Bulawayo, (New Ziana)- Government has made significant investment into modernising customs operations by adopting new technology and digitization in order to minimise delays, and plans to continue doing so to also lower costs and improve efficiency, a government official said.
In a speech read on his behalf, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development George Guvamatanga said initiatives implemented so far include setting up the Electronic Single Window System which streamlines customs clearance by integrating regulatory agencies, thus reducing duplication and expediting service delivery.
“To date, several ministries and departments including port health, National Ozone Unit and Radiation Protection Authority of Zimbabwe have subscribed to that platform.
“Through the ASYCUDA World System upgrades, ZIMRA has automated customs declarations, thus reducing paper work. The automation cuts border dwell times and promotes transparency,” he said.
He added: “Government in 2017, procured cargo scanners to ensure expedited clearances at the border. Currently, our major border posts are equipped with scanners.
“There is also pre-clearance of imports ensuring that all imports meet the standards before arrival at the border. In this way, delays and costs associated with customs procedures at destination port or airport are minimised.”
Guvamatanga implored all countries to work together to create a framework that promotes trade while safeguarding revenue.
“This includes sharing best practises, harmonising regulations, and establishing Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA), in this regard the MRA between Zimbabwe and Zambia is now at an advanced stage,” he said.
He also said it was essential to involve stakeholders such as business, consumers and government entities in discussions about trade policies as their contribution produced balanced solutions.
Guvamatanga said the government had instituted numerous measures to mobilise revenue as well as curbing revenue leakages and illicit financial flows.
“Certain goods such as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, dairy products, washing powder and detergents, sugar, among others are now deemed as smuggled unless the seller provides documentary evidence that customs was paid.
“Government has also put in place initiatives to curb Anti Money Laundering Activities. Currently, government has established a Transfer Pricing and Anti-Money Laundering unit in Zimra which is tasked with monitoring and investigating issues of tax evasion and avoidance involving international transactions,” he said.
Guvamatanga said by fostering collaboration, investing in technology and engaging stakeholders, government can create a trade environment that not only protects government revenues but also promotes economic growth and prosperity.
“The inter-play between trade facilitation and revenue protection is complex but not insurmountable. By fostering collaboration, investing in technology, and engaging stakeholders, among other initiatives, we can create a trade environment that not only protects government revenues but also promotes economic growth and prosperity,” he said.
New Ziana
