EAC commissioners evaluate Single Customs Territory performance

PIC: Dicksons Kateshumbwa and Trademark East Africa CEO Frank Matsaert shake hands at the unveiling of the one-stop border point between Uganda and Kenya at Busia. (Courtesy photo)

BUSINESS

MOMBASA - The region's commissioners of customs, together with the heads of standards bureaus, port authorities and the East African Community (EAC) have undertaken an evaluation mission at the ports of Mombasa and Dar-es[-Salaam.

They met to review the performance of the Single Customs Territory and also discuss issues related to the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) procedures.

The Monday meeting in Mombasa was chaired by Uganda's commissioner for customs Dicksons Kateshumbwa and included a walk-through of procedures at Mombasa port to establish points on delays and recommend the way forward.

It was attended by among others Kenneth Bagamuhunda, the director general customs and trade at the EAC, Kenya Ports Authority Officers and other customs commissioners and officials in the region.

It was noted that despite the achievements registered under the Single Customs Territory in the region, there are still challenges that need to be sorted.

Such challenges include reducing system connectivity issues, implementing fully the mutual recognition of clearing agents to access the ports and reducing delays in lifting cargo from the port.

The commissioners also interfaced with Kenya Railways officials and discussed the recent directive on usage of THE SGR.

They recommended the need for enhanced consultations within the region on issues of SGR cargo clearance to ensure buy-in and support within the region.

The commissioners directed the EAC secretariat and the customs technical officials at the port to validate and update railway  clearance procedures earlier developed under the Single Customs Territory to incorporate SGR  operations and Nairobi ICD within one week so as to commence sensitisation of the business community.

They also advised Kenya Railways to undertake stakeholder engagements on SGR and ensure they present an attractive value proposition that meets business expectations on reduced costs and time.

The commissioners and other officials were set to proceed to Dar-es-Salaam port to further discuss the outstanding issues related to the Single Customs Territory on the central corridor.

Meanwhile, Uganda is due to host the World Customs Organisation (WCO) global conference from March 14 until 16.