CUSTOMS Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the validity of importer accreditations will be extended to three years from one, which he billed as an anti-corruption measure.
“We are committed to making the accreditation process more efficient for importers while upholding transparency and accountability in our operations,” Mr. Nepomuceno said.
The Bureau of Customs (BoC) said the validity extension updates Customs Administrative Order (CAO) No. 07-2022.
The BoC said it is currently reviewing the CAO draft amendment with its legal team to ensure the changes are legally compliant.
“By streamlining procedures and reducing opportunities for discretion, these reforms will help deter corruption and promote a more honest and service-oriented Bureau of Customs,” he said.
The goal is also to reduce the administrative burden on importers and to simplify the process, allowing them to focus more on their operations rather than annual renewals.
Another amendment includes the adjustment of the accreditation processing fee to P5,000 from P2,000.
“Additionally, the application form will be updated to include additional fields, ensuring more accurate data collection and improving compliance monitoring,” the BoC said.
Importers will also be required to submit an annual report 30 days before the anniversary of their accreditation, summarizing any updates to business documents or information. — Aubrey Rose A. Inosante