New
Straits Times, 19 July, 2008.
KUALA LUMPUR : Ships docking at Malaysian ports will no longer have to cool their heels while waiting for their papers to be cleared by Customs.
Vessels will have their cargo pre-cleared, based on their estimated time of arrival (ETA).
There is also an allowance for the deferred payment of goods under certain circumstances.
Both initiatives, aimed at speeding up the shipment of goods, are among several improvements unveiled by the Special Task Force to Facilitate Business (Pemudah).
Pemudah co-chairman and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Sidek Hassan said the initiatives were intended to simplify processes and procedures for companies in the import and export line.
"This is to facilitate trade and increase revenue from Customs duties," Mohd Sidek said, adding that the pre-clearance would be conducted in accordance with World Customs Organisation standards.
The ETA information will be made available to all government agencies ahead of time to facilitate clearance at any time of the day, including weekends and public holidays.
However, the pre-clearance depends on whether the shipment's manifest and declaration are in order, whether it meets all regulatory requirements, including risk assessment, whether all duties have been paid and that no further inspection is required.
Westports executive chairman and Pemudah board member Tan Sri G. Gnanalingam welcomed the move, saying that quick cargo clearance was essential as many companies used just-in-time business practices.
"This system will help keep their inventory costs low because there will be no hold-ups in the supply chain.
"Previously, the ship had to be physically in port before all the documentation could be done.
"This slows down the process a lot, especially if the ship comes in on a weekend or a public holiday where banks are closed."
Customs will also collaborate with the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers to make it easier for companies to gain Customs Golden Client status, known internationally as authorised economic operators.
The CGC rewards compliant and well-run businesses in the country with quick Customs clearance service and better facilities. |
|
