Trade industry bodies to gather to review ‘Customs 24x7 operation’ progress

27 May 2015 07:10 am Views - 1194

The Import Section of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is planning to line up relevant associations heads and industry experts engaged in the ‘trade’ to review the progress of ‘Customs 24x7 Operation’ and discuss ways and means of making maximum usage of the available facilities to ensure an efficient operation.

Accordingly, a forum will be held at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on May 29 to discuss on the 24x7 facilities, clear out any doubts the industry has on the new initiative, highlight the advantages of using the 24-hour operation and also discuss ways and means to tackle existing issues to make the system work in full force. The speakers at the forum will represent the Import Section of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Sri Lanka Shippers’ Council, Association of Clearing and Forwarding Agents, Sri Lanka Logistics and Freight Forwarders Association, Essential Food Commodities, Importers and Traders Association and the Ceylon Freight and Logistics Associations. The 24X7 operation of the Customs commenced on March 1, 2015 under the directions of Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake and is now moving forward with the trade trying to utilize the services to the maximum. However, the industry has to now fully focus on changing the working pattern and move forward in order to bring this initiative to the next level.