An automated cargo clearance system is set to be installed at all of Myanmar’s customs entry points by the end of 2016 in a bid to facilitate trade, the Customs Department said.
Based on Japan’s Nippon Automatic Cargo Clearance System, it will coordinate all customs and freight entry into Myanmar, eliminating direct contact between custom officials and the public, according to the department.
The development of the system, supported through grants from the Japanese government, will see the clearance capacity of Myanmar customs officials improved, U Win Than, deputy director of Myanmar Customs Department, said.
“As trade and investment are increasing, trade volumes are increasing too. By using this system we expect to save a lot of manpower,” he said.
U Win Kyaw, deputy director of the Internal Revenue Department, said the system provides a medium between customs officials and the agencies providing services regarding operational procedures when dealing with imports and exports.
He said software testing is expected to be finished by the end of 2015, in time for a 2016 introduction.
U Win Kyaw said there might be difficulties for the agencies using the system as many lack the manpower or expertise. However, in the long run the system will ultimately benefit once the software is properly understood, he said.
Vietnam’s cargo clearance system, the same model to be implemented in Myanmar, went online in May in collaboration with Japan.
