The government of Tanzania has proposed a new plan that will see Tanzanian importers clear their own goods at various ports across the country, without the need for the clearing and forwarding agents.
In a quick rejoinder, Tanzania Freight Forwarders Association (TAFFA) the umbrella body of clearing and forwarding agents in Tanzania has raised concerns against the proposal terming it retrogressive and only meant undermine Clearing and forwarding in Tanzania.
TAFFA seeks to reverse the government plan and has dispatched an eight-member lobby team to Tanzania’s capital Dodoma to engage and deliberate with government on the matter.
If this plan goes through, Clearing and forwarding agents are set to lose business as the proposed process will allow people to clear their goods at the Dar es Salaam Port without the need for agents.
At an emergency meeting in Dar es Salaam, TAFFA picked a team to seek audience with Parliament.
TAFFA warned that, more than 10,000 jobs will be on the line should government digs in on the plan.
Finance and Planning Minister Philip Mpango made the shock announcement while tabling the 2019/20 national budget proposals in Parliament. According to the minister, cargo in transit will not have the same exemption.
“The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) will develop a comprehensive system to enable citizens to free their cargos at a more cost-effective way and without delay,” the minister said.
“The plan is disastrous for jobs and will reduce efficiency considering that the clearing of goods at the port cannot be carried out by just any member of the public,” Said TAFFA acting President Edward Urio.
“Clearing of goods requires a person who understands the systems, and also registered.” Urio adds.
Mr. Urio said Tanzania has about 800 firms which are agents of the TRA each employing an average of five people.
Traditionally, clearing and forwarding of goods has been a preserve of customs agents. With recent developments, the onus is now on the cargo owner to decide whether to clear their goods or employ the services of a customs agent. FEAFFA has been involved in strengthening capacities of customs agents to enhance the quality of their services in order to remain the obvious choice for cargo owners.
FEAFFA is the regional apex body of clearing and forwarding agents representing over 2500 clearing firms within the East African region.
Source: FEAFFA Editorial Team
Email: editorial@feaffa.com
