ROADTOWN Tortola BVI, January 21st, 2013 -- “Keeping our Borders Safer and Smarter through Technological Innovation,” is the theme for this year’s annual celebration of Customs Week from January 27 to February 1 as the department continues to implement measures to keep the Territory’s border secured.
Speaking with the Department of Information and Public Relations, HM Customs Commissioner Mr. Wade Smith said, “This year’s theme was selected by the department based on initiatives undertaken to secure the Territory’s borders in a more efficient and effective manner through utilising new technology to aid in the enforcement of our legislations.”
Mr. Smith indicated that, “A major border security tool for our organisation is the use of the Regional Clearance System (RCS) which is now in its pilot stage of upgrade to Sail Clear to provide yachties and other vessel operators the convenience to pre-arrival notification hence reducing the normal processing time.”
Other technological initiatives are the Customs Automated Processing System (CAPS); software that allows for data to be entered electronically, the Harmonised Commodity Description and Coding System (HS); a systematic classification and uniformed coding of all goods found in international trade.
Additionally, the HMC-12 Form which is the new Trader Declaration Form designed to modernise and expedite cargo clearance and revenue collection through electronic submission which may be done from the comfort of your home or business.
The Customs Department is inviting the public to participate in the information sharing activities which are designed to apprise all stakeholders of the very important role HM Customs Department plays in the development of the Territory.
HM Customs have planned a full week of activities which will kick off with a church service at the Jost Van Dyke Methodist Church at 10 am followed by a luncheon at White Bay Beach Restaurant. On the evenings of Monday, January 28 and Tuesday, January 29 officers will participate in various games including basketball and domino tournaments, respectively.
The highlight of the week will be an Appreciation Dinner on Wednesday, January 30. The week’s activities will conclude with a movie night at UP’s Cineplex on Thursday, January 31 and an Open House on Friday, February 1 at HM Customs Headquarters in Road Town beginning from 10am to 4pm.
HM Customs is charged with the responsibility to safeguard the well-being and security of the Territory by facilitating legitimate trade, enforcing import and export regulations and conducting covert and overt surveillance of the Territory’s waters.
*************************
DISCLAIMER
This article was posted in its entirety as received by SKNVibes.com. This media house does not correct any spelling or grammatical error within press releases and commentaries. The views expressed therein are not necessarily those of SKNVibes.com, its sponsors or advertisers
British Virgin Islands News