The scheme is in line with the EU Treaty of Accession and has been introduced to maintain the stable pricing of these products.

The schemes are particularly applicable to traditional importers

who fit the criteria developed by the ministry which varies from one

product to another.

The applications can be made until Friday 14 May. When applying, those eligible to be registered as traditional importers or non-traditional importers will be required to provide details of their purchase intentions for the next six months.

When entering into contracts with suppliers, importers will be required to provide the Ministry with a bank guarantee, which will be released within four weeks of the physical delivery and local customs clearance of the goods.