Pre-arrival processing allows speedy release of goods upon arrival

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The integration of national economies into a global system has resulted in remarkable growth in international trade. Global trade relies heavily on efficient movement of goods and services across borders. Customs is, therefore, required to provide extensive facilitation of legitimate trade while maintaining control over the international movement of goods, persons and conveyances. As we strive to provide an appropriate level of facilitation to legitimate trade, we must maintain regulatory controls in a way that reduces the impact of interventionist strategies as much as possible.

In seeking to achieve a balance between these goals, Customs has been moving away from traditional control methods. Traditionally, submission of documents for the clearance of imported goods are done after the arrival of vessels. Processing of documents by Customs and other relevant partner government agencies begins when the goods are already at the port, thereby considerably delaying the release process, as Customs and the relevant partner government agencies do not make use of the time afforded by the duration of voyage for risk assessment and declaration processing purposes. Delays experienced during the clearance process translate into increased trade costs and loss of competitiveness.