The Customs and Excise Division has reported a significant increase in revenue collections from January to July 2023 compared to the same period last year.
The total collections for this timeframe amounted to $232 million, which is $30 million more than the previous year.
The Comptroller of Customs, Raju Boddu, stated that this positive trend is due to the enhanced efficiencies implemented within the division to minimize system leakages.
He also emphasized the critical role played by the capable team of officers stationed at the Deep-Water Harbour.
Mr. Boddu also mentioned that recent statements concerning the operations at the port are coming from those who can no longer avoid paying the due taxes.
He asserted that calls for removing certain officers are likely driven by those who are now constrained from pursuing their previous practices without consequence.
Regarding imports, Boddu revealed that there was a relatively modest 6.7 percent growth in imports between July 2022 and July 2023.
However, collections for June 2023 surged by 12 percent and continued to rise by an additional 14 percent for July.
I am happy to hear of the increase in Custom revenue. I hope some of that revenue would be going towards improving the hospital equipment and medical supplies.