Minister of Finance Dr. Youssef Boutros Ghali is to issue new facilities among within customs regulations in efforts to streamline activities at outlets and to encourage a surge in both commercial and...

Minister of Finance Dr. Youssef Boutros Ghali is to issue new facilities among within customs regulations in efforts to streamline activities at outlets and to encourage a surge in both commercial and industrial operations. Dr. Ghali announced that foremost among the amendments is immediate release of imports while customs fees are to be paid within one week of the following month to the release particularly in connection with special imports related to commercial enterprises and not to personal uses.  The announcement provides that importers who stand to benefit should have bank accounts along with a letter of guarantee for their respective purposes.  The new system is an effort to speed up the entry of imports and therefore reduce costs on consumer goods by reducing the cost on storage at ports and outlets where storage of goods will not exceed 24 hours.  The unified outlets along with reduced fees and internet dealings are all efforts to streamline the work process. ‏ On the other hand, Dr. Ghali has approved the new structure for the new customs authority which has begun operation allowing more flexibility in the decision making process among officials thereby paving the way for decentralization.  The new system herald a new beginning of delayed follow up in efforts to speed up reform in the commercial arena. Head of the customs authority Galal Abul Fetouh has said the new entity will include a central operations unit to be managed by seven heads of sectors and who will be the focal point in the running of the departments.  The managers have been versed in excellent training mechanisms.  The managers will be foremost in undertaking the endeavor of their own self evaluation on a regular basis and setting plans to improve the performance of employees. (source :Al-ahram)