Secretary of the Internal Resources Division and Chairman of the National Board of Revenue (NBR), Md Abdur Rahman Khan, has said that the NBR is closely monitoring to ensure that traders can conduct their businesses with ease. He stressed that customs officials must adopt a service-oriented mindset to facilitate smoother import-export operations.

“Instructions have been given to ensure faster clearance of goods by providing necessary support to traders,” he said while speaking to journalists on Tuesday afternoon after a meeting with customs officials at the Benapole Customs House auditorium.

He added that the standard of service at customs needs to be improved further. “We will strictly monitor why the clearance process is delayed. Soon, we plan to replace the ASYCUDA system with a more efficient alternative,” he said.

Acknowledging that server issues at customs houses are a nationwide problem, the NBR Chairman noted that a new system is being introduced to address the issue. “When traders are given proper support, the number of complaints naturally decreases. That’s where we are focusing our attention.”

Responding to demands from the business community, he said the government will consider allowing the import of yarn through land ports if traders request it.

Earlier, upon his arrival at the Benapole Customs House, the chairman was welcomed by Customs Commissioner Kamruzzaman and newly appointed Commissioner Khalid Mohammad Abu Hossain.

Later, he visited the cargo vehicle terminal and immigration checkpoint at Benapole Land Port. During the visit, he assured that steps would be taken to resolve the problems currently affecting import-export activities.

NBR members Mobinul Kabir (Customs) and Moazzem Hossain (Administration) accompanied the chairman on the visit.

Following this, the NBR chief held a discussion with leaders of the Benapole C&F Agents Association. He listened attentively to their concerns and assured them that necessary steps would be taken to resolve the issues.