Customs Takes Over DICs Job

Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) will from September 1, 2015 begin the implementation of the National Single Window system.

The system will serve as a common platform for stakeholders to process their documents to facilitate trade and reduce the cost and time in import, export and transit trade.

Under the Single Window, Customs will take over the classification and valuation function which is currently being handled by the Destinations and Inspection Companies (DICs).


Kuudamnuru John Vianney, Acting Commissioner-Customs Division, GRA, who was speaking at the press conference, said his outfit is rolling out an enhanced system that seeks to address the current challenges and bottlenecks in the electronic-clearance system.

He said the process will involve the issuance of electronic Customs Classification and Valuation Reports (CCVRs) that will replace the current Final Classification and Valuation Report (FCVR) issued by the DICs.


Mr Vianney debunked the assertion that the Customs Division is not ready to take over the DICs job, stating, “We have been ready since 2009 to resume the performance of our core functions of classification, valuation and risk management.”

As part of efforts to resume the core functions of classification and valuation, he said the Customs Division has put up a four-storey ultra-modern complex, acquired and installed relevant logistics and selected and re-oriented staff for the Customs Technical Services Bureau.

Mr Vianney said managers and supervisors had been appointed to promote governance, adding that technical interface with major stakeholders is also ongoing, including test-runs.

“It is worth noting that the system was specifically designed to take account of the people (users and operators-all stakeholders and strategic partners), the processes (process enhancement to minimise processing time, reduce cost and improve compliance), the platform (a user-friendly open system that can be accessed anytime, anywhere using any device and clearly defined policy guidelines), governance, legal environment and import guidelines, among others,” he said.

George Blankson, Commissioner-General, GRA, said the transition from DICs to a customs-owned and operated classification and valuation system is a mega trend, stating, “whereas we know that system changes of this national scale will go without some teething issues, we are solidly prepared with our contingency plans to ensure a seamless as well as hitch-free transition as possible.”