Reduced Imports
p. 14 · Read in the full issue
Helping Australia:
Reduced Imports for P-N. Guinea
IMPORT restrictions began in
Papua and New Guinea on December 1. This is in line with Australian Government policy of bringing external payments into full balance by June, 1956.
This is regarded as essential in view of the deterioration of Australia’s overseas reserves in the last 18 months. Import restrictions were intensified in Australia as from October I—the third time in 12 months that imports have been curtailed.
P-NG imports from non-Aus tralian sources have increased by about 300 per cent, since 1953—in the last financial year they were £9,600,000.
P-NG’s imports from Australia are not affected* by the new restrictions, which are not as severe as those in Australia. Other imports have been divided into four categories—“A”, “B”, “C” and •‘Administrative.”
Licences to import category A goods may be granted up to 100 per cent, of 1954-55 imports. Goods in this category include iron and steel, prefabricated metal buildings, mining and some other machinery, tractors and parts, etc.
Licences for only 90 per cent, of the category B goods imported in the year will be granted.
These goods include cars and trucks, clothing and textiles, manu factured tobacco and cigarettes, spirits, paint, paper, footwear, some household goods, matches, watches and clocks, and photographic goods. x .
Licences for only 75 per cent, of base-year category C goods will be granted. These goods are generally regarded as non-essential goods and foodstuffs not usually obtained from Australia.
It is hoped to keep “Administra tive” category goods to their 1954-55 levels but if these imports are essential the base quotas may be exceeded. These goods include cement, chemicals, petrol, oils and lubricants, bags, sacks, cordage and twines agricultural and dairying machinery, electrical equipment and appliances, surgical and dental instruments and appliances, cotton wool and surgical dressings, medicines and drugs, tea and coffee, and articles used for
educational and religious purn The restrictions mean more E work for importers. They furnish to the Collector of Cus at their respective ports, parties of their imports during 195' making a separate return for item. Returns must be accompa by a Statutory Declaration. will be allocated on a quar. basis.