Traders can now expect easier ways of doing business. The finance ministry has developed a web-based application system to this effect. The electronic Customs Management System or eCMS, which is currently in its pilot phase, is expected to ease customs procedures and reduce clearance processes to boost trade. It will benefit exporters, importers, and business entities alike.
The Department of Revenue and Customs initiated the project in collaboration with the Royal Monetary Authority, banks, airlines, traders, the police and the Clearing & Forwarding Agents.
According to the DRC, with the implementation of the system, traders can process customs clearance and make payments online. This is expected to reduce associated costs and ensure a smoother and more efficient trade environment.
“The hassle of using that system is considering that it is a client-based system. People are required to come to the customs area, let’s say, if they are clearing their goods in Phuentshogling, they are supposed to go all the way to Phuentshogling to clear their goods, which is a waste of time and an addition to their business cost. So, with all these problems, we wanted to facilitate trade and DRC has initiated coming up with a web-based system,” said Selden, Project Manager, eCMS.
She added that eCMS will be implemented across all eight Regional Revenue and Customs Offices in Bhutan to ensure it benefits businesses and citizens throughout the country. The system enables efficient coordination with Cross Border Regulatory Agencies (CBRAs), fostering improved control and monitoring at the borders.
The DRC issued a notification in April asking individuals and businesses wishing to export, import or transit goods across borders to submit their declaration electronically through eCMS.
The implementation of eCMS is also expected to increase the collection of taxes and duties, address tax leakage and minimise the risk of fraudulent practices.
However, the system is currently challenged with network connectivity issues.
“Unfortunately, during piloting, we have had a lot of connectivity issues. We are in the process of discussing with the GovTech agency and they have sent teams to the regions to look into all the connectivity issues. They are still working on it. It has not been resolved yet. So, the team will be working on it with DRC and customs at the borders to improve the connectivity issues before we launch the system,” added the project manager.
DRC plans to implement eCMS latest by early next month.
Karma Samten Wangda & Tashi Yangden
Edited by Phub Gyem
