By Binta Jaiteh
The Association of Customs Clearing and Forwarding Agents (ACCFA) has lamented over its main problem which is identified as late payment of cash by shipping companies that duck at the sea ports in Banjul.
The association made the complaint during its annual general meeting which saw the retirement of its president Sulayman Joof after years of service.
Speaking at the meeting, Sulayman Joof retired said despite huge challenges facing the association they are still able to work to provide excellent service to the public in terms of transportation.
He reiterated that the cost of shipping and procedures of deposit are the main challenges, as deposit will be delayed at some points when customers are in need of their goods.
“The ultimate goal of the association is to bring its members together and make sure members are well informed about trade laws and also to make sure members are able to do their work properly in accordance with the custom act,” he said.
He added to it that “one of the ways to tackle those challenges is to sign an MOU with the Gambia Revenue Authority and cost of the clearance of goods both imports and exports transits are the responsibility of the custom agents which was in an act of the parliament in 2010.”
Modou Sowe, secretary general of ACCFA said the association aim is to create a uniform national association of clearing and forwarding agents in the country.
According to SG Sowe loading and unloading of their Cargo at the sea, air and border ports is part of the activities to prepare bookings for goods to be shipped with customs clearing forms, paying customs duties, taxes and handling charges to Cargo and other ships.
Mr. Josephine Njie, representative of GRA pointed out that, the association aimed at employing competent staff to run the affairs of the association, and building a close relationship with stakeholders for a great improvement of the association.
However, Olimatou Sadia Deen, GCCI representative said GCCI have supported the association by providing ID Cards for its members and will continue to support the association.
