NBR, BEPZA set up interlink to prevent duty evasion

Staff Reporter :
The National Board of Revenue (NBR) and Bangladesh Export Processing Zone Authority (BEPZA) set up interconnection through Asycuda World System to prevent smuggling and duty evasion in the import-export process.
With the interconnection, it will be easier to exchange information and to monitor export-import activities, according to letter issued on Thursday.
The letter also said that it would also help to scrutinise closely all the crimes related to smuggling and duty evasion in the international trade process.
Earlier, the import permit (IP) or export permit (EP) related information of the BEPZA was verified by logging into the BEPZA’s system. The process of submitting bill
of entry through the use of BEPZA’s IP started in September last year.
But with the interconnection, no customs clearance activities can be completed without storing the information related to the BEPZA’s IP in the Asycuda World System.
Necessary trainings will be provided for the concern stockholders to run the system smoothly, the letter said.
NBR officials said the aim of the system to system interlink between two the government agencies to extend cooperation as most of the raw materials of the export-oriented industries are imported by business firms, that are located in the BEPZA area.
Some cases, the firms misuse the duty-free facilities by retailing the raw materials in open markets, the officials said.
But, the inter-link will help to bring the businesses under transparency and will reduce time as well as prevent duty evasion, the officials said.