By Kisean Joseph
The Customs and Excise Division has implemented a comprehensive set of measures to handle the increased holiday traffic while reporting impressive revenue figures for the year, according to Comptroller of Customs Raju Boddu.
The department has particularly focused on streamlining the Christmas Barrel Initiative, which began December 1 and continues through to January 31.
“We have deployed extra resources and extended our business hours, including working some Saturdays in December,” Boddu said. “All supervisors are directed to facilitate the Christmas barrel program as expeditiously as possible.”
The department has opened additional service counters specifically for Christmas barrel processing, with three dedicated cashiers to minimize waiting times. The enhanced operations come as the department approaches its anticipated revenue targets for the year.
“We have already collected $416 million for the year,” Boddu revealed, noting that December alone is projected to bring in $49 million. “Our target is $495 million and we’ve been seeing consistent growth of 22 percent throughout the year.”
With $16 million already collected this month, the department appears well-positioned to meet its seasonal goals. Current estimates suggest a year-end total of $492 million, though Boddu emphasized they’re pushing to reach the full $495-million target.
The Christmas Barrel Initiative has been designed for maximum efficiency. “The process is very simple,” Boddu assured. “We have a designated counter for Christmas barrels. All you have to do is give your shipping documents to the officer and they will input it into the system for you.”
He added that no broker is required for this service, and processing typically takes just five minutes.
Consumers in the programme need only pay a $10 processing fee plus a 10 percent revenue recovery charge based on the value of the goods.
However, Boddu issued a caution regarding the contents of the barrels. “What you are authorized is clothes, toiletries, and foodstuff only. If any other stuff is loaded into the barrel, the whole barrel will be treated as a normal barrel, and all duties and taxes will be levied.”
The comptroller also emphasized strict enforcement regarding prohibited items. “If prohibited items like firearms, drugs, etc, are found, criminal action as advised will be taken,” he warned, and underscored the department’s commitment to maintaining security alongside customer service.
The initiative reflect the Customs Department’s efforts to combine efficiency with regulatory compliance during the high-traffic holiday season. The extended hours, dedicated personnel and streamlined processes are designed to meet seasonal demands while maintaining necessary oversight.
