Customs Bill needed to further systematize customs procedures: Finance Minister

Kathmandu, June 25: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Bishnu Prasad Paudel, has said the need for a new Customs Act was realised to further systematise the customs procedures and enhance accountability, with the aim of facilitating safe and efficient international trade.     

During the discussions in principle on the Bill drafted to amend and integrate laws relating to the customs in a meeting of the Committee for Legislation Management, National Assembly (NA) today, he stressed the need for increasing efficiency in the customs collections and contributing to the economic development of the country.     

Minister Paudel assured that the bill aims to protect domestic industries, promote exports, and attract foreign direct investment by simplifying customs procedures and making them more technology-friendly.     

According to the Minister, the customs-related laws had to be amended to facilitate legitimate trade and effectively discourage illegal trade.     

Stating that the Bill incorporates some new provisions and revisions, Finance Minister Paudel said it includes the duties, responsibilities, and powers of the chief customs officer and customs officer.     

Prior to this, the Bill was discussed in the Finance Committee of the House of Representatives and was sent to the National Assembly along with suggestions and messages.     

Committee Chairperson Tulasha Kumari Dahal said the Committee receives the Bill, a comprehensive one, so late when only five days remain to end the deadline for its response to the document. It is a challenge for the committee, she added.     

The Bill has proposed to amendment and integrate 154 clauses while 21 members of the National Assembly have sought amendments to 133 points. The Finance Committee's submissions are concerned with 88 points.(RSS)