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Cabinet has approved the Customs and Excise Regulations, 2024, a Statutory Instrument intended to provide a legal framework for the licensing and accreditation of Customs Clearing agents, authorities say.
Acting Chief Government Spokesperson, Brenda Tambatamba, said prior to 2019, the mandate relating to licensing of the Customs, Clearing and Forwarding Agents was gazetted.
Tambatamba in a statement issued in Lusaka on Friday, stated that this was done through customs rules by the Commissioner General of the Zambia Revenue Authority.
She said the provision for licensing of Customs, Clearing and Forwarding Agents was, however, removed from the Customs and Excise Regulations of 2000 to provide for standalone regulations.
The Minister added that the Customs Clearing Agents would, going forward, be required to be licensed by the Licensing Committee.
“As such, the 2024 regulations approved by Cabinet, will enable the operationalization of the Licensing Committee and also specify the mandate, tenure and powers of the Licensing Committee, “Tambatamba said.
She added that in addition, the regulations would enhance credibility, and align customs and clearing services with international best practices.
Tambatamba also disclosed that Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament during the current sitting, “The Animal Identification and Traceability Bill, 2024.”
Read More: Cabinet approves amendment of Zambia Police, Immigration Acts
“The objectives of this Bill, among others, are to repeal the Animal Identification Act No. 28 of 2010, to establish the Animal Identification and Traceability Unit and provide for its functions, provide for an animal identification and traceability system,” she said.
The Minister stated that it would provide for the registration of animal identification marks and agents and provide for the traceability of animals, animal products and animal by-products.
Cabinet, Tambatamba explained, was of the view that The Animal Identification Act No. 28 of 2010, was not comprehensive in providing for animal identification and traceability.
“It has, therefore, become necessary to repeal the Act, so as to establish a comprehensive animal identification and traceability system of animals, animal products and animal by-products,” she said.
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