Customs to set up valuation database

PNG Customs is setting up a valuation database to identify goods that are undervalued, says chief commissioner David Towe.
Speaking during the Customs Business Consultative Forum yesterday, Towe told business houses that when the database was set up the issue of undervaluation would be addressed.
“If the value of the goods being declared doesn’t match value on our database, we will ask you to explain,” he said.
“This is part of using data and the ICT (information and communications technology) ecosystem to help in the undervaluation that we are seeing.
“The other reforms that we are trying to do is to close loopholes in the cargo clearance procedures and process.”
Towe noted that there were issues faced by businesses to clear goods at the depot process.
“The reforms are still happening and we will continue to address concerns raised by the industry and we will continue to engage.
“We are now talking to PNG Ports and ICTSI (International Container Terminal Services, Inc) to understand how we can best address the issues.
“While we have addressed some of the illegal trade and leakages that have been happening, we have also realised that in our efforts, some of our legitimate traders have also been impacted so we will continue to address that.”
Towe said there were now improvements in compliance from businesses.