PNG Customs Service Chief Commissioner David Towe stressed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to trade facilitation and border protection during his presentation at the 2024 Business Regulators Summit, Session four on July 31.
Addressing a diverse audience that included regulatory agency leaders, private sector representatives, NGOs, and media, Towe delivered a presentation with the topic: “Trade Facilitation Connectivity (at the border)” on the pivotal roles and strategic priorities of the Phoenix Customs Service.
He explained: "Phoenix Customs Service is mandated through the Customs Service Act to be one of the premier border security agencies of government.”
“This allows us to control and manage the border, protecting the community from dangerous imports, facilitating international trade, and supporting government funding through revenue collection."
The three primary functions of PNG Customs are border and community protection, trade facilitation, and revenue collection.
Towe highlighted the comprehensive legal framework empowering PNG Customs, including the Public Customs Service Act of 2014, the Customs Act of 1951, and the Customs Tariff Act, which classifies goods and applies relevant taxes.
He underscored the complexity of managing approximately 824 land borders shared with Indonesia and 5,152 kilometers of water, along with operations across 23 ports and a robust air system.
Corporate Plan and International Best Practices
On the agency's strategic priorities, Towe introduced the recently launched Customs Strategic Plan 2024-2028 and the Customs Roadmap for Reform and Organization 2024-2028.
These plans aim to adapt to the evolving global environment, ensuring continued delivery of results. "We have to reform our organization to remain viable and relevant," he stated.
He also stressed the importance of aligning with international best practices, citing the agency's compliance with standards from the World Customs Organization and the World Trade Organization.
"We ensure that our systems and procedures are relevant for business operations, facilitating seamless and efficient flow of goods and people across the border," Towe explained.
Technological Advancements and Trade Facilitation
One of the highlights of Towe's presentation was the development of the electronic single-window platform in collaboration with the National Trade Office (NTO). This platform aims to streamline trade-related processes, reducing the need for traders to navigate multiple agencies.
"We have identified 56 different trade-related processes spread across 26 entities. The single-window platform will automate these processes, making it easier for traders to obtain permits and licenses online," Towe said.
He also mentioned the implementation of advanced technologies like container scanning equipment and risk-based intelligence-led interventions to enhance border security and trade facilitation.
"We use the Asycuda World system to apply risk management principles, targeting high-risk cargo while ensuring 90% of goods pass without customs intervention," Towe noted.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Directions
Towe commended the collaborative efforts of the National Trade Office, ICT department, and other entities involved for the single-window platform.
"This transformative project will make trade easier and the flow of goods across the border much simpler. I encourage all stakeholders to get on board and support this initiative," he said.
Towe reiterated the importance of continuous improvement and adaptation in customs operations. "We are taking steps in the right direction, and I am excited about the future of PNG Customs.”
