Customer Advisory: Mandatory Pre-Shipment Compliance for PNG & Solomon Islands

Last Updated: 22 May 2026
 

Overview

Swire Shipping emphasizes the critical requirement for pre-shipment compliance when sending cargo to Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Solomon Islands.

All required import documentation, approvals, and tax exemption certificates must be fully secured before cargo departs the origin port.

Failure to comply will result in cargo clearance issues, delays, and additional charges.

Scope of Applicable Cargo

This advisory applies specifically to the following cargo categories:

• Humanitarian Aid and Charity Cargo
• Cargo destined for Government Agencies (PNG or Solomon Islands)
• Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Shipments
• Cargo requiring duty/tax exemptions or special permits

Mandatory Pre-Shipment Requirements

Before cargo is dispatched, the following must be completed:

• All import approvals obtained
• Customs documentation fully processed
• Tax and duty exemptions approved (if applicable)
• Any required permits issued and valid

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Cargo arriving without proper approvals will face the following:

At Arrival

• Cargo will not be customs cleared
• Shipment will be held at terminal storage

Operational Impact

• Increased risk of:
  • Storage charges
  • Container detention charges
  • Supply chain disruptions
  • Delivery delays

Responsibility & Liability

• The importer / consignee is solely responsible for:
  • Securing all approvals, permits, and exemptions
• Swire Shipping is not liable for:
  • Storage costs
  • Detention charges
  • Any delay-related expenses arising from missing documentation

All charges will be billed to the consignee listed on the Bill of Lading.
 

Abandonment Policy

Cargo that remains uncleared after 30 days from arrival may be declared “abandoned” by:

• Papua New Guinea Customs Service (PNGC)
• Solomon Islands Customs and Excise Division (SICED)

Possible Actions by Authorities

The customs authority may:

• Auction the cargo (public or private sale)
• Donate goods (if permitted)
• Destroy cargo (based on regulations or condition)

Key Takeaways

• Do not ship cargo without approvals already in place
• Pre-clearance is mandatory—not optional
• Delays can result in financial loss and cargo forfeiture

Contact Information

For further clarification or assistance:

Email: imports.pg@swireshipping.com