P4.75-M Smuggled Carrots, Other Vegetables Uncovered Several in Markets in Tondo
Personnel of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) has uncovered the smuggled carrots and other imported vegetables in several markets of Tondo, Manila.
Imported agricultural goods are deemed contraband, according to BOC. During an inspection, carrots, garlic, broccoli, red and yellow onions, and ginger were discovered in three market stalls.
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During the examination, the stall owners failed to show documentation of payment of customs and taxes, as well as the relevant import authorization, according to the agency. As a result, the smuggled products must be seized by the Customs personnel.
After various reports of smuggled carrots and other agricultural products have been spotted in markets in Divisoria, Manila, it prompted the operation. Authorities launched an investigation prior to the operation by acting as purchasers and obtaining letters of authority to inspect the stalls on Carmen Planas and Bilbao Streets in Tondo.
To examine the rapid growth of smuggled vegetables in local markets, a task team comprised of the BOC, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) was formed. William Dar, the Secretary of Agriculture, has also encouraged the people to avoid buying illegal carrots.
The investigation is ongoing, according to BOC, and they are doing the necessary tests on the products. This is to see whether the level of pesticide residue is dangerous to consumers.
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