Legal Definitions - impost

An impost refers to a tax or duty, typically imposed by a government on goods, services, or activities. While it can apply broadly to various forms of taxation, it is most commonly associated with customs duties levied on imported or exported items.

• Example 1: A clothing retailer in one country imports a large shipment of designer apparel from an overseas manufacturer. When the shipment arrives at the port of entry, customs authorities assess a percentage-based charge on the value of the clothing before it can be released for sale within the country.

  Explanation: This charge is an impost because it is a customs duty, a specific type of tax levied by the government on imported goods as they cross the border.

• Example 2: To fund a new public transportation initiative, a regional government implements a mandatory annual fee on all vehicles registered within its jurisdiction. This fee is collected alongside standard vehicle registration renewals.

  Explanation: This annual vehicle fee is an impost because it represents a tax or duty imposed by a governmental authority (the regional government) on a specific group (vehicle owners) to generate revenue for public services.

• Example 3: A national legislature passes a law introducing a new tax on all tobacco products sold within its borders, aiming to both generate revenue and discourage smoking. This additional cost is incorporated into the retail price of cigarettes and cigars.

  Explanation: This tax on tobacco products is an impost as it is a duty imposed by the government on a specific category of goods, intended to raise funds and influence public health.