The Keelung Customs Office under the Customs Administration, Ministry of Finance announced that in response to the easing of pandemic restrictions worldwide and the recovery of tourism, the Ministry of Finance has comprehensively reviewed factors such as domestic alcohol consumption demand, duty-free alcohol limits in neighboring countries, and government tax revenue. As a result, the Ministry amended Article 11 and Table 4 of the Regulations Governing the Declaration, Inspection, Duty Payment, and Release of Luggage and Goods of Incoming Passengers on January 23, 2024, increasing the duty-free alcohol limit for personal use from 1 liter to 1.5 liters. This amendment has been in effect since January 25, 2024. Since its implementation, the public has frequently inquired about the new rules to ensure they can fully enjoy their rights without violating regulations.

The Keelung Customs Office reminds that incoming travelers must be at least 18 years old to qualify for the 1.5-liter duty-free alcohol allowance (with no bottle limit for personal use). If there are no other items requiring customs declaration, travelers may choose the Green Lane and pass through customs without reporting.

If a traveler carries alcohol exceeding the duty-free limit mentioned above, they must proceed to the Red Lane and voluntarily declare the items upon entry. For alcohol within 5 liters (with no bottle limit, but mainland Chinese alcohol restricted to 1 liter), travelers may pay tax for the excess amount after deducting the 1.5-liter duty-free allowance and apply for customs clearance.

If the quantity exceeds the limit, travelers must provide a Liquor Import Permit and formally declare the import to customs, or alternatively, arrange for re-export or submit a written abandonment statement for the excess items.

To ensure efficient customs clearance, travelers carrying alcohol exceeding the duty-free limit should proactively declare their items. Failure to declare may result in confiscation and fines according to Article 45, Paragraph 4 of the Tobacco and Alcohol Administration Act.

For any questions regarding declarations, travelers may consult customs officers at the Red Lane in the arrival area or visit the Customs Administration website (https://web.customs.gov.tw/) for further information (Path: Home &rarr Select "Passenger Clearance").