News

Press Release

Release Date: 31/12/02

Import Monitoring Programme Begins

All is in place for the start of the Bureau's Import Monitoring Programme which commences Friday January 3rd, 2003. 

Over the last few months of 2002 the Bureau, the Chamber of Commerce and the Customs & Excise Department have been finalizing arrangements for the smooth implementation of the much anticipated programme, through which items imported into the island for retail purposes will be monitored for quality, safety and labeling. 

The organizations have settled on a programme which will benefit all parties, without adding unnecessary layers or delays to the customs clearance process. The new procedure requires that importers of products covered by all the compulsory standards submit invoices for their products and the supporting customs declaration form to the Bureau for vetting. A flat fee per container or entry submitted will be in place from February 1st, 2003, to support the full implementation of the programme for the protection of the health and safety of all consumers. This will include active market surveillance of products through inspections, testing and other verification measures.

Much of the paperwork involved in the process will be handled internally by the Bureau’s staff at the new Import Monitoring Booth located at the customs department in Castries. Similar facilities are expected to be set up at all ports of entry on the island.