Online shoppers complain of delays as GST changes create parcel backlog in Jersey
Online shoppers in Jersey have complained of delays after their parcels were detained by customs in light of changes to import tax.
Last month, the threshold at which the 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) applies was reduced from £240 to £130. Alongside the value of the goods, this threshold also includes the cost of post, insurance and other taxes such as VAT.
Islanders say they have been taxed where multiple purchases are shipped on the same day, with customs holding on to the parcels until the 5% charge has been paid online.
The way the tax is being applied has also created a backlog, with the Post Office reporting a three-fold increase in the number of items being detained by customs to anywhere between 300 and 900 packages at a given time.
The island's Consumer Council says it has received dozens of complaints about the issue.
When reducing the threshold, the government said it was in order to support businesses on the island and allow a more level playing field with online retailers.
The island's Treasury Minister says the customs team work to clear parcels as quickly as possible.