Law Bureau defends major international logistics operator in a customs duty evasion case

The company’s interests are represented by Daria Sazontova, Attorney and Junior Partner at Belsky & Partners, and Alexey Kizerev, Counsel of Customs Practice.

The attorneys are defending the interests of an international logistics operator providing customs representation services in a criminal case under Article 194 of the Russian Criminal Code (evasion of customs payments). The case concerns the alleged failure to include paid royalty fees in the customs value of goods participating in loyalty programs of major retail chains.

The Bureau’s legal team has developed a comprehensive defense strategy based on the provisions of the EAEU Customs Code, EEC recommendations, established arbitration practice, and a detailed analysis of the factual circumstances. The position consistently demonstrates the absence of intent by the company to evade customs payments.

The successful implementation of the project and the confirmation of the customs representative’s non-involvement in the alleged offense are crucial for preserving the Client’s business reputation and operational stability. Moreover, the established legal position reinforces the legitimacy of the Client’s business model and mitigates future compliance risks in cooperation with other partners. At this stage, the company’s management and staff retain the status of witnesses.

This project is significant for the entire industry, as it contributes to the development of legal practice that clearly distinguishes the liability of a customs representative (declarant acting on behalf of a client) from that of the importer, preventing unjustified attempts by law enforcement authorities to impose responsibility for clients’ actions on customs representatives.