Risk management procedures in the Customs Department : a survey conducted by means if questionnaires and interviews

Abstract

Trade facilitation and reduction in the cargo release cycle time at the Customs Department could only be achieved through Risk Management procedures. But the revenue generating importance of Customs delayed considerably their introduction. A window of opportunity presented itself, with the change in the tax regime and introduction of VAT in 1995. This study auns to identify where Risk Management procedures have succeeded in producing the desired results, and examine any shortcomings which could not be foreseen at the time of their introduction. Information was gathered by means of questionnaires addressed to Customs Officers and stakeholders as well as through interviews with Heads of Sections and 'intelligence' officers. Data collected show that Risk Management has been instrumental in improving the cargo release cycle time. On the other hand Customs personnel and stakeholders complained of lack of consultation. Staff training and supervision were also found to be rather deficient. Rotation of staff should be undertaken in a more structured manner involving assessment of personnel and consultation with Heads of Sections. Communication between sections, leave much to be desired and efforts should be made to improve the situation. It was also found fitting to recommend that a commission should be appointed to evaluate the Risk Management systems now in place.