The research was aimed to establish the impact of customs modernisation on trade facilitation initiatives implemented by ZIMRA and the relationship between modernisation of customs procedures and economic growth as well as the challenges being faced by the Customs Administration in its objective. The research seeks to answer the following questions: To what extent does the economic environment have any bearing on the modernisation procedures in Customs Administration? How relevant is the Customs legislation in support of modernisation of customs trade facilitation initiatives? Has ZIMRA achieve its intended goals towards embarking on modernizing its Customs operations? What is the impact on various stakeholders, for instance, importers, exporters and the Zimbabwean government? What are the benefits and costs of trade facilitation? What is the relationship between trade facilitation and economic development?
The implementation of customs reforms is a topical issue in the customs modernisation field to the extent that the donor community has been funding the projects in many developing countries. However, the greatest challenge is on to the extent to which they affect trade facilitation initiatives. Modernisation of trade facilitation initiatives has been described as the key to sustainable economic development and thus a poverty reduction tool. Zimbabwe has not been seen to be much committed to trade facilitation, instead, it has been characterised by cumbersome and complicated trade procedures, which have worked against trade facilitation in most third world countries. Some of the modernisation initiatives proposed are not being fully utilised. Thus the researcher seeks to evaluate the consequences of those initiatives if implemented in the Customs Administration. Zimbabwe’s economy is backed up by trade with other countries and is also used as a transiting country which links trade between various other countries.
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND STUDY
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background to the Study
1.2 Problem Statement
1.3 Research Objectives
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Hypothesis
1.6 Justification of the Study
1.6 Definition of Terms
1.6.1Customs Modernisation
1.6.2 Trade Facilitation
1.6.3 Information and Communication Technology
1.6.4 World Customs Organisation
1.6.5 Clearing Agent
1.6.6 Revised Kyoto Convention
1.6.7 Safe Framework of Standards
1.7 Delimitation of study
1.8 Limitations
1.9 Organisation of the rest of the study
1.9 Chapter Summary
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction
2.1 Customs Modernisation Overview
2.2 Customs Modernization: Drivers and Principles
2.3 Customs Role in Trade Facilitation
2.4 Trade Facilitation and Economic Development
2.5 Developing Country Concerns of Modernisation
2.6 Options to Move Forward on Trade Facilitation Modalities
2.7 Customs Modernisation Initiatives
2.8 Benefits from Modernisation Initiatives in Different Countries
2.9 Chapter Summary
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Research Design
3.2 Target Population
3.3 Sampling Techniques
3.3.1 Judgement Sampling
3.3.2 Simple Random Sampling
3.4 Sample Size
3.5 Data Collection
3.5.1 Data Collection Procedures
3.6 Research Instruments
3.6.1 Questionnaire
3.6.2 Observations
3.7 Sources of Data
3.7.1 Primary Sources
3.8 Secondary Sources
3.8.1 Textbooks
3.8.2 Newspapers and Journals
3.8.3 Magazines
3.8.4 Newsletters
3.8.5 Internet
3.8.6 Advantages of Secondary Data
3.8.7 Disadvantages of Secondary Data.
3.9 Pilot Testing
3.10 Ethical Issues
3.11 Data Processing
3.12 Data Presentation and Analysis Procedures
3.13 Chapter Summary
CHAPTER 4: PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA
4.0 Introduction
4.1.0 Response Rate
4.1.1 Questionnaires
4.1.2 Interviews
4.2 Questionnaire Responses Analysis
4.2.1 ZIMRA clients Questionnaire
4.2.3 Analysis of waiting time before payment at ZIMRA
4.2.4 Effect of modernisation on business operations
4.2.5 Analysis of Modernisation on Trade Facilitation initiatives
4.2.6 Analysis of modernisation of trade facilitation initiatives on state revenue
4.2.7 Implication of modernisation on trade and travel
4.2.9 Hindrance to trade facilitation
4.2.11 Trade facilitation measures implemented by ZIMRA
4.2.12 ZIMRA Employees Questionnaire
4.3 Findings from observations and interviews
4.4 Hypothesis Testing
4.5 Chapter Summary
CHAPTER 5: SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS.
5.0. Introduction
5.1 Summary of findings
5.1.1 Information Computer Technology
5.1.2 The Role of Clearing Agents in Modernisation of Customs Procedures
5.1.3 Role of Customs and its impact on Trade
5.1.4 Extent of Implementation of modern customs initiatives by ZIMRA
5.1.5 Non-intrusive Equipment
5.1.6 Post clearance Audits
5.1.7 Preclearance System
5.1.8 Risk Management
5.1.9 Successfully installed modern customs procedures
5.2 Conclusions
5.2.0 Customs Relationship with the Business Community
5.2.1 The Role of Clearing Agents in Trade Facilitation
5.2.2 Extent of Implementation of modern customs initiatives by ZIMRA
5.2.3 Information Computer Technology
5.2.4 Modernisation of customs procedures and Economic Development
5.2.5. Customs Relationship with the Business Community
5.4 Recommendations
5.4.1 Risk Analysis and Management
5.4.2 Use of ICT
5.4.3 Simplification of Documentation
5.4.4 Modern Trade facilitation Initiatives
5.4.5 Timely Release of Information
5.4.6 Training of ZIMRA officials
5.4.7 Preclearance
5.4.8 ZIMRA Relationships with relevant agencies
5.4.9 Modernisation of Trade Office
5.5 Suggestions for further research
5.6 Chapter Summary
Research Objectives and Focus
This research aims to investigate the impact of customs modernisation on trade facilitation initiatives in Zimbabwe, specifically evaluating the relationship between these modernisation efforts, economic growth, and the operational challenges faced by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA).
- Evaluating the benefits and costs associated with trade facilitation initiatives.
- Assessing challenges faced by customs authorities during the modernisation process.
- Analyzing the roles of key participants, including importers, exporters, and clearing agents.
- Examining the impact of modern customs procedures on revenue collection and state economic development.
- Providing strategic recommendations to improve ZIMRA's service delivery and trade facilitation efficiency.
Extract from the Book
2.7.2 Single Window Concept
A significant portion of delays at a customs administration’s frontiers (ports of entry) is caused by the multiplicity of government’s agencies operating at a country’s borders. The single window concept requires that information required by the various government agencies be submitted at once at a central point, say at customs. This will ensure that customs clearing agents and other players involved in international trade will not need to waste time submitting documents in every office at a border post.
Given the plethora of shipping documentation, a single window would provide a one stop shop solution to the trader, and balance trade facilitation with controls dictated by domestic policies and international agreements’ (Roy and Bagai, 2004). Where the Single Window Concept is in operation there is a considerable saving of time and consequently costs. “In Sweden, a single authority receives all relevant information (via paper or electronically) and transmits this further to the appropriate government authorities. Almost 94% of all customs declarations are submitted using this approach annually. The benefits are clear: a single interface for all trade information, no additional document requirements, release time in 90 seconds, and better collection by Customs. The United States on the other hand, uses an integrated single automated system that collects stores and transfers all information related to a trade transaction. Standardization and harmonization resulted in a reduction in the number of data elements.”(ibid) It is evident that the Single Window Concept is the solution to the handling of the many shipping documents by the various government agencies and has affected customs operations positively in many countries.
Summary of Chapters
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND STUDY: This chapter introduces the role of trade as an engine for globalisation and the necessity of customs modernisation for efficient trade facilitation, while outlining the problem statement and research objectives regarding Zimbabwe.
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW: This chapter provides a critical analysis of theoretical and empirical studies, reviewing global customs modernisation initiatives and their impact on revenue collection, trade flows, and economic development in various developing countries.
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: This chapter outlines the research design, qualitative data collection methods, and sampling techniques (judgement and simple random sampling) used at various Zimbabwean border posts to evaluate the research hypothesis.
CHAPTER 4: PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA: This chapter presents the research findings gathered from questionnaires and interviews, focusing on ZIMRA’s performance regarding clearance times, costs of business, and the implementation status of modern trade facilitation measures.
CHAPTER 5: SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS.: This chapter synthesizes the study findings, draws conclusions regarding the impact of customs modernisation on the Zimbabwean economy, and offers recommendations for improving ZIMRA's future operations.
Keywords
Customs Modernisation, Trade Facilitation, Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, ZIMRA, Economic Growth, ASYCUDA, Single Window Concept, Risk Management, Export Competitiveness, Revenue Collection, Border Posts, Clearing Agents, International Trade, Customs Reform, Compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary objective of this research?
The primary objective is to establish the impact of customs modernisation on trade facilitation initiatives implemented by ZIMRA and to explore the relationship between these procedures, economic growth, and the challenges faced by the administration.
What key themes are addressed in this work?
The work covers themes such as customs modernisation, trade facilitation, revenue collection efficiency, the role of clearing agents, the use of information technology in border control, and the socio-economic impacts of customs reform.
What scientific methodology was applied in this study?
The research employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing questionnaires, interviews, and direct observations at major Zimbabwean border posts (Beitbridge, Plumtree, and Bulawayo) to gather primary data from ZIMRA staff, clearing agents, and traders.
What is covered in the main body of the research?
The main body examines existing literature on customs reform, details the research methodology, presents a comprehensive analysis of data collected from field research, and summarizes findings regarding the implementation and effectiveness of modernisation initiatives.
Which specific trade facilitation tools does the study discuss?
The study discusses tools such as the Single Window Concept, the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), risk management techniques, pre-clearance systems, non-intrusive scanning machines, and one-stop border posts.
How does this study contribute to the understanding of economic development?
It highlights that modernised customs systems reduce transaction costs, decrease corruption, and attract foreign direct investment, all of which are essential catalysts for sustainable economic development in developing countries.
Does ZIMRA currently implement the Single Window Concept?
The findings indicate that ZIMRA has faced challenges in fully implementing the Single Window concept, despite its benefits in other international jurisdictions.
How do clearing agents perceive the modernisation efforts?
Clearing agents generally acknowledge the value of computerisation but express concerns about system downtime, high costs of electronic submission, and perceived bureaucratic hurdles that persist despite modernisation efforts.
What role does corruption play in the modernisation process?
The study notes that corruption remains a risk within customs administrations and that unless strictly minimized, it can negate the potential benefits of modern trade facilitation procedures by causing unnecessary delays and loss of state revenue.
What is the author's final recommendation regarding a modernisation office?
The author recommends that the government of Zimbabwe should establish a dedicated office under the auspices of ZIMRA specifically to manage and drive the modernisation of customs procedures to ensure coherence and efficiency.
- Quote paper
- Gidion Mhuru (Author), 2012, The Impact of Modernisation on Trade Facilitation Initiatives in Zimbabwe, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/541114
