Customs halted nationwide as Agents Protest New Act (with photos)
The protest began in response to certain provisions of the Customs Act, 2082, which came into effect on Mangsir 21, 2082.
KATHMANDU: All customs offices across Nepal have suspended operations following a “pen-down” protest called by the Customs Agents Federation of Nepal.
The protest began in response to certain provisions of the Customs Act, 2082, which came into effect on Mangsir 21, 2082.
According to the federation, the new law discourages professional rights of customs agents, as well as legitimate business and trade, instead of facilitating smoother international trade and customs procedures.
The federation has long demanded that the draft act address issues such as penalties and fines, license renewals, suspension processes, bank guarantees, user-ID management in the computerized system, the in/out note system, and limiting customs clearance to licensed agents.
However, the enacted law has added unnecessary penalties and expanded discretionary powers, the federation alleges.
The federation also criticized the Customs Department for failing to resolve persistent delays in customs clearance, server problems in the automation system, revenue payments, and quarantine-related complexities.
The pen-down movement began at Birgunj customs on Sunday, spread to Bhairahawa on Monday, and by Tuesday had paralyzed all customs services nationwide, said Umesh Ghimire, a central member of the federation.
The suspension of clearance services has directly impacted revenue collection across the country.
The federation has warned that unless their demands regarding professional rights and operational issues are addressed, further protest measures will be announced later this week.
