MUSCAT, May 18 - Continuing its efforts in developing the logistics sector through the latest international practices to facilitate trade, the Directorate General of Customs has implemented post clearance audit of goods, aimed accelerating the movement of cargo through the Sultanate’s borders. According to Colonel Khalifa bin Ali bin Nasser al Sayabi, director General of Customs, this initiative is one of the tools used by Customs Department to facilitate the flow of goods through border crossings. “This will enhance the efficiency of customs work and the business environment in the Sultanate, which comes in the interest of the general administration of customs to strengthen its systems in line with international standards and its vision to strengthen the logistics sector in Oman”, he said.
This initiative is a proactive step towards realising the Sultanate’s commitment to the trade facilitation agreement and ambitions of the Sultanate of Oman Logistics Strategy (SOLS 2040) target of placing the country on the global map amongst the top ranks of international logistics providers.
Post Clearance Audit investigates the accuracy of customs data after a cargo has been released by consolidating the information provided by some users.
Audit results are also used to develop the risk management system according to specific scientific criteria to target dangerous goods.
Al Khattab Salim Saif al Maani, Executive Director of Oman Logistics Centre at Asyad, praised the significant steps being made by the Oman Customs in order to achieve the ambitions of the SOLS 2040.
“Trade facilitation is the cornerstone of the Oman’s developing status at the forefront of Global efficiency indicators. This initiative will undoubtedly contribute to the realization of our ambitions for the strategy”, he said
Oman’s adoption of post clearance audit in accordance with the WTO Trade facilitation agreement undoubtedly improves the business environment by reducing the duration of dwell time at border crossings, thereby boosting business and foreign investment opportunities.
The business community will enjoy the advantage of rapid release of goods and easing of customs restrictions. By harmonizing customs procedures with international best practices, the Directorate General of Customs will also be able to claim unpaid customs dues and create greater trust with the business community.
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