BOC: be listed before July 31

CEBU, Philippines - The Bureau of Customs reminded importers and brokers to comply with the deadline for accreditation on or before July 31, 2014, otherwise they will no longer be able to import and transact business with the bureau.

Customs Commissioner John Sevilla, in a statement, said July 31 is already an extension from the original June 30 deadline.

“It is highly unlikely that there will be another extension, as we have already given brokers and importers ample time to understand the new policies on accreditation and complete the prerequisite documents,” said Sevilla.

According to Sevilla, based on the tally made by the BOC-Account Management Office, out of the 14,995 accredited brokers and importers, only 34% or 5,039 have applied for accreditation as of this month.

All brokers and importers who would like to import goods into the Philippines must be accredited with BOC, allowing them to be registered in its Client Profile Registration System that will enable them to file import entries.

The statement added that the new rules of accreditation aim to close the loopholes in importation procedures as part of the government’s efforts to stop various smuggling activities.  (FREEMAN)