Chief Customs Officer Ali Zubair has said the newly introduced procedure of advance rulings will enable business to develop trust in Maldives Customs Service.
Speaking on a programme aired on PSM News, Zubair said Maldives Customs is continuously working to provide easier methods for import export businesses. He further said the institution is continuously working on approaches to clear the cargo imported swiftly. He noted slow clearances result in extra charges for businesses, a method has been designed in a manner that requires fast and smooth clearance practices.
The advance ruling system introduced is expected to increase the speed of cargo clearance process, building trust between customs authority and importers and exporters. The system also allows for greater transparency as the customs duty rates and dates of clearance is visible to businesses.
Maldives Customs service will also provide businesses customs duty information on stocks before the goods arrive to Maldives and even before they are purchased. Customs informed exporters and importers as well as their representatives can apply for the free service.
With the introduction of Advance rulings, customs will communicate the origin, duty rates and classification of goods in advance.