The National Board of Revenue (NBR) on Thursday asked all customs houses and relevant departments to remain open on today (Friday) and tomorrow
(Saturday), reports UNB.
In an office order it said that country's import and export activities have faced disruptions over the past few days due to the slowness of the ASYCUDA World System, a key digital platform used for customs processing.
In view of the situation, relevant authorities have called for urgent steps to ensure uninterrupted trade operations, especially as the weekend approaches.
To mitigate the impact and maintain the momentum of import-export activities, instructions have been issued to keep operations running during the weekly holidays on July 11 and July 12.
Officials said that the temporary slowdown of the automated customs clearance system has caused delays in the processing of goods at key customs points.
The NBR, in coordination with other agencies, has moved to address the technical glitches and streamline clearance procedures as quickly as possible.
Concerned departments have been asked to make necessary manpower and logistical arrangements to keep customs and related services active during the weekend to minimize trade disruption.
Meanwhile another report adds: National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan on Thursday directed customs officials at Pangaon Customs House to expedite the clearance of imported goods through modern risk management systems and ensure strict compliance with laws and regulations.
"Customs Houses are the centre of trade facilitation," the NBR chief said during his visit to the Pangaon Customs House in Dhaka.
He urged officials to focus on core revenue collection activities, including rapid goods clearance under risk-based management, enforcement, automation, compliance with import policy orders, reduction of legal cases, and enhanced arrears collection.
The chairman observed physical inspection procedures at the container yard and reviewed automated assessment operations in the assessment room. He interacted with officials and staff to assess the performance of ongoing customs activities.
During a meeting with customs officials, port authorities, importers, and clearing and forwarding (C&F) agents, the NBR chairman emphasised prompt disposal of perishable goods and pending auction items through an expedited auction process.
Customs House Commissioner Mia Md Abu Obaida reported that since June 23, 100% of revenue has been deposited into the government treasury through the automated a-challan system, a move lauded by the NBR chief.
Khan praised the customs officials for their dedication but reminded them to maintain consistent focus on national interests. He issued directives to accelerate case disposal and strengthen Post Clearance Audit (PCA) processes in line with international practices.
He reiterated that the Revenue Department is one of the most vital organs of the state, and inefficiencies in this sector could result in substantial losses for the country. "In today's globalised world, enhancing operational efficiency is essential to compete with developed nations," he added.
The NBR chairman concluded his visit by expressing satisfaction over the activities at Pangaon Customs House and instructed all staff to uphold professionalism, compliance, and a service-oriented approach.
