Customs

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) hosted a WCO Revenue Package national workshop from 06 to 10 July 2015 in Maseru with the aim of continuing preparations for the implementation of an advance ruling system for classification and origin, as required under the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement.

The representatives of the WCO focused on the importance of a well-organised classification and origin infrastructure as well as well-defined and effective classification and origin practices before introducing the advance ruling system.

Presentations were made on the theoretical and practical understanding and implementation of new WCO materials developed under the WCO Revenue Package Phase II, such as the Guidelines on Customs Infrastructure for Tariff Classification, Origin and Valuation and the Technical Guidelines on Advance Rulings for Classification, Origin and Valuation.

Fifteen senior and mid-level managers participated actively in the discussions and used the WCO Diagnostic Tool on Tariff Classification, Valuation and Origin Work and Related Infrastructure to assess the current situation and to identify areas for attention. As a result, a number of action points in relation to an advance ruling system, such as requirements for the legislative framework, procedures, rulings database and record keeping were suggested. Compliance management, the procedure for dispute settlement and capacity building for LRA staff, traders and clearing agents was also considered.

Being a member of the South African Customs Union (Sacu), a consultation forum with other Sacu countries to improve the work at regional level and the establishment of a customs laboratory at national level, a regional (Sacu) laboratory, or using a private laboratory were also given attention.

The Commissioner General, Mr. T. Letjama, and the Commissioner of Customs, Ms. M.N. Lepholisa, both emphasised that LRA was committed to meeting its international obligations and they thanked the WCO for its continued support. The advance ruling system would be included in the annual plan and full attention would be given to the project.

The Secretariat will continue its support in this respect.