With reference to duty and tax free importation of goods and materials for emergency reconstruction, the Ministry of Finance would like to advise the general public that all barrels, containing foodstuff for household consumption and shipped before November 1st, 2004, will not be subject to customs duties and taxes. However, Customs Service Charge of 2.5% must be paid. All barrels shipped as of November 1st, 2004 will be subjected to normal customs duties and taxes except in the case of: (a) Necessitous persons, as per the list maintained by the Ministry of Social Development (b) Registered churches and charitable organizations that are importing food and personal items for distribution. These organizations however will be required to pay a Customs Service Charge of 2.5%. SOURCE: MINISTRY OF FINANCE