8 October 2014 | Comments
Customs Officers, Juliette O’Dean and Rosemond Fowler, will depart the Island today (8 October 2014) to undergo training in St Lucia on implementing St Helena’s first Automated Data System (ASYCUDA).
This web based system will improve efficiency and speed in the acceptance and clearance of cargo, import duties and other paper transactions. It also provides for the faster and more streamlined clearance of goods, and for payment online. The system allows for a one-stop gateway for HM Customs and Excise business, providing both Government and Merchants with trade figures and statistics in ‘real time’ which is invaluable for budgeting and planning.
Head of Information Technology, Jeremy Roberts and Juliette O’Dean have previously undergone their initial training in Geneva to ensure the system could be firstly installed and the initial phase of the system implemented.
Head of Customs and Port Control, Jon Holland said:
“Unlike other locations, St Helena has had the minimum of ongoing hands-on technical support when implementing ASYCUDA. The first step has been completed but we are too remote for trainers to be sent to the Island for the system to effectively progress to the next phase.
“St Helena will be moving away from the current standard international trade classification codes to the International Harmonized System codes and staff will need hands-on training to implement them as the current codes are not compatible with the ASYCUDA system – the training in St Lucia will enable this to move forward.”
Notes to Editors:
The ASYCUDA system was funded by the Department for International Development.
The system to be used on St Helena is the most up to date version of the software and was designed by a dedicated team from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
The system can be found in over 100 jurisdictions worldwide but this is the first time for it to be introduced on an Island as remote as St Helena. (NB Montserrat is smaller than St Helena and has the system).
SHG
8 October 2014
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