UNBS Launches E-Portal to Streamline Imported Goods Clearance

The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has launched a new electronic portal aimed at significantly speeding up the process of clearing imported goods. This digital system, integrated with the Uganda Revenue Authority’s Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA World), allows importers and clearing agents to monitor their consignments throughout the entire clearance procedure via an online platform.

Gastone Kironde, Principal Inspector for National Inspection at UNBS, explained that the ePortal introduces a crucial additional review stage. This new layer ensures that inspectors’ assessments and supporting documentation are thoroughly checked before any consignment is approved, improving the quality control of inspections.

The system also enables UNBS to better track the turnaround times of its inspectors and facilitates automatic clearance for certain goods, such as motor vehicles, that have already passed pre-export inspections. Importers can now create accounts on the portal to monitor the progress of their shipments using computers or mobile phones.

UNBS utilizes the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) program to prevent substandard goods from entering Uganda. Under this program, goods are inspected in their country of origin and are either issued a Certificate of Conformity or a Non-Conformity Report. Consignments failing to meet standards may face re-exportation or destruction at the importer’s expense. UNBS reports seizing over 20 consignments monthly, primarily due to quality rather than safety issues.

While some manufacturers, like those from Kakira Sugar Limited and Madhvani Group, have reported improved efficiency and faster clearance times, citing an example of a consignment cleared in under 24 hours, clearing agents have raised concerns. Some agents report continued delays in UNBS clearance, even after URA has processed goods, potentially impacting manufacturers reliant on timely imports. They urge UNBS to ensure the new digital system consistently leads to faster and more predictable clearances for all businesses, regardless of size.

For more details, visit the Daily Monitor.