Exporters' pre-registration with BOC, auto debit payment also eyed under draft CMO
There is no need for a new set of rules for the electronic processing of export declarations, according to the Export Development Council (EDC).
In a recent letter to Customs commissioner Angelito Alvarez, Trade Secretary and EDC chair Gregory Domingo said the e-processing of export declarations – scheduled for implementation as early as next month – should be patterned after the Import Assessment System (IAS), considering the framework is similar.
"The Council recommends that the draft CMO (Customs Memorandum Order) on AEDS (Automated Export Declaration System) be patterned after CMO 27-2009, (covering the) implementation of e2m (electronic-to-mobile) customs system," Domingo said.
Under the draft CMO submitted by EDC to the BOC, the electronic lodgment of export declarations will require exporters to pre-register under the Client Profile Registration System, and settle accounts via automatic debit payment or the Payment Abstract Secure System v. 5 (PASS5). Export shipments will also have to go through the customs selectivity criteria (green, yellow and red lanes). Under the IAS, these rules also apply.
"Further, the Council recommends the inclusion of other alternative electronic payment system in the current PASS5 e.g., ATM/Debit Card, Credit Card for the payment of duties, taxes, and documentary stamp tax to prevent delays in processing and loading. This will also help in the smooth migration towards the new system," Domingo said.
The current PASS5 is restricted to accounts opened by importers with BOC-authorized agent banks.
The first draft of the CMO, submitted by value-added service provider E-Konek Pilipinas, effectively limits the choice of the VASP to E-Konek, a practice currently observed at Subic Bay. This draft has since been rejected.
