"For example products originating in Turkey, Mediterranean countries like Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, or some countries in South and Central America, may benefit from an exemption of customs duties or reduced duties, " he says.

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The hikes were based on an exemption in the Mercosur trade agreement, a customs union made up of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and Paraguay, that allows those countries to protect domestic markets from import competition in times of economic weakness.

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As pigeon racing was not classified as a sport the club was not due a sporting exemption, but after an appeal to the Queen, the local MP and HM Revenue and Customs, it was granted 100% relief.

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