Malaysia Liquor Import License Details
- Roger Pay
- Apr 9
- 5 min read
Malaysia Liquor Import License Details
Importing liquor into Malaysia requires strict adherence to licensing and regulatory frameworks overseen primarily by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) and local authorities. Here's a detailed overview:
1. Licensing Authority and Regulations
The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) is the primary authority for issuing import licenses for intoxicating liquor. This is mandated under Regulation 42 of the Customs Regulations 2019 and the Customs (Prohibition of Imports) Order 2017.
A specific import license is required for all intoxicating liquor, tobacco, and denatured spirits. Importing these goods without a valid license is an offense that can lead to a fine not exceeding RM50,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year, or both.
The Ministry of Finance is also involved in the licensing process through the Panel on Cigarette and Liquors Licensing.
2. Types of Liquor Licenses in Malaysia (for Sales)
While your question focuses on import licenses, understanding the types of licenses required for selling liquor in Malaysia provides crucial context, as importers typically supply to these entities:
Public House License: For businesses like bars, clubs, and pubs to sell all types of alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption.
Retail License: For retailers such as liquor stores and convenience stores to sell all types of liquor for off-premise consumption.
Wholesale License: For wholesalers to sell alcoholic beverages to other retailers and wholesalers.
Beer House License: A specific type of Public House License for establishments that primarily sell beer for on-premise consumption.
Liquor Manufacturing License: For companies involved in the production of alcoholic beverages.
Note: Businesses that both serve alcohol on-premise and sell bottles for customers to take away need both a Public House and a Retail license. These sales licenses are issued by the Local Authorities of the district where the business is located.
3. Requirements for a Liquor Import License
While specific details can vary, general requirements for obtaining a liquor import license in Malaysia include:
Registered Business Entity: The applicant must have a registered business in Malaysia with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) or the relevant local authority.
Financial Capacity: Demonstrating sufficient financial resources to handle the import activities.
Suitable Premises: Having appropriate premises and storage facilities for the imported liquor.
Clean Record: The business owner or applicant should have a clean criminal record.
Application to Director General of Customs: Applications must be submitted in writing to the Director General of Customs at the RMCD.
Documentation: This typically includes:
Completed application form (separate forms may exist for liquor).
Company registration documents.
Detailed description of the liquor (brand, quantity, value, country of origin).
Information on the intended port of entry and storage warehouse address.
Proof of financial capability.
Documentary proof of appropriate premises and storage facilities.
Letter of appointment as an importer by the supplier or manufacturer (if applicable).
Retail or wholesale license (if applicable, as the importer will likely supply to these).
Business premises license issued by the local authority.
Possibly a minimum paid-up capital (this is specifically mentioned for cigarette imports but might be a general requirement).
4. Application Procedure for Import License
Obtain Application Form: Secure the relevant import license application form from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD). This might be available on their website or at their offices.
Prepare Documentation: Gather all the required documents mentioned above. Ensure all copies are certified true copies where necessary.
Submit Application: Submit the completed application form along with all supporting documents to the nearest RMCD office or the Director General of Customs at their headquarters in Putrajaya.
Pay Processing Fees: There will be processing fees associated with the application. The amount can vary.
Await Approval: The RMCD will review the application and may conduct verifications. The processing time can vary.
Collect License: Once approved, you will receive the import license, which will be valid for a specified period (typically twelve months).
5. Important Considerations and Regulations
HS Codes: Liquor products typically fall under HS code 2207 and related categories.
Restricted Items: Liquor is a controlled item in Malaysia, requiring a specific import license.
Labeling Requirements: Imported alcoholic beverages must comply with the labeling requirements outlined in the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985. This includes details about the product name, alcohol content, ingredients, manufacturer, etc.
Age Restrictions: The sale of alcohol is prohibited to individuals under 21 years of age in Malaysia.
Restrictions on Muslim Consumers: Selling alcohol to Muslims is illegal in Malaysia.
Customs Duties and Taxes: Imported liquor will be subject to customs duties and other applicable taxes, which can be significant (estimated between 150% to 250% of the value or a fixed amount per liter depending on alcohol content).
Traveller Exemptions: There are limited duty-free concessions for personal consumption by travelers (e.g., not exceeding 1 liter for those not arriving from Singapore and meeting other conditions). These exemptions are not for commercial import purposes.
Online Sales: Businesses selling alcohol online also require a liquor license.
To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date details on Malaysia's liquor import license, it is strongly recommended to directly contact the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD). Their website (https://www.customs.gov.my/en/pg) should have relevant information and contact details. You can also reach their headquarters at:
Director General,
Royal Malaysian Customs Department,
Kompleks Kementerian Kewangan No. 3, Persiaran Perdana, Presint 2,
62596 Putrajaya, Malaysia.
Phone numbers: +60 3 88822100, 88822300, 88822500.
How Bestar can Help
Engaging with Bestar in Malaysia offers significant benefits when navigating the complexities of obtaining a liquor import license and ensuring ongoing compliance with regulations. Here's a breakdown of how we can assist:
1. Expertise and Knowledge of Local Regulations:
Up-to-date Information: Bestar stays abreast of the ever-changing import regulations, licensing requirements, tariffs, taxes (including Sales and Service Tax - SST), and specific rules related to alcohol in Malaysia. This includes understanding the Customs Act 1967, Customs Regulations 2019, and the Customs (Prohibition of Imports) Order 2017, as well as any specific guidelines issued by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) and the Ministry of Finance.
Navigating Bureaucracy: We are familiar with the procedures, documentation needed, and the specific departments and personnel involved in the licensing process. This can significantly streamline the application.
Understanding Nuances: Bestar understands the subtle nuances of Malaysian customs practices and can anticipate potential issues or delays.
2. Assistance with the Application Process:
Document Preparation: We can guide you in preparing the necessary documents accurately, ensuring all requirements are met. This includes company registration details, product information (HS codes, value, origin), proof of premises, financial capacity, and other supporting documents.
Application Submission: We can assist with the proper submission of the application to the Director General of Customs at the RMCD, ensuring it is complete and correctly formatted.
Liaison with Authorities: We can act as a point of contact between your company and the RMCD, handling queries and providing additional information as needed.
3. Cost and Time Efficiency:
Avoiding Errors: Our expertise helps prevent costly mistakes in the application and import process that could lead to delays, rejection of the application, or penalties.
Faster Processing: Our familiarity with the procedures and established relationships with customs authorities can potentially expedite the licensing and clearance processes.
Focus on Core Business: By outsourcing the complex import and compliance tasks, your company can focus on its core business activities.
4. Risk Mitigation:
Identifying Potential Issues: We can identify potential compliance risks and advise on how to mitigate them.
Handling Disputes: In the event of any issues or disputes with customs, we can provide expert assistance in resolving them.
In summary, engaging Bestar in Malaysia for your liquor import license can provide invaluable support by leveraging our expertise in local regulations, streamlining the application process, ensuring ongoing compliance, saving time and money, and mitigating potential risks. Our knowledge can be the key to a smooth and successful entry of your liquor products into the Malaysian market.
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