Expedite hearing in duty evasion case: HP

The Indian unit of US computer giant Hewlett-Packard has said that it has filed applications before the Customs tribunal seeking early hearing of its appeal and extension of the stay granted on a case relating to alleged duty evasion of $386 million. The company said this in a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission last week.

The case relates to the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) filing showcause notices to HP’s Indian subsidiary Hewlett-Packard India Sales Pvt Ltd (HPI), seven current HP employees and one former HP employee alleging that the company underpaid customs duties while importing products and spare parts into India. DRI sought to recover approximately $370 million plus penalties from the company by way of what it alleged was evaded duty.

The showcause notices were issued on April 30 and May 10, 2010. On April 11, 2012, the Bangalore Commissioner of Customs issued an order affirming duties and penalties of approximately $386 million against HP India and the individuals named in the notices. HP said that it has deposited $9 million towards this claim.