The Department of Customs has authorized its customary tax-free import of gifts for friends and relatives up to US$1,500. Of the total, US$1,000 corresponds to the value of the gifts, and another US$500 allotment is approved for personal use items. The measure benefits Dominican expatriates who have not visited for the past six months. The measure will be in effect for those visiting from 1 December through 7 January.