Expert calls for e linking of govt departments

(MENAFN- Arab News) A round-the-clock service at the customs department and electronic linking of departments will make the Kingdom's ports distinct in the world said Saad Al-Harbi director general of Value and Origin Department at the Saudi Customs.
'If various departments are linked electronically the period for clearance could be minimized to one day instead of the current 14-day period' he said during a workshop entitled 'Ways to attract international shipping lines to the Kingdom's ports.'
Al-Harbi called on importers to quickly claim the empty containers and avoid fines. He also appealed to them not to import a variety of goods stored in one container and to transport food items medicines and pharmaceuticals inside cool or isolated containers.
He stressed the need to separate the customs operations from other operational and supporting works on the port's premises.
Al-Harbi said the customs department works with all government and private bodies toward facilitating the procedures via the distinguished automated link to shorten the time needed to complete such procedures.
'The Kingdom implemented automated links with neighboring countries including the Gulf states and Jordan for speedy completion of customs procedures' he said.
Referring to the development procedures he said the department recently applied one-window projects where clearance personnel can end all the necessary procedures without having to move from one place to another.
He confirmed the department applies the integrated tariff system which covers about 500000 items.
'We are working to realize a quantum leap in the customs work. The department already uses modern devices that shorten the time needed to complete the procedures. We have in place 123 fixed and moveable devices for containers and 86 screening devices to detect radioactive materials' said Al-Harbi.
Commenting on the fines imposed on goods and shipping companies he said: 'Such fines are imposed to control the course of operations. They are mainly imposed on prohibited and fake goods or items without clearance permits.' Regarding the fees and wages Al-Harbi said the department charges SR50-500 for cleaning SR150 for additional documents SR40-500 for amending data and SR100-1000 for damages.
The Bathaa border outlet received in 2014 more than 297000 trucks an average of 800 trucks a day he added.
Ihab Al-Jasser chairman of the shipping committee said the Saudi shipping sector is considered one of the most important transport sectors in the Middle East. 'The sector plays a key role in creating employment opportunities.'