles' response to Ques tion 45 that they do not agree to bind the 
other duties and charges at zero.  We discu ssed this as well at our bilateral meeting.  
We continue to have concerns with this approach, and urge Seyc helles to fold these 
ODCs into Seychelles' tariff offer. 
Answer: 
Seychelles is currently assessing its ODCs with a view of meeting expectation of the WTO Members 
having due regard to its own national requirements and specificities.  We note that ODCs are 
permissible under Article II:1(b) of the GATT 1994.  We will provide an update at the next Working Party meeting. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Question 14 
Paragraph 77 of document JOB/ACC/29:  We took note of Seychelles' explanations 
regarding other duties and charges applied for a limited number of goods and invite 
Seychelles to bind its other duties and char ges at zero.  Alternative measures may be 
considered. 
Answer: 
Seychelles is currently assessing its ODCs with a view of meeting expectation of the WTO Members 
having due regard to its own national requirements and specificities.  We note that ODCs are permissible under Article II.1(b) of the GATT 19 94.  We will provide an update at the next 
Working Party meeting. 
Question 15 Please clarify the discrepa ncy between your response to Questions 24 and 26 of 
document WT/ACC/SYC/12.  The response to Question 26 states that goods listed in 
Annex 4A can only be imported with a licence whether for private use or onward 
distribution, while the response to Question 24 states that all goods can be imported 
without a licence if used for private consumption. 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that it has only one system in place concerning import licensing.  
This system applies to both commercial and private imports, and it is applicable only on the 
products listed in Table 7(b) of Annex 2 of JOB/ACC/29. 
Question 16 With respect to Seychelles' continued ban on  the importation of whole categories of 
products such as automotive bodies, left-han d drive vehicles, hides and skins, and palm 
plants, we note Seychelles' response at th e last Working Party meeting, that these 
measures are considered necessary for th e accomplishment of certain health and 
environment objectives?  Can you please elabor ate on your reasoning, especially in light 
of the way the "necessary" standard in Articl e XX has been interpreted?  And, please 
elaborate on why there are no other, less trade-restrictive measures for addressing 
legitimate health and environmental concerns. 
Answer: 
Automotive bodies and left–hand drive vehicles:  Article XX stipulates that "nothing in this 
agreement shall be construed to prevent the adoption or enforcement by any contracting party ... (b) necessary to protect human, animal or plant life". 
Seychelles considers those products can contribute to creating a hazardous traffic condition and 
thus having potential harmful effects on its citizens.  
Hides, skins and palm plants: this measure is compatible with Article XX(d) "necessary to secure 
compliance with laws and regulation which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this 
agreement...". 
As signatory to the CITES, Seychelles considers its treatment of these products to be in harmony 
with Article XX(d). 
Question 17 Regarding paragraph 75 of document JOB/A CC/29:  How are these charges levied?  
Are these fees collected in exchange fo r a service?  If so, what service?  WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Please also explain which of the ODCs included  in Seychelles' offer are currently applied. 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that all ODCs incorporated in the Seychelles' offer are currently in 
application with the exception of the 1% COMESA Community Levy. 
- Tariff rate quotas, tariff exemptions 
Question 18 We take note and appreciate Seychelles' answers to Questions 38 and 39 of document 
WT/ACC/SYC/12, that Seychelles currently does  not intend to implement tariff quotas 
and commits to ensuring that any future tariff quotas comply with the respective WTO provisions.   
Answer: 
Seychelles would like to amend its answer to Question 38 of WT/ACC/SYC/12 to: 
"Currently, Seychelles does not have any intention of implementing tariff quotas in the 
future.  However Seychelles reserves the right to implement tariff quotas should it be 
necessary." 
- Fees and charges for services rendered Question 19 
W e  u n d e r s t a n d  t h a t  t h e  C O M E S A  C o m m u n i t y  L e v y  i s  n o t  c u r r e n t l y  i n  f o r c e .   P l e a s e  
explain when Seychelles will be subject to the Community Levy and whether the level of 
the levy has been set? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the COMESA Community Levy is an instrument of the COMESA 
Customs Union and will only become applicable to Seychelles upon joining of this Customs Union. 
The level which has been agreed for the Levy is an ad valorem  charge of 1% of the landed cost of 
the product. 
- Quantitative import restrictions, incl uding prohibitions, quotas and licensing 
systems 
Question 20 
Follow up on the response to Question 46 (page 13) of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  
Please explain why Seychelles exempts off road vehicles and not other specialty 
vehicles.  
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the exemption does not cover other specialty vehicles (on-road) in 
that these vehicles pose potential hazard to the traffic and citizens. 
Question 21 
Paragraphs 94 to 107 of document JOB/ACC/29:  We note Seychelles' explanations 
regarding the prohibition of some goods, no tably left-hand drive vehicles, automotive 
bodies, said to be necessary for safety or environment purposes.  We ask Seychelles to 
reconsider the matter and look at less trade-restrictive approaches. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Answer: 
Article XX stipulates that "nothing in this agreement shall be construed to prevent the adoption or 
enforcement by any contracting party ... (b) necessary to protect human, animal or plant life". 
The Traffic Law of Seychelles does not allow for left-hand drive vehicles on the road, as it is 
necessary to protect human life, therefore the prohibition.  
Seychelles considers those products can contribute to creating a hazardous traffic conditions and 
thus having potential harmful effects on its citi zens.  Seychelles has very narrow roads, thus 
allowing left-hand drives poses serious risks to the passengers getting on and off such vehicles. 
Question 22 On the Questionnaire on Import Licensin g Procedures (document WT/ACC/SYC/14):  
Question I.1:   
- How many licenses must an importer of each of the restricted products contained 
 in Seychelles restricted list of imports obtain before each product is allowed to be  imported into Seychelles?   
- How many licenses must each domestic pr oducer of the same or similar products 
obtain to be allowed to sell the product in the domestic market? 
Answer: 
Only one import licence (import permit) is required per category of products per consignment 
imported into Seychelles.  Domestic producers only require a business activity licence from SLA in order to engage in such activities.  
Seychelles can confirm that businesses, whether domestic or foreign, must obtain a business 
activity licence in order to conduct the following businesses: 
- Import, Wholesale and Retail 
- Import and Wholesale 
- Import and Retail 
- Wholesale only - Retail only 
- Manufacture 
- Bottling - Liquor  - Motor Vehicle Dealer 
- Storage and retail of petroleum product 
Question 23 Question II.3 (document WT/ACC/SYC/14):  For each of the ca tegories of goods 
identified in response to Question II.3, please explain the following:  
- How does Seychelles require that the impo rts of the products adhere to relevant 
requirements of the WTO SPS Agreement? 
- How many licenses is an importer of each  product required to obtain in order to 
be able to import and sell, whether by retail or by wholesale, in the Seychelles 
market?  Please identify each one. 
- Please identify the ministries from wh ich importers must obtain the licenses? 
Answer: 
Seychelles considers the measures imposed on these products to be consistent with the Preamble 
of the Agreement on the Application of SPS Measur es, which reaffirms "that no Member should be 
prevented from adopting or enforcing measures ne cessary to protect human, animal or plant life 
or health, subject to the requirement that these measures are not applied in a manner which WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  would constitute a means of arbitrary or unjustifiable discrimination between Members where the 
same conditions prevail, or a disguised restriction on international trade". 
Only one import licence (import permit) is required per category of products per consignment 
imported into Seychelles. 
Seychelles can confirm that to engage in importation for commercial purposes there is a 
requirement to acquire a business activity licence from the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA).  
Seychelles can confirm that in cases of an importer, importing for commercial distribution, this 
person must have a business activity licence issued by the Seychelles Licensing Authority.  
An importer, importing product on the restricted list (see Annex 4 of WT/ACC/SYC/14), for both 
private and commercial use, needs to acquire an import permit (import licence).  
The Import and Export Division of the Ministry of  Finance, Trade and Investment is responsible for 
issuing import permit (licence).  The Division acts as a one-stop for processing applications and 
will liaise with other Ministries listed in Annex 4 of WT/ACC/SYC/14 where further approval is necessary (e.g. where an SPS certificate is required). 
Question 24 
Question II.4 (document WT/ACC/SYC/14):  Please cite the relevant articles of the 
Trades Tax Act of 1992 and please name the relevant regulations. 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that this is reflected in the Trades Tax Regulations, 1997, Regulation 109 
which states that, 
"(1) All permits issued by the Ministry responsible for Finance in connection with goods 
imported into Seychelles and subject to the control of the Trades Tax Imports Division 
shall be subject to such conditions as may be specified therein. 
(2) Any such permit may be revoked, altered, or suspended by the Minister responsible for 
Finance." 
Question 25 On document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  Based on th e Government's response to Question 49, 
please confirm if all businesse s, whether domestic or foreign, must obtain a business 
activity licence in order to do business in Seychelles and please clarify what business 
activities the licence covers (expor t, import, sell domestically, etc.). 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that businesses, whether domestic or foreign, must obtain a business 
activity licence in order to conduct the following businesses: 
- Import, Wholesale and Retail 
- Import and Wholesale 
- Import and Retail - Wholesale only 
- Retail only 
- Manufacture - Bottling - Liquor  
- Motor Vehicle Dealer 
- Storage and retail of petroleum product WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Question 26 
Are domestic producers required to obtain a licence for direct retail or wholesale trade 
of those goods listed in 1-15 on pages 80 an d 81?  Are domestic producers subject to 
restrictions for distribution of the goods contained in Annex 4? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that domestic producers are required to obtain a business activity licence 
issued by the Seychelles Licensing Authority for conducting direct retail or wholesale trade of all 
goods.  
Seychelles can confirm that goods listed in Annex 4 of WT/ACC/SYC/9 are prohibitions and 
restrictions on imported goods only as prescribed by the Trades Tax Regulations 1997, Regulation 109, where an importer will require an  import permit to import goods listed under the 
restricted list.  
It is to be noted that products such as firearms, pornographic materials, counterfeit currency, toxic 
chemicals etc. are also banned from producti on and distribution under national law. 
However, a domestic producer will require a business activity licence when conducting businesses 
listed in the answer to Question 25. 
Question 27 
Question 53 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  Please clarify how Article 2 paragraph (a), 
sub-paragraph (iii) of the Agreement on Impo rt Licensing responds to the question.  
What are the characteristics of Seychelles' import licensing regime that renders its 
licence to be non-automatic?  What are the underlying measures that Seychelles' 
licensing requirements administer and what  specific provisions of those measures 
establish that the licensing regime are non- automatic, as required by Article XI?   
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that import licensing requirements are non-automatic since having a 
validated SPS certificate does not automatically grant the receipt of an import licence due to Seychelles imposing certain restrictions on meat from various countries for reasons necessary to 
protect human, animal or plant life or health as per the provisions of the SPS Agreement. 
Question 28 Questions 56 to 57 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  Does the measure impose restrictions 
on the distribution of imported pesticides , and, if so, how do those differ from the 
restrictions, if any, on the distribution  of domestically produced pesticides? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the measures contained in the Pesticide Control Act should not lead to 
discrimination according to origin.  It must be noted that the list of approved pesticides as it 
stands now contain only imported pesticides as Seychelles currently does not produce any pesticide.  Section 9 of the Act makes provision for importers to submit new substances for 
registration and addition to the list, and the only reference to origin is 9(2)(e), which requests 
information on any restrictions that may be in force in the country of origin.  Otherwise pesticides are looked at as products being marketed by appr oved distributors rather than products from a 
particular region. 
Question 29 
Question 60 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  We understand based on the answer to 
Question 59 that a business activity licence is valid for five years.  Please clarify WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  however whether importers have to apply for an import licence for each shipment or if 
there is a longer validity period.  
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that importers have to apply for an import licence (import permit) for each 
shipment of restricted goods contained in Annex 4 (WT/ACC/SYC/9). 
Seychelles can confirm that the business activity licence issued by SLA has the purpose of 
regulating licensable activities with the aim of setting minimum standards for conducting such 
activities.  For example, for public safety an d hygiene; national security; and environmental 
protection.  The SLA issues licenses for specific activities related to trade and not for the importations or exportation of specific goods.  The business activity licence and the import licence (permit) serve different purposes. 
As recognised in the preamble of the Agreemen t on Import Licensing Procedures, the import 
licence requirement applied by Seychelles is employed in such a manner as to administer measures such as those adopted pursuant to the relevant provisions of the GATT 1994, and in this 
particular case Articles XX and XXI of the GATT 1994. 
Question 30 Question 62 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  We request an explan ation from Seychelles 
on the issue of nationality cont rols for all types of licenses. 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that there is no nationality control on acquisition of wholesale and retail 
licenses; foreigners and residents are treated the same. 
Question 31 
Question 64 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  After receiving a valid complaint, does 
Seychelles undertake an investigation prior to taking action against the licensee?  Is the 
licensee provided an opportunity to de fend itself against the complaint? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the licensee is called before the Licensing Board to defend itself 
against the complaint before any action is taken against its licence or itself. 
Question 32 In relation to Question 67 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12, please provide examples of 
private sector members of the National  Consumer Protection Forum (NATCOF). 
Answer: 
NATCOF is a non-governmental entity, independent of government.  To be elected on that Board, 
consideration is not given as to whether a person is from the private or public sector.  At the 
Annual General Meeting (AGM), they put their names up for election on an individual basis but not 
representing the private or public sector. 
The members present at the AGM vote for those candidates and those with the highest number of 
votes are elected on the Executive Committee. 
Question 33 How are importers represented in the Appe als process described in Question 68 of 
document WT/ACC/SYC/12? WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 14 - 
 
  Answer: 
Please refer to answer to Question 32. 
To be elected on that Board, consideration is not given as to whether a person is from the private 
or public sector.  An importer can be represented in the Appeals process if they are elected by 
NATCOF to be represented on the Appeals Board. 
Question 34 Please provide a copy of the legislation th at specifies "that prior to a person being 
appointed on the Appeals Board, he or she has to declare their interests through the 
Public Ethics Commission", as described in your response to Question 69 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12. 
Answer: 
Seychelles is pleased to submit the Public Officers' Ethics Act 2008, as requested.  Question 35 Question 70 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  Are importers allowed to appeal the Appeals 
Board's decision and if so, to what judicial court?  If not, why not? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that an importer can appeal the Appeals Board's decision in the Supreme 
Court as per his/her constitutional rights. 
Question 36 Question 71 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  Must the importer request a written 
explanation in order to receive such explanatio n?  If so, what is the process? How must 
the importer make such a request?  
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA) is required to provide the 
importer with an explanation, in writing, on the reasons for denying the application of business 
activity licence.  
The process for application for business activity licence is as follows: 
1. Application for licenses shall be dealt with by the SLA, within 14 days after receipt 
of the application (Section 8(c) of Licenses Act 2010). 
2. Licenses shall be issued on the basis of clearly defined and transparent criteria, as 
stated in Section 8(a) of Licenses Act 2010 (Section 8(d) of Licenses Act 2010). 
3. An application shall only be disallowed for sufficient reason and the applicant shall 
be entitled to appeal against decision (Section 8(e) of Licenses Act 2010). 
4. The SLA may grant a licence or renew a licence and also attach or vary conditions 
of a licence (Section 9(1)(a) and (b) of Licenses Act 2010). 
5. A person aggrieved by any decision of the SLA may submit a notice of appeal in 
writing to the Appeals Board (Section 17 of Licenses Act 2010). 
6. The Appeal Board may, where it entertai ns a notice of appeal, decide the appeal 
by: WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  (a) Confirming the decision of the SLA; 
(b) Varying the decision; (c) Quashing the decision; (d) Ordering the SLA to reconsider its decision as directed by the Appeals 
Board (Section 19 of Licenses Act 2010). 
Question 37 Question 75 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  Please list the product categories for which 
both an import licence and a di stribution licence is required? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the list of products requiring an import licence (import permit) from 
relevant Ministries and departments or Government Agencies is listed in Annex 4 in WT/ACC/SYC/9 
The Import and Export Division of the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Investment acts as a 
one-stop shop for processing these applications and is a facilitator in the whole process of obtaining the import licence (permit). 
All businesses conducting wholesale or retail require a business activity licence from the SLA. 
Therefore, if a business is wholesaling/retailing products imported and listed under Annex 4 in 
WT/ACC/SYC/9 then it will have to acquire an import licence (import permit) per shipment of the 
products and also a business activity lic ence which is valid for five years. 
- Customs valuation Question 38 Question 78 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12:  If  possible, please specify an approximate 
time-frame for implementing the new draft legislation. 
Answer: 
As per the responses to the Customs Valuation Questionnaire (WT/ACC/SYC/15), the regulations 
dealing with customs valuation will come into effect by July 2013.  Seychelles is currently in the 
process of building capacity in this area, where technical assistance is being received for training of customs officers.  
Question 39 
Seychelles' Factual Summary of Points Rais ed (JOB/ACC/29) states that Seychelles was 
fully committed to implement the WTO Custom s Valuation Agreement prior to the date 
of accession.  The report also states th at the new Customs Management Act was 
expected to come into force on 1 August 201 2.  Seychelles provided a copy of Customs 
Management Act for our review; however, th is Customs Management Act of 2011 simply 
states that the origin and valuation of good s for customs purposes shall be prescribed 
by regulations.  Seychelles' Legislative Acti on Plan, dated 7 May 2012, also refers to the 
supplementary regulations on customs valuation.   
- Could Seychelles please provide an update  with respect to its implementation of 
these regulations? 
- When does the Government of Seychelles plan to implement the new regulations 
to fully incorporate the WTO Valuation Agreement? 
- When will Seychelles provide its respon ses to the Questionnaire on Customs 
Valuation based on the provisions of it s new draft legislation?  We understand 
Seychelles' response to this inquiry has b een that it will happen in "due course", 
however, a more definite time -frame would be beneficial.  WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 16 - 
 
  Answer: 
- Seychelles is in the process of finalising the drafting of its Customs Valuation Regulation 
including the interpretative notes, on the basis of the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement.  Seychelles will be submitting the draft legislation to WTO Members for their comments. 
- It is envisaged that the new Regulations will be implemented in July 2013. 
- Seychelles wants to confirm that it will provide the completed responses on the 
Customs Valuation Questionnaire on 18 March 2013.  
Question 40 
On document WT/ACC/SYC/15, we have a few questions seeking clarification regarding 
Seychelles' statement that its customs valuation method is the Brussels Definition of 
Value (BDV).   
Seychelles states:  Where upon examination by  an officer of goods liable to tax, it 
appears to that officer that the goods are not valued according to their true value at the 
time and place of importation, the Comptro ller may require the importer to declare on 
oath before him the true valuation according to the best of the belief of such importer 
and to adduce any documentary evidence  he may possess in support thereof. 
- The relevant point of time in the BDV is  "when offered for sale for home use" as 
opposed to "at the time and place of  importation".  Please explain how 
Seychelles' approach to valuatio n is consistent with the BDV.  
- In addition, the Customs Management Act (CMA) states that the time of 
acceptance of a customs declaration is when  the ship enters the territorial waters 
of Seychelles, while also stating that the time of acceptance of the declaration 
determines the rates of duty.  How do these two elements work together?  
Answer: 
- The approach used by Seychelles is the transaction value.  However, if Customs is not in 
agreement with the value provided by the importer at the time of importation and in the absence of supporting documents, then according to the BDV the value is deduced from 
what should be fetched on the domest ic market destined for home use.  
- The time of importation is determined by the time the ship enters the territorial waters and 
the rate of duty applicable to a particular import is at the time the declaration is accepted by Customs.  The goods in question must have been imported before the rate of duty can 
be determined. 
Question 41 In reference to Seychelles' statement:  "in ca se of dispute, the goods shall be examined 
by two competent persons one of whom shall be appointed by the Comptroller, and the 
other by the importer".  Are the good s held pending the dispute process? 
Answer: 
The goods may be held pending dispute or they may be released upon payment of a deposit while 
awaiting the finalisation of the outcome of the dispute. 
Question 42 In relation to Seychelles' statement that in case of dispute two competent persons "shall 
then declare on oath before the Comptroller wh at is the true value of such articles".  
What is the value that the "competent pers ons" are declaring at that time and what 
parameters or instructions are they given in order to value the goods. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 17 - 
 
  Answer: 
The competent person should declare the correct value paid for the product.  Other than having to 
submit supporting evidence to substantiate th e value being declared, the competent persons are 
not given any parameters or instructions to value the goods. 
Question 43 
In relation to Seychelles' statement that:  "If any importer shall fail within 3 days from his being required so to do make an 
appointment as herein before provided, or if no declaration shall be made by the 
persons appointed as aforesaid, or by the umpire selected by them, within 
three days from their appointment or sele ction, as the case may be, then, in any 
case, the declaration of the person appo inted as aforesaid by the Comptroller 
shall be final." 
What is the avenue of appeal after a "final" declaration by the Comptroller? 
Answer: 
The affected person may take the matter to court. Question 44 We also understand from JOB/ACC/29 (parag raph 12) that all regulations under the 
Trades Tax Act would remain effective un til they are repealed and replaced by 
regulations under the Customs Management Act.  Could Seychelles update about the 
plans regarding those regulations and mirror th at information in the Legislative Action 
Plan? 
Answer: 
Seychelles has been working closely with the office of the Attorney General's Chamber to produce 
new regulations under the Customs Management Act.  This process is ongoing and draft legislation 
will be circulated to WTO Members in April 2013. 
Question 45 We note that customs valuation legislation was passed by the National Assembly.  Could 
Seychelles inform about the date of enactment/entry into force?  
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the Customs Management Act has come into effect as of the 
2 July 2012 and will be the parent legislation for the customs valuation.  As per the responses to 
the customs valuation questionnaire (WT/ACC/SYC/15), the regulations dealing with customs 
valuation will come into effect by July 2013.  Seychelles is currently in the process of building capacity in this area, where technical assistance is being received for training of customs officers. 
- Anti-dumping, countervailing duties, safeguard regimes 
Question 46 We take note of Seychelles' response to Question 93 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12 and 
its commitment that upon the date of accession, Seychelles will not impose any 
anti-dumping, countervailing duties, and safegu ard measures until legislation consistent 
with the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, the Agreement on 
Interpretation of Article VI of the GATT 1994, and the Agreement on Safeguards is 
enacted. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 18 - 
 
  Answer: 
We thank you and take note of your reply.  
B. EXPORT REGULATIONS - Export restrictions 
Question 47 
Paragraph 121 of document JOB/ACC/29:  A ll goods destined for exportation were 
subject to an export permit requirement.  We  note Seychelles' statement that the export 
permit procedures were being reviewed an d we support the objective to make them 
more effective and less burdensome.  
- Could Seychelles provide a deta iled update of this review? 
- What is the purpose of the export permit requirement?  
- Is the permit granted automatically upon request? 
Answer: 
- Seychelles can confirm that the review is currently ongoing and that a new policy is 
expected to be in place before the end of 2013 and that it will inform accordingly upon 
completion.  
- The purpose of the export permit is to ensu re that goods being exported meet the various 
requirements, example SPS measures.  Additionally, it aims to ensure that illegal 
exportation of prohibited goods and restricted items are controlled and regulated. F u r t h e r m o r e ,  i t  i s  a  w a y  t o  e n s u r e  t h a t  e x p o r t  d a t a  i s  c a p t u r e d .   H o w e v e r ,  w i t h  t h e  introduction of the updated ASYCUDA system and the online permit system, the review will 
aim to reduce the number of goods that necessitate and export permit. 
- The permit in some circumstances is granted automatically, however, for some goods that 
require accompanying documents (for example, SPS certificates) these are not granted 
until the relevant documents are sourced. 
Question 48 Paragraph 122 of document JOB/ACC/29:  Do  we understand correctly that a health 
certificate has to be requested before an export permit?  Since the health certificate is 
issued per consignment, does this mean that  the export permit is also issued for each 
consignment?  Is the latter not burdensome for exporters? 
Is a phytosanitary certificate or health certif icate necessary for domestic sales?  How is 
the fee for those certificates fo r commercial export determined? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the current legislatio n requires that an export permit be given per 
consignment of exports.  We take note of the comments about this being a burdensome procedure 
but would like to reiterate that the export permit legislation is currently under review.  
Seychelles can confirm that phytosanitary or health certificates are not required for domestic 
sales.  However, the domestic manufacturers are subject to spot checks by the relevant authorities 
to ensure that they meet the relevant standards. 
Question 49  
We look forward to receiving Seychelles' revised export perm it procedures as indicated 
in response to Question 94 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 19 - 
 
  Answer: 
Seychelles takes note of this statement and would like to confirm that this is still an ongoing 
process and that we shall forward the draft procedures for comments by October 2013. 
C. INTERNAL POLICIES AFFECTING TRADE IN GOODS 
- Industrial policy, including subsidies 
Question 50 In response to several questions relating to subsidies (Questions 98 to 102), Seychelles 
states that it expects to repeal certain legi slation and replace its Goods and Services Tax 
Act with a VAT regime?  We understand that this change has been delayed.  We would 
welcome an indication of the time-frame in which it is expected to occur. 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the VAT regime has been fully operational as of 1 January 2013. Question 51 On paragraph 129 of document JOB/ACC/29:   Seychelles states that the Tourism 
(Incentives) Act (TIA) 2003 and the Agriculture and Fisheries Incentives Act (AFIA) 
2005 would be repealed on 30 June 2012. 
- Could Seychelles confirm that the TIA and AFIA have been repealed as of the end 
of June 2012? 
- Could Seychelles explain by what measure the repeal of these laws was effected? 
- With regard to any companies already rece iving benefits prior to the repeal, are 
the benefits allowed to continue and for how long? 
- We request a commitment from Seychelle s that any residual benefits from 
programmes with export or local-conten t requirements under the TIA and AFIA 
would be eliminated upon accession. 
Answer: 
- The date of 30 June 2012 was provided given that the VAT Act was envisaged to be 
enacted on that date.  With the enactment of the VAT Act on the 1 January 2013, some 
component of the TIA and AFIA are now obsolete.  
- Through the implementation of the VAT Act and its subsequent regulations and 
amendments to laws regulating business tax and income tax, components of this nature under the TIA and AFIA will be made obsolete. 
- The benefits that are covered under the VAT  Regulations on exemptions, amendments to 
the Business Tax Act and the Income Tax Act will continue to provide some benefits that were covered under the TIA and AFIA.  The amendments to the Business Tax Act and 
Income Tax Act are attached.  However, the VAT Regulation on exemptions is at the AG's 
Office and will be forwarded to the Members during the week of 18 March 2013. 
- Seychelles is seeking clarification on the term "with export or local-content requirements", 
before it makes any statement on the matter. 
- Technical barriers to trade, standards and certification Question 52 In relation to Seychelles' response to Question 128, we look forward to receiving the 
draft of the new Seychelles Business Stan dards Act (SBS) and accompanying draft 
regulations. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 20 - 
 
  Answer: 
A copy of the Draft Seychelles Bureau of Standards Bill has been circulated to the Working Party. 
Question 53 In relation to your response to Question  110, what was the outcome of Seychelles' 
review process under the SBS?  Have there been any changes to your laws or 
regulations based on this review? 
Answer: 
A copy of the Draft Seychelles Bureau of Standards Bill has been circulated to the Working Party. 
Question 54 In relation to Section 5(d) of the TBT Checklist, Seychelles states the following: 
Commitments 
(by the time of accession) WTO Reference Status (as of 30 April 2010) 
(d) the consideration of 
appropriate international 
standards, guides and 
recommendations as a basis for technical regulations and conformity assessment procedures; (d) Article 2.4, 
3.1, 5.4, 7.1 Standards prescribed by CODEX, ISO and IEC 
are taken into consideration in the 
consideration of appropriate international 
standards, guides and recommendations as a basis for technical regulations and conformity assessment procedures.  
Are CODEX, ISO and IEC the only internatio nal standards which Seychelles takes into 
consideration? 
Answer: 
The Seychelles Bureau of Standards (SBS) has a po licy to adopt international standards as a basis 
for the development of national standards and/or technical regulations.  In the event that no 
international standards exist for a particular prod uct, process or service, a national standard 
developed by another national standard setting body will be considered. 
The "international standards, guide and recommendat ions" noted by the SBS in this context refers 
to "standard that is adopted by an international standardizing/standards organization and made 
available to the public" as defined in ISO/IEC Guide 2:2004 - Standardization and related activities - General vocabulary) and it include standards adopted by international standardizing/standards 
organisation, such as: the International Organization for Standardization (ISO); the International 
Electro-technical Commission (IEC); the International Telecommunication Union (ITU); the Codex (Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Program); the Office International des Epizooties (OIE); the International Plants Protection Convent (IPPC); the International Organization for Legal Metrology 
(OIML); the International Bureau for Weights and Measures (BIPM); the United Nations (UN/ECE); 
etc., as well as those standards adopted by: American National Standards Institute(ANSI); American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM); National Institute for Standards and 
Technology (NIST); the Association for the Ad vancement of Medical Instrumentation; the 
European Committee for Standardization (CEN); etc. 
The SBS has adopted the Conformity Assessment procedures, guides and standards that have 
been adopted by the ISO Committee on Conformi ty Assessment (ISO CASCO) as our national 
standards and therefore the bureau recognizes co nformity assessment procedures, test results or 
certificates issued by conformity assessment service providers that has been accredited in accordance to those international standards adopted by ISO CASCO. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 21 - 
 
  Question 55 
The Checklist on TBT issues circulated in February (WT/ACC/SYC/11/Rev.1) often 
refers to "current legislation".  Could Seyc helles be more precise and include reference 
to the relevant pieces of legislation?  Ha ve those pieces of legislation been made 
available to Members and if not, could Se ychelles circulate these to Members?  
Answer: 
The "current legislation" refers to the current SBS Act, which will be repealed by the submitted 
draft SBS Bill once the vetting process has finalised and it is enacted.  The current SBS Act has 
been submitted to the Working Party. 
- Sanitary and phytosanitary measures Question 56 
Paragraph 143 of document JOB/ACC/29 states that upon enactment of the Animal and 
Plant Biosecurity Bill, "three new regulation s would be drafted to complement the new 
Bill - the Animal Biosecurity Regulations, the Plant Biosecurity Regulations, and the 
Invasive Alien Species Biosecu rity Regulations".  Please provide drafts of these 
regulations for review when they are available.   
Answer: 
Seychelles takes notes of this statement and will  do the necessary when the draft regulations are 
ready for circulation. 
Question 57 The response to Question 113 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12 requires elaboration.  
Please indicate when Seychelles plans to ma ke the referenced legislation, guidelines, 
and standards available. 
Answer: 
The Animal Bio-security Regulations and the Plant Biosecurity Regulations are being finalized and 
should be available during the second quarter of  2013.  The Invasive Alien Species Bio-security 
Regulations is pending work done on the review of  existing policies and laws related to protected 
areas.  This work is being supported by the Government of Seychelles, UNDP and the Global 
Environment Facility (GEF). 
Seychelles has established the National SPS Committee as a subcommittee of the National 
Biosecurity Committee.  The Seychelles Agricultural Agency is the Secretariat to these 
Committees. 
Seychelles can confirm that the Secretariat of  the National SPS Committee will serve as the 
National SPS Enquiry Point. 
Seychelles can also confirm that the Ministry re sponsible for Natural Resources will serve as the 
National Notification Authority. 
Question 58 
The response to Question 114 of document WT/ACC/SYC/12 requires elaboration: 
Question 
"In its response to Question 136 and many  others in this section, Seychelles has 
acknowledged that its current system of  regulation for SPS measures is not WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 22 - 
 
  WTO-consistent, and that most domestic  legislation that implements the SPS 
regime is under review." 
 How long does Seychelles believe that its legislative review and amendment will 
take to implement WTO provisions on the application of SPS regulations to trade? 
Answer: 
Seychelles expects that this exercise will be completed before the date of 
 accession. 
Please specify which SPS measures require re view to be WTO-consistent.  In addition, 
please indicate, for each measure, the stage that the measure is at in the legislative 
review process and when Seychelles expe cts it to be fully consistent with 
WTO obligations. 
Answer: 
Matters related to the Animal and Plant Biosecurity Bill will be enacted by May 2013.  
The Animal and Plant Biosecurity Bill has been circulated to WTO Members for comments.  
The statutory instruments linked to the Bill includ ing the Animal Biosecurity Regulations, the Plant 
Biosecurity Regulations and others will be available.  Operational manuals and work instructions for the officers in the inspection service of the SAA have been completed.  
With regard to CODEX and food safety, Seychelles can confirm that the Food Act is currently under 
review with assistance from the WHO.  The comp lete review, including, stocktaking, legislative 
review and enactment is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2013. 
Question 59 
The Animal and Plant Biosecurity Bill calls fo r the issuance of standards, records, and 
regulations using several different forms of pu blication.  In paragraph 9(1), for example, 
the bill grants authority for the Minister to issue notices about the existence of pests or 
diseases.  Also, paragraph 10(1) requires ce rtain information to be published in the 
Gazette.  Finally, paragraphs 47 and 48 re quire records to be maintained in the 
biosecurity register.  Please explain how th e purposes of these three publications differ 
and indicate how the public may access each publication for review.  
Answer: 
With reference to regulated pest and diseases, qu arantine pests and diseases and notifiable pest 
and diseases (Sections 7, 8 and 9 inclusive), these lists are made in two separate statutory 
instruments (Ministerial Orders) and are to be made immediately following the Enactment of the 
"Animal and Plant Biosecurity Bill into Law (Act)".  It could come into force concurrently with the commencement of the Act.  Thus, the draft Statutory Instrument (S.I.s) are:  (i) Animal and Plant 
Biosecurity (Animal) (Declaration of Notifiable Diseases) Order, 2012; and (ii) Animal and Plant 
Biosecurity (Regulated) (Quarantine) Plant Pests Or der, 2012.  The S.I.s will be gazetted/published 
in the National (official) Gazette for them to take effect. 
With reference to section 10(1), this is a Ministerial Order that designates a statutory or 
governmental body, authority or agency to be the ag ency responsible for biosecurity.  In this case 
it will be the Seychelles Agricultural Agency.  The draft S.I. for this Order takes the form:  Animal and Plant Biosecurity (Designation of Agency Resp onsible for Biosecurity) Order, 2012.  This order 
will be gazetted for it to take effect. 
The biosecurity register, as provided for in Sections 48 and 49, is to keep documented records of 
most regulatory and administrative activities undertaken by the Biosecurity Authority, especially 
those listed in Section 48(2).  It may take the form of one or more databases and maybe manual 
(book) registers and will serve the purposes of in formation exchange, official reporting, evidence 
collection (for non-compliance cases), routine administrative reporting, amongst other records.  WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 23 - 
 
  The register is also intended fulfil the accountabi lity and transparency obligations of the service.  
Some content of the register maybe available on a website and will be available for the purposes of the Animal and Plant Biosecurity Act only and ordinarily subject to confidentiality and privacy provisions.   
The former two publications are Statutory Instruments thus have to be officially gazetted in the 
National Gazette for them to take legal effect.  They are public documents and can be accessed or will be available from th e Attorney General's Office or online  services such as www.seylii.org.  
The S.I.s will also be deposited with the IPPC Se cretariat, OIE Secretariat and Codex Alimentarius 
Commission as part of Seychelles reporting obligations to these international standard setting organisations.  Seychelles will also submit them to the WTO Secretariat as part of its accession negotiation requirements. 
The biosecurity register is intended serve as a safe data storage and easily retrievable system that 
keep records of data/information and avail this data/information for the administration of this Act and the performance of the functions of the agency  responsible for biosecurity under this Act.  
The status of the biosecurity register is elaborated in section 49 and as explained above, some of 
its content maybe available publicly through the Biosecurity Authority's website or on request. 
Question 60 
Paragraph 75 requires applicants for biose curity import permits to use the forms 
contained in Schedule 1.  These forms are cu rrently not available in Schedule 1, Parts A 
and B.  Please provide these forms.  
Answer: 
Seychelles submitted a copy of the draft Animal and Plan Biosecurity (Plant) Regulations (2012), 
containing these forms.  
Question 61 
The Checklist on SPS Issues (WT/ACC/SYC/ 11/Rev.1) is a good basis to check the 
ongoing work done in the framework of WT O accession.  We would welcome a regular 
update of this Checklist.  We would al so welcome additional information regarding 
legislative reforms in the SPS area, to be reflected in the Legislative Action Plan.  
We note Seychelles' request for support to its trade cooperation partners.  We stand 
ready to examine Seychelles' specific needs. 
Answer: 
Seychelles takes note of this statement and is also pleased to submit the updated SPS Checklist to 
the Working Party. 
Question 62 
Regarding the Animal and Plant Biosecurity  Bill, 2011 circulated to Members in 
May 2012 (and in particular Articles V and VI):   the Bill describes in particular the legal 
basis governing all aspects of animal and pl ant health, except fo r animal welfare and 
veterinary drugs.  However, this Bill does not cover matters related to human health and 
food safety, except for those falling within  the scope of the IPPC or the OIE (e.g. 
zoonosis).  The Factual Summary (paragraph 143) refers to future enactment; could Seychelles inform about the plans in that respect? 
Answer: 
Seychelles can confirm that the Food Act is current ly under review with assistance from the WHO.  
The complete review, including, stocktaking, legislative review and enactment is expected to be 
completed by the third quarter of 2013.  Before it  is enacted, it will be submitted to Members for 
their comments. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  V. TRADE-RELATED INTELLE CTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS 
- GENERAL Question 63 Paragraphs 190 and 193 of document JOB/A CC/29 and page 4, number 1 of document 
WT/ACC/SYC/16:  The Government of Seychelles notes that the term of copyright 
protection is currently 25 years from first publication, but that the new draft is in 
compliance with Berne obligations.  Is the new draft Copyright Law also in compliance 
with the TRIPS obligations, i.e., Articles 12 and 14 (5)?  
Answer: 
Yes, the draft copyright law is also in compliance with the TRIPS obligations.  Seychelles submitted 
a copy of the draft law to the Working Party.  
Question 64 
We thank Seychelles for the circulation of th e document related to implementation of 
the TRIPS Agreement (WT/ACC/SYC/18 of 7 Ma y 2012).  We would appreciate that the 
document and the Legislative Action Plan be made more precise and provide details 
about the legislative reforms, as the Factual Summary (JOB/ACC/29) reflects the fact that Seychelles plans to amend and replace ex isting Acts to ensure compliance with the 
TRIPS Agreement (paragraph 192).  Could Se ychelles provide an update on the work 
done in coordination with WIPO? 
Answer: 
Seychelles is in the process of preparing an upda ted Legislative Action Plan, which clearly indicates 
the date of adoption/enactment, and the date of implementation, including for Seychelles' 
Intellectual Property legislation.  This updated Le gislative Action Plan will be submitted to the 
Working Party well in advance of the next meeting.   
Seychelles signed an MOU with WIPO in November 2010 to carry out these institutional and 
legislative reforms in the area of Intellectual Prop erty to bring the aforementioned into conformity 
with WTO requirements.  To date an IP expert contracted by WIPO has assisted the Government of 
Seychelles in the drafting a National Intellectu al Property Rights Policy which will be made 
available to Working Party Members once it has undergone the normal vetting procedures by all the relevant stakeholders at national level.  
Furthermore, the consultant has also worked on a draft piece of legislation for the establishment of 
centralised Intellectual Property Office.  He has also worked on a draft Industrial Property Act 
which would in effect repeal the Trademarks Decree and the Patents Act.  This piece of legislation 
will cover the protection and use of patents, trademarks, geographical indications, utility models, 
layout designs and integrated circuits.  All the afor ementioned pieces of draft legislation will also 
be submitted to Working Party Members once they have undergone all the vetting procedures at the national level. 
- Industrial property protection 
Question 65 JOB/ACC/29, pages 39-40, paragraph 183; WT/ACC/SYC/12, Question 133, 
WT/ACC/SYC/17, page 2, and WT/ACC/SYC/16,  page 2, paragraph 4A, and page 4, 
number 1:  In document JOB/ACC/29, pages 39-40, paragraph 183, the Government of 
Seychelles (GOS) said it would adopt a TRIP S-compliant draft Copyright Law by the end 
of 2012.  In WT/ACC/SYC/17, page 2, th e Government of Seychelles notes the 
TRIPS-compliant Copyright Bill has been drafte d, with the assistance of WIPO, and is in 
the "vetting stage", prior to submission to  the National Assembly.  In WT/ACC/SYC/16, 
page 4, Question 1, notes that the revised copyright legislation has been drafted and will WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  be circulated.  Please provide a copy of th e draft, TRIPS-compliant  Seychelles copyright 
legislation.   
Answer: 
Refer to answer to Question 63. 
Question 66 
Paragraph 192 of document JOB/ACC/29:  The Government of Seychelles mentioned 
that the current draft Copyright Law is being reviewed by the Attorney General's Office.  
What is the next step in the legislative process?   
Answer: 
After being reviewed by the Attorney General's Office, the draft law will be gazetted as a bill and 
then submitted before Parliament to be debated upon and, subsequent to Parliament's approval, it 
will be sent to the President for assent, and then it will be gazetted as an Act and thus becoming 
law. 
However, before the law is submitted to Parliament, a copy shall be forwarded to Members for 
their comments. 
- Responsible agencies for policy formulation and implementation 
Question 67 
Paragraphs 183 and 186 of document JOB/ ACC/29:  The Government of Seychelles 
stated that it would be "strengthening  the institutional framework through the 
establishment of a centralized Intellectual Pr operty Office".  Please describe how a 
centralized IP Office will affect the admi nistration and enforcement of a national 
copyright system in Seychelles.  What is the status of the centralized IP Office at the 
moment?   
Answer: 
Currently, the administration of IP is fragmented in Seychelles.  The three laws are administered 
by two different Ministries; patents and trademarks by the Registrar General (Legal Affairs) and copyright under Department of Culture.   
In addition to the Registrar General's Office and the Ministry of Culture, there are also several 
Intellectual Property service providers whose role is currently not very visible and therefore not 
appreciated or fully optimized such as the Judi ciary, Police, Customs, the Small Enterprise 
Promotion Agency (SEnPA) and the Arts Council. 
Within the Department of Culture, copyright an d related rights are handled by the National 
Heritage Research Section of the Culture Division.  The Copyright Office is responsible for the administration of the copyright law including the registration of works.  The Desk Officer 
responsible for copyright matters also handles other cultural matters and is also seconded to SACS 
as its Director.  There is a shortage of staff to carry out the work on copyright effectively and efficiently. 
Similarly, in the Registrar General's Office resources both human and technical resources are 
shared between the registration of properties, leas es, patents and trademarks.  This is first of all 
not conducive to the documentation of intellectual  property rights and enforcement of the current 
Patent Act and Trademarks Decree.   
Enforcement capacity is weak in the current in stitutions implementing intellectual property 
because over the years although some individuals have been trained to do so, this task has been continuously neglected because the human resources has to be shared around to perform other 
unrelated tasks.   WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  In general, capacity-building in intellectual property management has been lacking over the years 
because Ministries and Departments have not been able to attract the suitably qualified people to work in the area, therefore reforms have been limited. 
Given the current shortcomings in IP development and enforcement, the proposed solution is the 
creation of an Intellectual Property Office.  This office will be responsible for effective intellectual 
property management and development in the country.  Given that it will be a specialized agency; resources will be shared only for intellectual property rather than other non-related work.  
Given the size of Seychelles, this will allow for the consolidation and coordination of resources 
towards intellectual property development and en forcement.  There would be more resources to 
reform the current legal framework as the laws wo uld be the tools used by the institution to run 
effectively.  
- Participation in international in tellectual property agreements 
Question 68 Paragraph 187 of document JOB/ACC/29:  The Government of Seychelles notes it will 
accede to the Berne Convention.  When will such accession occur? 
Answer: 
The Government of Seychelles is aiming to accede to the Berne Convention as soon as it accedes 
to the WTO. 
- Application of national MFN treatment to foreign nationals Question 69 Paragraphs 188 and 194 of document JOB/A CC/29:  The Government of Seychelles 
stated that it extends national treatment to all foreign nationals and that any 
IPR legislation will comply with the most -favoured-nation and national treatment 
principles provided in Articles 3 and 4 of th e TRIPS Agreement.  Please provide a copy of 
the relevant provisions of the law that provide national treatment. 
Answer: 
Refer to answer to Question 63. 
- SUBSTANTIVE STANDARDS OF PROTECTION, INCLUDING PROCEDURES FOR THE 
ACQUISITION AND MAINTENANCE OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS 
- Copyrights and related rights Question 70 
Page 7 of document WT/ACC/SYC/18:  Are computer programs, whether in source or 
object code, protected as literary works under the revised version of the Copyright Act?  
Are compilations of data, whether in machine re adable or other form, which by reason of 
selection and/or management of their cont ents constitute intellectual creations, 
protected under the re vised Copyright Act? 
Answer: 
Yes, computer programs, whether in source or object code, are protected under the proposed 
copyright bill.  Under the proposed bill, protection is also given to compilation of data, whether in machine readable or other forms, which by reason of selection or/and management of their contents constitute intellectual creation. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Question 71 
Paragraph 191 of document JOB/ACC/29:  Acco rding to the Government of Seychelles, 
the existing Copyright Law requires regi stration, a formality prohibited by the 
Berne Convention.  Has the new draft copyrigh t law eliminated formality requirements?   
Answer: 
Yes, the new copyright law will eliminate formality requirements. 
Question 72 
We note that a new draft Copyright bill is being prepared (paragraph 192 of document 
JOB/ACC/29).  Could Seychelles shar e that draft with Members?  
Answer: 
Refer to answer to Question 63. 
- Geographical indications, including appellations of origin 
Question 73 Paragraph 197 of document JOB/ACC/29:  th e representative of Seychelles said that 
there was currently no protection provided for geographical indications; and noted, 
however, that relevant provis ions were currently being prepared, as part of the IPDP, 
with the assistance of WIPO.  Can the re presentative of Seychelles clarify whether 
protection of geographical indications th rough a trademark system – as regional 
certification marks and collective marks – has been considered in addition to a 
sui generis system?  Can Government of Seychelles make text under consideration 
available? 
Answer: 
The proposed industrial properties bill is in its initial phase of being vetted.  A copy will be made 
available to the Working Party once it reaches a more advanced stage of its vetting process. 
- Patents 
Question 74 How many patents have been issued under the Patent Act 1901?  
Answer: 
For the period from 2000 to 2013, 123 patents have been issued under the Patent Act 1901. 
Question 75 Can the Government of Seychelles please pr ovide the draft of the new patent act? 
Answer: 
Issues relating to patents rights have been incorporated in the proposed industrial properties bill.  
As stated in Question 73, the proposed industrial properties bill is in its initial phase of being 
vetted.  A copy will be made available to the Wo rking Party once it reaches a more advanced stage 
of its vetting process. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  - Plant variety protection 
Question 76 When is the estimated date of completion of  the new patent legislation and plant variety 
protection (pvp) legislation?  
Answer: 
It is estimated that the new legislation dealing with  patent rights will be completed and enacted by 
the end of 2013.  However, work on the plant vari ety protection legislation is still in the early 
stages and will we expect a first draft to be ready for circulation early in 2013. 
Question 77 Is Seychelles considering adopting a new PVP law that is in conformity with the 
1991 Act of the International Convention for th e Protection of New Varieties of Plants 
(UPOV), and becoming a UPOV member? 
Answer: 
Yes, Seychelles is considering adopting a new PVP law that is in conformity with the 1991 Act of 
the International Convention for the Protection of  New Varieties of Plants (UPOV), and becoming a 
member of the UPOV. 
- ENFORCEMENT 
Question 78 
Paragraph 205 of document JOB/AC/29:  Th e Government of Seychelles notes that 
infringement of intellectual pr operty rights could result in compensation for damages.  
Does this compensation include pre-esta blished damages for IPR infringement as 
suggested by Article 45(2) of the TRIPS?  If not, is Seychelles planning to amend its civil 
code to include the possibility of pre-established damages? 
Answer: 
Upon being signatory to the TRIPS Agreement, Seychelles will have to ensure that its legislation is 
in accordance with the Agreement.  Thus, it will have to amend its Civil Code to include the possibility of pre-established damages. 
- Criminal Procedures 
Question 79 Paragraph 210 of document JOB/ACC/29:  The Government of Seychelles discusses 
criminal procedures and states that the Copyright Act includes sections on offences and 
penalties and the penal code contains provisio ns to prosecute the import of counterfeit 
and/or pirated goods into Seychelles.  Ar ticle 61 of the TRIPS Agreement requires 
criminal procedures for at least wilful trad emark counterfeiting or copyright piracy.  
Do Seychelles' laws include criminal pr ocedures for not just importing but also 
distributing, selling, and trafficking in both counterfeit and pirated goods?  If not, is 
Seychelles planning to amend their laws to include such criminal procedures? WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Answer: 
Seychelles is in the process of amending its legislation to ensure that they meet international best 
practice.  Therefore, in this respect Seychelles will ensure that the amendments that it makes to its laws will cover such issues. 
Question 80 
Paragraph 210 of document JOB/ACC/29:  The Government of Seychelles stated 
"The representative of Seychelles said that, under the current regime, Sections 21 and 
22 of the Copyright Act covered copyright o ffences and penalties.  These provisions 
foresaw a fine of SR1,000 for each infringing  copy of a copyrighted work and a one-year 
imprisonment".  Do the penalties for copy right offences in Seychelles rise to the 
deterrent level required under Article 61 of the TRIPS Agreement?  
Answer: 
The penalties do not rise to the deterrent level required under Article 61 of the TRIPS.  However, it 
has to be borne in mind that the Act is dated since 1984, when such a fine was quite hefty and 
thus a huge deterrent in relation to Seychelles.  
I t  i s  a g r e e d  t h a t  a t  t h i s  d a y  a n d  a g e ,  s u c h  a  f i n e  d o e s  n o t  h a v e  m u c h  o f  a  d e t e r r e n t  e f f e c t .   
As such, Seychelles, is reviewing the amount upwards in order to have a deterrent effect.  This will 
be in a form of a regulation und er the upcoming copyright law. 
VII. TRANSPARENCY Question 81 Could Seychelles inform whether public cons ultations with stakeholders are required 
before adopting laws?  If not, would Seyc helles have the intention to establish such 
consultations?  We encourage the Seyc helles authorities to regularly consult 
stakeholders on all new laws and enact a so lid regulatory review process to foster 
overall transparency of  its policy-making. 
Answer: 
Prior to a law being submitted to Parliament for debate and subsequent adoption, public 
consultations are held with stakeholders to ensure that they are aware of what is happening and 
also to have their input about the legislation that will be having a direct effect on them. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  ANNEX I 
Questions on Seychelles' Customs Management Act 
PART II - ADMINISTRATION II. Administrative Matters 
Question 82 
Article 12 (page 219):   
Please provide further clarification on the types of "specific services" and fees that 
Customs may provide by regulation.  Is the Government of Seychelles currently 
contemplating any beyond those included in this Law? 
Answer: 
The types of "specific services" and fees that Customs may provide by regulation are covered 
under Statutory Instrument (S.I.) 26 of 2011 of the Revenue Administration Act of which a copy 
has been submitted to the Working Party.  For the time being the Government is not contemplating the imposition of any fees beyond those included under this Law. 
Question 83 
Article 13 (page 220): How does the Government of Seychelles envi sion how the Customs stamp and seal will 
be used?   
Answer: 
Customs stamps will be used for the endorsem ent of documents such as EUR1, COMESA, SADC 
(upon acceding the FTA) certificate of origin or any other official document being released or that 
is officially required to be authenticated by Customs. 
The Customs seal will be used in accordance an d as provided for under Customs Management Act. 
Question 84 
Will companies be required to have all docu ments certified and stamped by Customs? 
Answer: 
Companies will not necessarily be required to have all documents certified and stamped unless 
circumstances warrant it. Such examples are provided below.  
If you intend to make a shipment to any EU co untries under the interim EPA (iEPA) Protocol of 
Origin, it is mandatory that you produce an EUR1 certificate of origin and have it endorsed by Customs prior to making the shipment under this agreement. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  PART III – RIGHTS OF REPRESENTATIVES 
I. Declarant and third party representation Question 85 Article 25 (page 224): 
Does a company have a choice of whether to  use a customs broker or to authorize any 
other person?  What are the eligibilit y requirements for a customs broker? 
Answer: 
Yes, a company does have a choice to as to whether to use a Customs broker (i.e.:  clearing agent 
in the context of Seychelles) or to authorize any other person.  
The eligibility requirements for a customs broker falls under the purview of the Trade and Customs 
Agent Board (TACAB) established under Section 80 of the Revenue Administration Act. 
II. General information, decisions an d binding decisions given by Customs 
Question 86 Article 29 (page 225): 
Who can apply to receive Customs information?   Are there any restrictions on who may 
apply?  What is the time-frame for providing said information? 
Answer: 
Any person requiring information relating to this Act can apply to receive Customs information.  There is no set time-frame for Customs to pr ovide the requested information.  However, 
depending on the complexity of the informatio n being requested, Customs will provide the 
information within a reasonable time-frame. 
PART IV – Application of Import  or Export Duties, Taxes or Levies and Other Measures in 
Respect of Trade in Goods 
Question 87 
Article 40 to 41 (page 231): 
We understand that classification, origin and valuation for customs purposes will be 
prescribed by regulation.  What is the stat us of these regulations?  When drafts are 
available, please provide them to the Work ing Party so that interested Members can 
review them.  
Answer: 
Draft copies of these regulations have been pr epared and submitted to the Attorney General's 
Chamber.  As soon these drafts from the Atto rney General's Chamber are available, we will 
provide them to the Working Party, so that interested Members can review them.  These regulations will be ready fo r vetting by Members in April. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  PART VI – Entry of Goods 
I. Prohibited or restricted goods Question 88 Article 63(b) (page 245): 
Please explain what is meant by "dutiable or taxable goods shall not be exempt from 
duties, taxes or levies due to their importat ion being unlawful".  If goods are prohibited 
from being imported, what duties or taxes would be collected on their importation?  
Answer: 
This is best explained using an example.  The importation of any kind of gun is prohibited. 
However, special dispensation has been given to the Seychelles Island Foundation (SIF) (an NGO) to import a small quantity of shot guns and live ammunitions which the appropriate authority have 
been given permission for them to use to eradicate invasive species, such as goats, which are 
adversely affecting the fragile eco system of our outer islands such as Aldabra, declared as a world heritage site by UNESCO.  It is to be noted that taxes are applicable on the tariff line where such 
item could be classified and as such it is payable. 
II. Entry of Goods into Seychelles Question 89 
Article 64(2) (pages 245 to 246): 
Please clarify whether customs begins its revi ew of the summary declaration prior to the 
arrival of the goods.  
Answer: 
Importers can submit summary declaration prior to the arrival of the goods.  However, Customs is 
yet to implement the review of summary declaration. 
Question 90 
Article 69(2) (page 247): 
Does the bonding system apply differently to different categories of products?  
Answer: 
Under Section 69(2), there is no difference for different categories of products; it is the same 
treatment for all categories. 
III. Stores Question 91 
Article 85(2) (page 251): 
Under what conditions and restrictions is the Assistant Commissioner of Customs 
permitted to authorize a warehouse keeper to  remove duty or tax-free goods from the 
duty or tax-free shop to any other Customs-approved procedure or use? WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 33 - 
 
  Answer: 
The conditions and restrictions that the Assistant Commissioner of Customs shall impose on a 
warehouse keeper to remove duty or tax-free goods from the duty or tax-free shop to any other Customs-approved procedure or use is the submission of a written request by the operator or an 
ex-warehouse entry or declaration which must be fully assessed and receipted before the duty or 
tax free goods from the duty or tax-free shop can be removed to any other Customs approved procedures or use. 
PART VIII – Customs Procedures 
I. Declaration Question 92 Article 11(2) (page 219):  
What are the repercussions if a Customs officer releases the information contrary to the 
provisions in this section?   
Answer: 
The repercussions in the event that a Customs of ficer releases the information contrary to the 
provisions in this section are that the offence will be dealt with under Schedule 2, Part I & II of the Employment Act, 1995.  (A copy of the Act has been submitted to the Working Party for ease of 
reference.) 
Question 93 Article 11(2) (page 219): What are the potential penalties and punishments? 
Answer: 
In the worst case scenario, the officer may be dismissed. 
Question 94 
Article 22.1 (page 222):  
The CMA states that the time of importation is when a vessel is within 12 nautical 
miles/territorial miles.  Pl ease explain how Seychelles ve rifies date and time of 
importation based on this approach.  In the ca se of the importation by air, the time of 
importation is when the vessel arrives and is prepared to unlade.  Is there a reason Seychelles cannot follow the same a pproach for importation by sea? 
Answer: 
This section of the CMA has been drafted in accordance with international best practice. Question 95 Article 29 (page 225): 
Where are the charges, rate of charges, or fe es that will be applied for the services in 
this section?   WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Answer: 
These charges, rate of charges or fees that will be applied for the services in this section is located 
under Statutory Instrument (S.I.) 26 of 2011 prescribed by Section 80 of the Revenue Administration Act (RAA). 
Question 96 
Article 30.7(c) (page 226): Does this provision mean that rulings can only  be revoked or modified by regulation?   
Answer: 
Yes, this provision does mean that rulings ca n only be revoked or modified by regulation. 
Question 97 Article 32 (page 227): 
How does this appeals section work with the framework set-out in the value section 
supplied in the other documents?   
Answer: 
The appeals mechanism in place at present applies in all circumstances. Question 98 Articles 32 to 33 (page 227): 
Is the decision of the Assistant Commissioner of Customs the first decision or the first 
level of appeal?  What level of decisi on is the Customs officer's decision? 
Answer: 
The decision of the Assistant Commissioner of Customs is deemed to be the first decision, 
irrelevant if the decision is taken by an officer, and as such any appeal against such decision must 
be submitted to the Revenue Commissioner. 
Question 99 
Articles 32 to 33 (pages 227 to 228): 
Where can provisions relating to the effective date of a favourable decision be found?   
Answer: 
The provisions relating to the effective date of a favourable decision can be found in the draft 
appeals regulations, which have been submitted to the Attorney General's Chamber for vetting. 
Question 100 Articles 35 to 38 (pages 228 to 230): 
Are there provisions for alternate storage of records such as converting them to 
electronic files?  WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Answer: 
There are currently no such specific provisions for alternate storage of records such as converting 
them to electronic files.  Given the importance  of such issue, we will make the necessary 
arrangement to have appropriate Statutory Instrument drafted to cater for this important 
requirement. 
Question 101 Article 57 (page 241): 
Please explain the discrepancy between this provision and Section 22(1), which 
specifies that the time of importation is when  the vessel enters the territorial waters?  
The requirement to provide notice of arriva l, manifest, and other customs documents is 
within three hours of arrival of vessel, ye t the goods have already been imported as 
provided by Section 22(1)?   
Answer: 
Section 22(1) and Section 57 cover two different issues.  Section 22(1) is in place to ascertain the 
point at which importation can be said to have occurred.  Whereas, the three hours referred to in 
Section 57 is in relation to the submission of mani fest be it in electronic format or hard copy. 
Question 102 
Article 63 (page 245): 
Where are the regulations on restricted and pr ohibited goods?  Can we access them or 
can Seychelles provide them to the Working Party for Members to review? 
Answer: 
The regulations on restricted and prohibited goods is being reviewed and has been circulated to 
the relevant authorities for their final input prior to submission to the Attorney General's Chamber for vetting.  A copy of the draft document will be  made available to Members of the Working Party 
once it has been vetted by the relevant authorities. 
Question 103 Article 63.3 (page 245): 
Can you confirm that according to this provis ion, duties are still owed on goods that are 
prohibited or restricted from entry?   
Answer: 
Yes, duties are still owed on goods that are prohibited or restricted from entry. 
Question 104 
Article 64 (pages 245 to 246): Is the entry summary the entry form that is used to request release of goods for home 
use from customs?  Are they required to be electronically submitted before arrival?   
Answer: 
The summary declaration is not the entry form that is used to request release of goods for home 
use from customs.  The summary declaration is used for risk management purposes which permit 
customs to determine if the consignment should be subjected to physical examination upon arrival.   WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  The entry summary can either be submitted elec tronically or by means of a printed copy. 
Question 105 Article 64 (pages 245 to 246): How does the requirement that the entry summary be provided in written form work? 
Answer: 
Section 64 provides for electronic form and/or hard copy. 
Question 106 
Article 69.1 (page 247): 
Where the corresponding regulations for each of  the restrictions listed in this provision? 
Answer: 
The existing regulations on restricted goods issued under Article 63(2) of CMA are under revision 
and circulation to concerned authorities for vetting.  It can be made available to the Working Party 
after vetting is completed. 
Question 107 
Article 69.2 (page 248): 
What does the term "customs status" mean  as it is used in this provision? 
Answer: 
The term "customs status" implies, inter alia , whether the goods are dutiable or free of duty and 
whether these are prohibited or restricted goods. 
Question 108 Article 87 (page 252): 
Does Seychelles have any measur e that defines the term "trans hipment".  A definition of 
transhipment would be helpful to distinguis h the procedure outlined in this provision 
from "transit".  
Answer: 
Seychelles relies on the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) definition for "Customs transit" which 
means the Customs procedure under which goods are transported under Customs control from one 
office to another.  Transhipment on the other ha nd is defined as per page 215 of the CMA "means 
a Customs procedure under which goods are transferred under Customs control from the importing means of transport to the exporting means of transport within the area of one Customs office which is the office of both importation and exportation". 
Question 109 
Article 98.1 (page 255): Does Seychelles require that all imported good s go to a warehouse, or other facility to 
undergo customs clearance, before they ar e released to the importing party?   WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Answer: 
Yes.  Seychelles require that all imported goods go to a warehouse, or other facility to undergo 
customs clearance, before they are released to the importing party. 
Question 110 
Article 99 (page 257): 
What is the difference between this cust oms declaration and the entry summary?  
Is there a difference based on the type of shipment? 
Answer: 
The entry summary is a declaration of goods being brought into Seychelles before it is landed.  
The purpose of the entry summary is to provide Cu stoms with the opportunity to risk profile the 
consignment before it arrives whereas Customs declaration is used to facilitate clearance of goods 
upon importation and exportation. 
Question 111 Article 101 (pages 257 to 258): 
Do you have a definition of "commercial" or "non-commercial"?  
Answer: 
There is no definition provided in the act given th at the dictionary definition of the words has to 
apply. 
Question 112 Article 103 (page 258): What is the date of acceptance of declarat ion?  What is necessary for "acceptance"?  
This would be clearer if we had access to the regulations referred to therein, if so 
promulgated.   
Answer: 
The date of acceptance of declaration is the date  when the declaration is submitted for assessment 
by Customs. 
The submission of all necessary documents such as invoice, packing list, bill of lading, import 
permit (if required), etc. is necessary for acceptance. 
Question 113 Articles 108 to 111 (pages 260 to 262): Are there regulations or information regardin g the laboratories that will be used by 
Customs or how an importer may also get tests?   
Answer: 
There are no regulations with regards to laboratories.  Currently, customs does not have its own 
laboratory but in circumstances where an analysis is required on a particular product such as 
plastic bags to determine its number of micron s, customs would seek the assistance of the 
Seychelles Bureau of Standards that is accredited at international level to conduct such analysis.  WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  The importer can go directly to the SBS to have their sample tested.  However, the sample must 
be the same as the consignment being cleared at Customs. 
Question 114 Article 112.5 (page 262): 
How does the appeal to the Revenue Tribunal for amount of duties owed where value is 
not determined work with earlier sections of the CMA relating to appeals and Seychelles' other document on value and disputes?   
Answer: 
Seychelles is working on a unified appeal procedure for the Revenue Commission that will include 
appeal on valuation of goods. 
Question 115 
Article 115 (page 263): 
In what instances and under what circum stances will simplified and supplementary 
declarations for clearance of goods be applied? 
Answer: 
Simplified declaration is used in cases of emergency where a consignment needs to be cleared 
immediately, customs will request for minimum information to facilitate speedy clearance of the 
imports.  Supplementary declaration exists but it is really rare. 
Question 116 Article 116 (page 263): Can Seychelles provide the regulations govern ing customs seizures and forfeitures of 
goods?   
Answer: 
Drafts of these regulations have been submitted to the Attorney General's Chamber for vetting.  
A copy of the draft document will be made availa ble to Members of the Working Party once it has 
been vetted by the relevant authorities. 
Question 117 
Article 127.2 (page 267): 
Can Seychelles provide the regulations on handling goods in FTZs?  Answer: 
The regulation on handling goods in FTZs is in the process of being drafted. 
Question 118 
Article 124 (page 266): Are there any restrictions on who can apply for and the type(s) of goods for which an 
application for special procedures can be made? WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Answer: 
Yes, only a person residing in Seychelles can apply for special procedures.  There are no 
restrictions regarding the types of goods. 
Question 119 
Article 128.7 (page 269): 
What is the rationale for offering FTZ manu facturing and substitution of equivalent 
goods while also prohibiting FTA manufacturi ng and substitution where it is more 
economical for the importer or re sults in less duties and taxes? 
Answer: 
Seychelles would like to have more clarification regarding this question as it not clear what is being 
asked for. 
Question 120 
Article 134.2 (page 271): The regulation states that goods will be treated as abandoned if put in a public 
warehouse by a customs officer and no cu stoms procedure has been elected by a 
declarant.  How quickly does this abandonmen t attachment occur?  What happens to the 
trader's interest in the so-called abandoned goods?  What does customs do with and 
when with these abandoned goods?  Is there a way to recall them from their abandoned 
status? 
Answer: 
After 60 days the goods are considered as abando ned unless it is perishable goods where customs 
can deal with it before that period.  
In the regulation, the interest of the declarant ha s been taken care of.  A draft of the regulation 
has been sent to the Attorney General's Chamber for vetting.  
Abandoned goods are normally disposed by auction unless it is perishable goods where it will be 
destroyed if the expiry date has elapsed.  
It is possible for the Assistant Commissioner of Customs to extend the 60 days to three months, 
subject to further extension in specific circumstances.  The importer may claim the goods within 
the extended period, on payment of the appropriate duties, taxes, etc. and on completion of necessary formalities. 
Question 121 
Article 145.1 (page 275): 
This section points to Section 116, which states  regulations will need to be promulgated.  
Are such regulations regarding the seizure and forfeiture proceedings available?  Also, is 
it correct that there is no method for extending the time in a warehouse so as not to 
forfeit all ownership?  If so, please  explain the rationale for this rule. 
Answer: 
The draft regulation has been submitted to the A ttorney General's Chamber for vetting.  As soon 
the draft from Attorney General's Chamber is avai lable we will provide them to the Working Party, 
so that interested Members can review them.  It is not correct to say that there is no method for WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  extending the time in a warehouse before such goods are subject to seizure.  This is clearly 
provided for in Section 145(1). 
Question 122 Article 158 (page 279): 
We understand that relief from duties on an  outward processing or repair is only 
allowed if such repair could not be performe d in Seychelles.  Why is relief from duties 
limited to these circumstances, when it is  acknowledged the good had already been 
subject to duties and taxes or was a Seychelles-originating good? 
Answer: 
We have taken note of the comments raised and appropriate steps will be taken to modify the 
Article accordingly.  A draft co py of the amendment will be made  available to the Working Party 
after it has been vetted by the office  of the Attorney General's Chamber. 
Question 123 Article 157 (page 279): 
What constitutes "special circumstances"? 
Answer: 
That would be in the case of a force majeure  (circumstances beyond control). 
Question 124 
Article 172.2(c) (page 282): How do you take the interests of Seychelles producers into account in determining the 
remission of duties for conforming goods upon their exportation?   
Answer: 
It is at the discretion of the producers to make use of the inward processing regime available 
where they can benefit from relief from duties and taxes on goods imported to produce finished 
goods for export. 
Question 125 Article 164.1 (page 283): 
This regulation states that Customs will set the yield rate, considering the factors that 
need to be taken into account for proc essing, which may not be known to the 
government.  How is the government in the be st position to set this standard rather 
than merely collecting what is owed by the trader?   
Answer: 
The Government will have to understand the operat ion involved and, based on such information, 
arrive at a rate of yield that will reflect the pr ocessing operation engaged in by the establishment 
concerned.  This exercise shall be undertaken in consultation with the relevant stakeholders. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Question 126 
Article 175 (page 288): What constitutes a security fo r the temporary admission of goods under total or partial 
relief of duties, taxes, or levies? Are thes e different than the guarantees used for 
bonding? 
Answer: 
Guarantees used for bonding is one form of gu arantee secured for the duration of the bond 
whereas security for temporary admission merely applies to the goods being temporarily imported. 
Question 127 Article 181.1(c) (page 290): In this outward processing, same as inward processing in 162.2(c) how do you take into 
account the interests of Seychelles' producers in determining the remission of duties for 
conforming goods upon their exportation.   
Answer: 
The answer to that question is the same as the answer for Question 126.  However, it has to be 
pointed out that there is no special treatment afforded to Seychellois producers compared to foreign ones. 
Question 128 
Article 184 (page 291) How does this value calculation conform to Seychelles use of BDV? Answer: 
This value calculation in future will be based on the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation. Question 129 Article 199.1(b) (page 300): 
Please explain the export duti es, taxes, and levies that are imposed on exports and set 
forth in this section.   
Answer: 
At present, Seychelles does not apply export duties or taxes.  However, Seychelles retains the 
right to apply export duties and taxes in future. 
Question 130 Article 209.2 (page 304): 
This provision states that a party that supp lied information to a customs declarant that 
was used on a customs declaration could be considered a debtor to Customs.  
Can you clarify this section and how this would be enforced?   WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 42 - 
 
  Answer: 
This Article applies to persons who knowingly gave false information, and they are held responsible 
for payment of chargeable duties. 
Question 131 
Article 216.3(d) (page 308): 
Please clarify how the Seychelles uses this provision for enforcement against the party 
described therein so as to make him liable for a monetary debt while he took no action 
with customs.   
Answer: 
This provision applies to person(s) who knowingly gave false information, and they are held 
responsible for payment of chargeable duties. 
Question 132 
Article 220 (page 309): Please clarify how this section conforms to Seychelles use of BDV for customs purposes?   
Answer: 
This value calculation in future will be based on the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation. 
Question 133 
Article 225 (page 311): 
Please provide further clarification as to when a type of guarantee would be 
incompatible with the proper functions of customs. 
Answer: 
The Assistant Commissioner may refuse to accept any form of guarantee other than those 
stipulated under 225(1)(a) to (c).  In other words where a guarantee is proposed and customs is of the view that the guarantee wi ll not provide assurance that the customs debt will be paid, such 
guarantee may be refused. 
Question 134 Article 228 (page 312): 
Why does Customs not release the guarantee automatically when the debt is settled as 
opposed to requiring further action from the party giving the guarantee?  Second, what 
does "not justify the release mean" in that same section.   
Answer: 
Section 228 states that once the debt is settled, the guarantee is released automatically, without 
requiring any further action from the party giving the guarantee. 
The terms "does not justify the release" means that where the debt is partly settled and the 
remaining amount is substantial, the release will not be justifiable. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  Question 135 
Article 234.10 (page 316): What is the time period within which the customs authority can claim the goods, sell 
them and keep the proceeds?  When does Customs take title extinguishing all other 
claims?  
Answer: 
The time period is normally very short.  However,  it depends on the perishable nature of the goods 
and the state of the living creature. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
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  ANNEX II 
List of Licensable Activiti es and Licence Fees Payable 
 LICENCE FEE 1 YR L ICENCE FEE 5 YRS L ICENCE FEE 10 YRS 
ACCOMMODATION    
To Keep/Manage a Hotel  SR100 per room  
To Keep/Manage a Guest House  SR1,200  
To Keep/Manage a Self-Catering 
Establishment  SR50 per room 
(minimum fee SR1,000)  
To Keep/Manage a Luxury Villa    
To Keep/Manage a restaurant   SR1,500  
To Keep/Manage a Café  SR1,200  
To Provide Catering Services  SR500  
To Keep/Manage Discotheque  SR2,000  
To Engage in a Take-Away Business  SR1,200  
 
BUILDING CONTRACTOR    
Class I  SR5,000  
Class II  SR2,000  
Class III  SR1,500  
Class IV  SR1,200  
*Overseas Building Contractor for a specific investment project US$5,000* 
 
BROADCASTING AND 
TELECOMMUNICATION    
Satellite Broadcasting receiver Dish 
size of up to 1.8m (individuals) SR1,200 per year   
Individuals – 
Dish size in excess of 1.8m up to 2.4m SR2,000 per year SR8,000  
Individuals, small hotel, guesthouse 
of 10 rooms or leisure centres.  Dish size of 1.8m or more Approved by Telecom.  But less than 2.5m in size SR2,000 per year SR8,000  
Other hotels and large 
establishments. Dish size greater than 2.5m in size. SR5,000 per year   
Amateur radio  SR1,000 per year   
Amateur radio SR500 for 3 months   
Audiotex services SR1,000   
VHF radio (common channel) SR300   
VHF radio (private channel maritime 
services) SR500 per set up to 
10 sets and SR300 per set for each set in excess of 10 sets   
Commercial Ocean going Seychelles 
Flag Vessel     
Less than 500 gross tonnage SR1,500 per year 
plus SR500 per Inmarsat terminal on board   
Over 500 gross tonnage SR1,800 per year 
plus SR500 per Inmarsat terminal on board   
Yacht (ocean going) SR900   
Citizen Band Radio SR300   
SSB Radio SR300   
Broadcasting Service Such sum may not be less than SR800,000 per year as may be agreed 
upon between the Minister responsi ble for broadcasting and applicant 
for the licence, having regard to the scale of service and facilities 
approved for the applicant. Duration of the licence specified under the agreement/licence. WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 45 - 
 
   LICENCE FEE 1 YR L ICENCE FEE 5 YRS L ICENCE FEE 10 YRS 
Telecommunication Service  
- Fixed telephone 
lines/Public Switched 
Telephone Network (PSTN) 
- Global System for Mobile 
(GSM) 10% of the annual 
gross receipts   
Cable Television  Fees and duration  of the licence specified under  
agreement licence. 
Internet Reseller Licence SR250   
Internet Access Service Prov ider SR40,000 per year or 2% the annual gross receipts. 
Voice Over Internet (VOIP) SR5,000   
Very Small Aperture Terminal 
(VSAT) SR5,000   
Accounting Authority  SR5,000  
 
COMPLEMENTARY HEALTH 
SERVICES    
Hydro therapist SR1,500   
Hypnotherapist SR1,500   
Reflexologist SR1,500   
Aroma therapist SR1,500   
Massage Therapist SR1,500   
Energy Therapist SR1,500   
Colour Therapist SR1,500   
Osteopath SR3,000   
Manipulative Therapist SR3,000   
Acupuncturist SR3,000   
Homeopath SR3,000   
 
DIVING BUSINESS    
Dive Center SR10,000   
Dive Operator SR7,000   
Power Dive SR2,000   
 
FISHERIES    
Local Fishing Vessel SR100   
Fishing Net SR100   
Homard SR500 for three 
months only   
To Fish Sea Cucumber SR3,000 Mini Mahe 
SR4,000 Lavenir, Lekonomi, Whaler SR7,000 Schooner   
To Process Sea Cucumber SR20,000 
Licence processing set at SR20k per annum  
Foreign Fishing Vessel 
(tuna longline)    
1 month per gross registered tonne SR60   
1 month or more registered tonne SR180   
1 year per gross registered tonne SR300   
Other licence fees e.g EEC vessels 
are established under the agreement in force SR1,000 
Where no such fees are specified in the agreement or the licence.  
 
GAMING ACTIVITIES    
Casino SR1m   
Betting  SR50,000   
Gaming Machines SR1,000 per 
machine   
Coin Operated Machines SR200   
Games of Chance Lottery SR200   
Games of Chance  SR1m   
 
HIRER    
Hirer of Bicycles SR400   
Hirer of Bullock Carts SR20   WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 46 - 
 
   LICENCE FEE 1 YR L ICENCE FEE 5 YRS L ICENCE FEE 10 YRS 
Hirer of loaders or excavators SR400   
Hirer of Public Omnibus SR1,000   
HIRER SELF-DRIVE  SR500 per vehicle per 6 months in addition to the road fund licence of 
R1 per cc. 
 
HIRECRAFT    
*Where hire craft belongs to a 
Seychellois*    
- craft not exceeding 3m SR500   
- craft exceeding 3m but not 6m SR1,500   
- craft exceeding 6m but not 9m SR4,000   
- craft exceeding 9m but not 12m SR6,000   
- craft exceeding 12m but not 20m SR8,000   
- craft exceeding 20m SR10,000   
Beach craft including windsurfing 
board, sail board and beach sports crafts. SR100 per 
non-motorized equipment SR200 per motorized equipment.   
*Where the hirecraft does not belong to a Seychellois, each of the fee is doubled* 
 
Plying Boat SR1,000   
Trade Vessel SR2,000   
Ferry SR2,000   
 
HEALTH SERVICES    
Medical Practitioner SR3,000   
Optometrist SR3,000   
Optician SR3,000   
Dentist SR3,000   
Pharmacist SR3,000   
Physiotherapist SR1,500   
Dental Technologist SR1,500   
Laboratory Technologist SR1,500   
Radiographer SR1,500   
Nurse SR500   
Each additional premises (clinic) SR2,000   
 
LIQUOR AND OUTDOOR 
ENTERTAINMENT    
Bottlers SR500   
Liquor – Off SR300   
Public Bar SR1,500   
Member’s Club SR1,500   
Bacca SR400   
Lapire SR100   
Temporary Liquor SR100 per day   
Outdoor entertainment SR500 for one day, not exceeding 3 days SR1,500. 
Exceeding 3 days SR5,000. 
 
MANUFACTURING    
*Where the projected annual 
turnover     
Is less than 100,000  SR1,200 SR2,400 
Exceeds 100,000 but will not 
exceed 500,000  SR1,400 SR2,800 
Exceeds 500,000  SR2,000 SR4,000 
 
NEWSPAPER PUBLISHER  SR2,000  
Each additional paper or 
supplementary paper  SR1,000  
 
NEWSPAPER PRINTER  SR2,000  
 WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 47 - 
 
   LICENCE FEE 1 YR L ICENCE FEE 5 YRS L ICENCE FEE 10 YRS 
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES    
Accountant  SR3,000  
Auditor  SR3,000  
Architect  SR3,000  
Computer Consultant  SR3,000  
Engineer   SR3,000  
Estate Agent  SR3,000  
Land Surveyor  SR3,000  
Legal Practitioner  SR3,000  
Marine and Cargo Surveyor  SR3,000  
Mechanical Engineer  SR3,000  
Notary  SR3,000  
Quantity Surveyor  SR3,000  
Veterinary Surgeon  SR3,000  
*Overseas Architect for a specific project under 1500 sqm US$2000* 
*Overseas Architect for a specific project over 1500sqm US$3000* 
*Overseas Engineer for a specific project under 1500 sqm US$2000* *Overseas Engineer for a specific project over 1500 sqm US$3000* 
 
SERVICES    
Advertising Agent  SR500  
Aircraft Agent  SR3,000  
Bakery  SR1,200  
Beautician  SR1,200  
Butcher  SR1,200  
Car washer  SR1,200  
Commission Agent  SR500  
Dealer in Pesticides  SR1,200  
Draughtsman Class I  SR1,000  
Draughtsman Class II  SR1,000  
Draughtsman Class III  SR1,000  
Draughtsman Class IV  SR1,000  
Driving Instructor  SR1,000  
Garage  SR1,200  
Hairdresser  SR1,200  
Labour Contractor  SR1,000  
Operator of Laundry Services  SR1,200  
Patent Agent  SR1,000  
Refrigeration Mechanic  SR1,000  
Shipping Agent  SR5,000  
Trade Mark Agent  SR1,000  
 
TRADE     
Employment Agency  SR2,000  
 
Exhibiting of Films To Public    
Where seating accommodation is 
less than 100 SR600   
Where seating accommodation is 
over 100 SR800   
 
Coco-De-Mer Dealer SR50   
 
*Petroleum Sale    
Petroleum Warehouse  SR1,200  
Fixed supply pump to store 
petroleum other than kerosene  SR500  
Fixed supply pump to store 
kerosene  SR500  
Movable supply pump to store 
petroleum other than kerosene  SR500  
Movable supply pump to store 
kerosene  SR500  
Dealing in or sale of petroleum 
storage capacity exceeding 1,000 litres  SR2,000  WT/ACC/SYC/23 
 
- 48 - 
 
   LICENCE FEE 1 YR L ICENCE FEE 5 YRS L ICENCE FEE 10 YRS 
Dealing in or sale of petroleum 
storage capacity less than 1,000 litres  SR250  
Retail  SR1,200  
Ship Chandler  SR2,250  
Tour Operator  SR2,000  
Travel Agent  SR2,000  
Tour Guide  SR1,000  
Wholesale  SR1,200  
Import  SR1,200  
Motor Vehicle Dealer  SR3,000  
 
VEHICLE 
 Registration of motor vehicles SR100    
Motorcycle with/without side car SR1.50 per cc 
subject to a minimum fee of R200   
Private/Public motor vehicle (other 
than motorcycle, tractor, mobile crane, tracked-motor vehicle) SR1.50 per cc 
subject to a minimum fee of SR1,000   
Mobile Crane SR1.50 per kg 
subject to a minimum fee of SR1,000   
Tracked motor vehicle and other 
vehicles on wheels (not elsewhere specified) including excavator, loader/handle shovel, grader, digger, road roller and heavy duty 
vehicle SR1.50 per kg 
subject to a minimum fee of SR5,000  
   
Commercial motor vehicle, where 
the vehicle is used or intended to be used for  the conveyance of goods in connection with the trade or business of the owner of the vehicle SR1.50 per cc 
subject to a minimum fee of SR1,000  
  
Commercial motor vehicle, where 
the vehicle is used or intended to be 
used for the conveyance of goods 
for hire SR1.50per cc 
subject to a 
minimum fee of 
SR1,000   
 
Taxi SR500 per year in 
addition to the road fund licence of SR1.50 per cc   
Bicycle SR100 including 
SR50 insurance and SR40 licence per year. Registration fee SR10   
 
DRIVING LICENCE    
Local driving licence   SR500 
International driving licence SR500   
(Status: 02/11/2011) 
 
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