Container scanner site launched
─ “a crucial component in our Anti-money laundering efforts and the fight against illegal drugs and other activities” – Min. Jordan
─ container scanner is a gift from the Government of The People’s Republic of China
DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, July 17, 2018
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) along with the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) yesterday launched a new container scanner site located at the corners on Sussex and Lombard Street, Georgetown.
The container scanner is a gift from the Government of The People’s Republic of China and is the first of its kind in Guyana. This was disclosed by GRA’s Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia.
The Commissioner-General said the scanning facilities “not only reduce trade transaction cost and time but also for the collection of increased revenues.”
He explained that “many countries, to whom Guyana exports, require scanning at the source and we were in danger of losing these markets for lack thereof because of our failure to meet certain international trade guidelines for trade facilitation.”
Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, declared that the new scanner and facility “a crucial component in our Anti-money laundering efforts and the fight against illegal drugs and other activities.”
The minister stated that it will also play an important role in protecting the nation’s revenue. He noted that parcels coming into the country are packed in such a way that if an officer is not thorough, items are missed and important revenue is lost.
He added that this scanner will also be able “to detect illegal exports” and “deter illegal trade activities.”
Minister Jordan also noted that this new venture underscores GRA’s tax reform.
An additional relocatable scanner is set to arrive before the end of the year.
By: Anara Khan.