As Customs moves from a gate keeping to a risk management role, it’s clear that one size does not fit all, says executive Customs modernisation, Intikhab Shaik. Speaking at the unveiling last week of Customs’ modernisation programme, Shaik spelt out some of the elements of the new-style compliance approach and its benefits for every link in the supply chain. “At Customs it’s about control – and not about controlling the paper but rather the risk that comes into and leaves our shores. But until you digitise the paper-based data there’s no way you can manage it.” While the modernisation process will be introduced in phases, there are several key elements that need to be put in place to achieve its objective. Top of the list is the trusted trader programme. “10% of the traders provide 90% by value of all import declarations that are submitted and 80% by value of all export declarations. “If we could reach a collaborative approach with those traders and make sure we are working well together, we will deliver on the service aspect. And we have also realised that there must be some form of segmentation – one size does not fit all. “The trusted trader must receive differentiated service and process and in that way we will have more time to focus on non compliant traders.” Second priority is the customs inspection process. “It’s a long drawn out process and it’s not impossible to make it simple. One of the problems is that it’s entirely paper- based. “In order to make inspections more efficient we will introduce electronic case management workflow – from the time cargo is stopped until it is released it will be electronic. And submission of supporting documents will also be electronic.” A similar facility has been introduced on the tax side, and this is working particularly well, says Shaik. A ‘dashboard’ that tracks the status of the cargo step by step and can provide instant feedback on the status of the customer’s cargo is also on the cards, while the contact centre concept will bring additional benefits. “We have contact centres on the tax side which we believe will be helpful to traders as well.” Customs will also be introducing ‘Centres of Excellence’, comprising specialists in the areas of tariff, valuation and origin, which will also operate independently of ports of entry.
