Export declarations are facilitated using the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) World. The exporter/Customhouse Broker is therefore required to log in to the system to submit an export declaration and the other supporting documents for processing. In addition, all outbound cargo (containerised) will be subject to universal image scanning according to the requirements of the international maritime convention on trade facilitation.
Where cargo is being exported, the following must be noted:
The manual process to be followed:
- Exporters must submit documents requesting examination of outgoing cargo along with Forms C43, C12 (a Form C12 is only used when cargo is loaded on or off a sufferance wharf) and a letter requesting examination where applicable;
- An examination of the cargo is then conducted by the Customs, Excise & Trade Operations (CE&TO);
- After the examination is conducted, it is recorded on Form C72. Approval is then given for the goods to be loaded on the vessel in the presence of the Customs personnel and officials from the respective agencies; It must be noted that vessels 100 tons or less loaded in Anna Regina can be granted clearance by the Supervisor of the branch office. However, if the vessel exceeds 100 tons then clearance must be obtained from the relevant personnel at the C & TA, Georgetown;
- The Contents slip, Shipping bill (this must be certified shipped before files are sent to Quality Review) and other documents relating to the cargo are compiled into a file and entered into an outgoing register and given a rotation number.
The process using the ASYCUDA World portal to be followed:
- Exporters/Customhouse Brokers must complete an export declaration via ASYCUDA World.
- A request for examination of the outgoing cargo must be made
- An examination of the cargo is then conducted by Customs
- After the examination, approval is then given for the goods to be loaded on the vessel in the presence of the Customs personnel and officials from the respective agencies. It must be noted that vessels 100 tons or less loaded in Anna Regina can be granted clearance by the Supervisor of the branch office. However, if the vessel exceeds 100 tons then clearance must be obtained from the relevant personnel at Customs in Georgetown;
- The Contents slip, Shipping bill, and other documents relating to the cargo are compiled into a file and entered into an outgoing register and given a rotation number.
Container scanning supports Guyana’s ability to properly export products and services in accordance with international maritime trade rules. Scanning of containers is being done at the terminal on Lombard and Sussex streets, Georgetown.
Scanning of Container Cargo for exports
The container scanning facility operates from 8:00 hrs to 16:30 hrs, Mondays to Thursdays, and 8:00h to 15:30 hrs on Fridays. Customs may go beyond regular hours based on the demand. A booking system is in place to ensure containers are scanned according to schedule. The process usually involves the following:
- Containers arrive at the facility’s southern gate.
- The exporter presents the scanning letter and other documents to the Scanning Operator.
- The operator verifies the information before signaling the Scanning Specialist to commence scanning the container.
- Before the start of scanning, the Scanning Operator ensures the area is clear. The Scanning Specialist switches on the device’s radioactive source which sounds an alarm to alerts those in the terminal that scanning is in progress.
- The container takes approximately two minutes to scan and another three minutes for analysis. The analysis is done using the software tools provided by NUCTECH. Once there are no queries,, the container is released at the eastern gate.
All cargo leaving port Georgetown must be evaluated by the GRA’s Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU).