The UGX13 billion (US$5 million) Electronic Single Window System has been launched in Uganda, linking government, clearing agencies and local traders to ease and speed up international trade.
New Vision reports the e-Single Window System will make it possible for traders and transporters to submit the data needed to declare goods admissible to the authorities at border control using a single portal.
It is expected to decrease the time the process usually takes by 50 per cent and will complement other national and regional trade facilitation initiatives such as Integrated Border Management (IBM) and One-Stop- Border Posts (OSBP).
“The need to introduce simplified systems that facilitate trade is important as it creates a conducive investment climate, thus attracting more investments and economic growth,” said Amelia Kyambadde, Uganda’s trade minister.
Kyambadde said the new customs IT system removes the existing trade barrier of goods moving from one country to another and reduces the cost of trade therefore enhancing competition.
She added: “I urge private sector players to re-examine how they do business with a view to adopt internationally recommended practices to reduce cost and enhance competitiveness.”
