Nepal customs towards modernization
It is acknowledged usually that modernization of customs administration should concentrate on a set of measures viz. putting into place transparent legislation, adopting simple and modern procedures, developing effective post release review, use of information technology, introducing effective forms of organization and management with clear objective, strategic and operational plans, performance criteria and management, and strategies for integrity, orientation of the institution toward service. Nepal customs is also heading towards modernization to the tune of development and changing role of customs in the international arena. Towards this end, Customs Reform and Modernization Plan (2003-06) was implemented as a first step. The plan demonstrated sound effects in the process of modernization. In order to continue the activities and achieve the goals of modernization the second phase of Customs Reform and Modernization Plan (2006-09) is being implemented. The Second Phase of Customs Reform and Modernization Plan (CRMP) has concentrated mainly on:
- Strengthening of Valuation Systems
- Simplification of the Customs Procedures
- Customs Automation and Modernization
- Risk Management
- Physical Facilities Reform
- Customs Integrity and Administrative Reform
- Human Resource Development
- Simplification of Passenger Clearance
Following activities are being carried out to achieve the stated activities of CRMP till July 2008:
- Access to international price index and disseminate it to the customs offices regularly.
- Organized Valuation Seminars at Regional Level and Central Level two each to implement integrated valuation system
- Conducted Post Clearance Audit (PCA)
- Valuation Data Base Software Developed
- Finalized Valuation and Post Clearance Audit (PCA) Hand Book
- Declaration Processing Path adopted in major customs offices
- Arrangement to establish mini laboratories in Birgunj, Biratnagar and Bhairahawa custom points completed
- Integrated Customs Tariff Book including the rates under SAFTA agreement developed and implemented
- Study being held to reduce the documents to be submitted at the time of customs clearance and developed SOP to simplify the Customs Procedures
- Trade facilitation committee formed in major customs offices and doing its job
- Connection of Wide Area Network (WAN) five major customs offices are under test
- ASYCUDA Accounting Module
- ASYCUDA Post Entry Module implemented partially
- Passenger Clearance software developed for TIA
- Integrated Declaration Form developed in TIA
