Dear Editor,
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has implemented a new policy for importers to have their cargo taped by a camera crew before it is uplifted. The implementation of this policy is causing a lot of difficulties. Can someone in the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) please provide some answers to the following:
1. Why was there no camera crew for three days from last Thursday at the Laparkan wharf?
2. Is there only one crew servicing all the wharves?
3. GRA mentioned in a press release that when importers were ready to clear cargo they had to apply for a letter advising what extent of examination would be required. What is the realistic time-frame for this letter to be produced, bearing in mind that it takes about ten business days to obtain remission letters from the GRA office instead of the stated three business days?
4. What procedure is in place for perishable cargo?
5. The release mentioned efficiencies as being of importance with this new requirement. But how, in reality, can this be achieved when from all indications only one crew is available for this exercise?
6. On what basis is a wharf selected for the crew to visit?
7. The phone numbers for the Director of Wharves are continuously not answered. No one in authority seems available to provide any directives. The automated number at the switchboard is not functional.
Some basic system should be in place for business to function.
Yours faithfully,
(Name and address provided)
Editor’s note
We are sending a copy of this letter to the Guyana Revenue Authority for any comment they might wish to make.
