I work as an accountant in a company, and this company writes the invoice value lower than the actual invoice value so that the customs duty is paid.

The questioner : I work as an accountant in a company whose activity is importing goods and then selling them in the market. With the increase in price competition, some merchants resort to certain tricks to lower the cost of the goods, and thus they can compete. One of these methods is agreeing with the exporting company that the invoice be less than its actual value, which may reach less than half. Consequently, the merchant pays half of the actual due amount at customs or less. For example, the original invoice is two hundred thousand riyals, and the merchant pays this amount to the company. However, the invoice submitted to customs is one hundred thousand riyals, and the merchant pays customs of twelve thousand riyals on it. Whereas, if the original invoice of two hundred thousand riyals were submitted, he would pay twenty-four thousand riyals to customs. Thus, he saves twelve thousand riyals. I know that I have worked in more than one company and found them following the same method, which left an impression on me that it is a commercial custom, although I am certain that it may be theft. You know, O honorable Shaykh, that the profession of an accountant obliges him to deal with these documents, and it is also incumbent upon me to keep the secrets of the company I work for. Now, I would like you to kindly let me know my position: is there a sin on me? And what can I do, knowing that I am a foreigner and on a contract? Please advise us, and may Allah reward you with good.

The Shaykh : I advise you to leave your job in this company.

The questioner : May Allah reward you with good.