The government will further improve efficiency of Customs clearance to solve the difficulties for both exporters and importers to remove their burdens and enhance their motivation and vitality, officials said on July 22. To minimize and offset export-oriented firms’ financial losses caused by COVID-19 and the world’s weak demand for goods, Customs authorities have vigorously shortened the overall Customs clearance time for both imported and exported goods. They have also promoted “advance declaration” to diversify their services, said Dang Yingjie, deputy director-general of the National Office of Port Administration at the General Administration of Customs.

 

In response to the global pandemic, she said the GAC has strengthened the monitoring of port clearance times to mitigate the impact of the contagion on the overall Customs clearance time. Monitored by the GAC, the overall Customs clearance time for imports across the country was 39.66 hours in June, while the time for exports was 2.28 hours, a significant reduction of 59 percent and 81 percent respectively from 2017. Customs will utilize the internet to ensure the stable and efficient operation of the information system, she added.

 

This will help companies resolve issues in both exports and imports, as well as encourage more companies from economies related to the Belt and Road Initiative to join the AEO certification program. The program was advocated by the World Customs Organization to strengthen international supply chain security and facilitate the movement of legitimate goods. Under the program, Customs from various regions form partnerships with industry to collaboratively reduce barriers to Customs procedures in order to enhance international trade efficiency. Covering 48 countries and regions, China has signed most AEO agreements in the world to facilitate Customs clearance for companies.