Ketidakpastian cukai minyak bercampur jejas operasi

An uncertainty surrounding taxes on blended oil cargoes at Tanjung Langsat Port in Johor has raised concerns about the shipping and petroleum industries. Jeyenderan Ramasamy, a player in the industry, urged the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) to clarify whether such a practice is allowed and how taxes should be levied.

He emphasized that this issue is crucial due to Tanjung Langsat Port controlling the shipment of oil cargoes from ships to land tanks during vessel transfer or transshipment operations. He noted that blending of cargoes may occur during the operation, but companies require clear guidelines on the relevant rules and taxes involved.

"When different cargoes are mixed in land tanks following discharge from ships, Customs must determine whether the blending is correct and how the relevant cargo should be taxed afterward," he stated in a statement. Ramasamy suggested that the Customs Department should also explain the requirements related to documentation, cargo classification, assessment, and tax calculation.

According to him, companies should not be left to interpret these matters themselves, as mistakes could result in significant financial consequences. "If this practice is allowed, Customs must clearly state the requirements to be followed. If taxes need to be paid, companies must know precisely how they are calculated. If no tax is levied under the applicable rules, that should be clearly stated as well," he added.

He stressed that ongoing uncertainty could lead to delays in cargo handling, increased storage costs, and disrupted business operations. Ramasamy also urged the Customs Department to discuss the actual operations of oil cargoes at Tanjung Langsat Port with industry players, including storage and transshipment processes. Previously, concerns had arisen about blending different oil cargoes in land tanks after being discharged from ships, which could alter cargo conditions and create problems in classification, assessment, and taxation if documents are not updated accurately.