Last Updated on September 4, 2020, 5:16 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Cargo reporters in St. Kitts and Nevis and other CARICOM states who use the Advance Cargo Information System (ACIS) would do so at limited cost.
The system would also be beneficial to the cargo reporters as it would increase the efficiency and improve the quality assurance.
Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris, Prime Minister and Minister with responsibility for Customs, said that it is being anticipated that the proposed Advance Cargo Information system will come at no significant cost to the cargo reporters.
He added that the Cargo reporters would be able to access the system by using a secure web page and they would not require specialization.
Prime Minister Harris also noted that there are additional benefits which are to be derived from the ACIS.
The Prime Minister added that Cargo reporters, consumers and businesses would benefit from the improved facilitation of legitimate cargo. The Government is attempting to ensure that only legitimate cargos enter the territorial space of St. Kitts and Nevis.
He added that this improvement would flow from the expected increase in the efficiency of cargo reporting by having one system for submissions for multiple jurisdictions.
So, once you enter one, then you need not enter for each destination where you would go.
Dr Harris also reflected on the connection between the World Customs Organization and the ACIS.
Dr Harris continued by saying that the Advance Cargo Information System forms an essential part of the SAFE Framework of Standards of the World Customs Organization and hence, assists the participating countries in harmonizing and standardizing their electronic cargo information all in support of the regional as well as the international trade.
The Prime Minister also said that access to regional and international intelligence database which would be provided by the IMPACS, through the receipt of real-time notification and pre-alerts improves the sharing of information between Customs Departments all over.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
