The National Revenue Authority (NRA) Commissioner General who just returned home with her team from Brussels attending the World Customs Conference has said that they are going to change from (Automated System for Customs Data) ASSYCUDA++ to ASSYCUDA World, which she said is advanced and easy to use by all importers.
Commissioner General Haja Kala Kamara said now that internet has improved or will continue to improve the country, ASYCUDA World is appropriate because with it importers don’t need any code from NRA, but just to log in with any internet device from any where they find themselves.
She said she led a five man team to Brussels for the World Customs Conference that took place from 12th to 16th July. She said the theme for this year was Global Security and Protection of Information Technology.
“The recent development in global security around the world, citizens moving from trade, enhanced revenue on to security to protect border areas and discourage the illegal importation of banned substances.”
Haja Kalla Kamara said during the conference it was agreed that customs has a bigger role to play if the world should be safe from terrorists. She said customs officials at border posts, the airport and seaport are the first port of call to meet with foreigners and these terrorists.
“Customs officials must endeavour to use all available skills to deter people from moving these things around the countries.”
Talking on the second part of the theme, which is Information Technology (IT) she said Digital Customs Progressive Engagement meeting emphasised the need to promote trade, enhanced revenue and security.
The Commissioner General said they urged member nations to capacitate institutions and personnel in the area of Information Technology.
Madam Haja Kalla Kamara said she had the opportunity to meet with the Director General of World Customs and she said they discussed a whole range of topics including capacitating the human resource, building risk management support and revenue generation strategies as well as post clearance audit.
“This bi-lateral meeting between the Director General of World Customs Mr. Kunio Mikuriya and me was very fruitful and all the advice I got from him will be implemented to make NRA more viable and effective in meeting our target, taking care of our human resource and to continue to improve the working conditions and digital communications.”
Friday July 22, 2016
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