Kenya Revenue Authority has defended the new integrated Customs Management System (iCMS) despite users blaming it for cargo delays at the Port of Mombasa.
Joseph Tonui, KRA Southern Region Coordinator has assured cargo importers that the minor challenges they are facing would not obstruct the cargo clearance process.
He also mentioned that the Customs and Border Control Department is implementing what he termed as a game-changer in facilitating trade.
By this, he referred to the implementation of the iCMS as a replacement of the old Simba System.
This, he explained, will be done with the aim of sealing tax loopholes to smoothen the trade process.
The system is working to reduce cargo clearance time at the port, albeit with challenges, alongside with the Simba System.
Piloting of the system at the Port started with bulk cargo with the authority requiring importers to submit import declaration forms (IDFs), security bonds, sea manifests, exemptions and cargo declarations through iCMS.
Tonui believes that in the 2020/21 financial year, the system will be able to meet its targets by embracing the single customs territory to reduce the time used in goods clearance.
Unnecessary trade barriers and tariffs on transit goods have been reduced by this system, and has ensured faster movement of cargo to the hinterland.
According to Chief Manager in charge of Port Operations at KRA, Abdumalik Hussein, the agency is leveraging technology to seal past revenue gaps.
He also added that the use of technology and proactivity of custom officers who have been working to contain contraband trade at the Port of Mombasa has discouraged smuggling and international crimes.
