Enhancing Customs Efficiency: Capacity Building for the Republic of Rwanda on EAC e-Tariff Software

In a concerted effort to bolster customs efficiency and streamline trade processes, the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) and other key stakeholders participated in a workshop focused on the implementation and piloting of the East African Community (EAC) Duty Remission System from 11 to 16 March 2024 in Kigali. The workshop was organised under the framework of the EU-WCO HS-Africa Programme, funded by the European Union. This initiative is part of the digitalisation efforts aiming at modernising customs operations and enhancing the participation of the region's private sector in international trade, through increased access to trade information.

The workshop, held in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat, the WCO, and Global Trade Solution (GTS), brought together key stakeholders including officials from RRA, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Trade and Industries, manufacturers, representatives from the Private Sector Foundation, and Clearing & Forwarding Agents.

The workshop was officiated by Mrs. Yvonne Gatera, Assistant Commissioner for Customs Operations Support at RRA who underscored the importance of the training towards smooth implementation of the EAC Duty Remission software. On the other hand, the EAC Secretariat was represented by Mr. Donald Tindamanyire (Principal Customs Officer - Tariffs and Valuation) who highlighted the importance in enhancing management of duty remission, addressing challenges as well as facilitating the trading community.

The training focused on a number of key objectives, including understanding the operation of the system; gaining practical experience in working with the system; and understanding the approval process by the Duty Remission Committee (DRC). A significant aspect of the workshop was its practical component, allowing participants to gain hands-on experience in utilizing the Duty Remission System. This approach not only deepened participants' understanding of the system's functionality but also empowered them with the necessary skills to navigate customs processes effectively.

Beyond capacity building within RRA, the workshop aimed to sensitise stakeholders involved in the National Duty Remission Committee, including manufacturers, traders, and private sector representatives. By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among these stakeholders, the workshop sought to enhance transparency and efficiency in duty remission processes.

The HS-Africa Programme will roll out the implementation through capacity building workshops in the other EAC countries (Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya and Burundi) in the course of 2024.

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