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Clearing agents blame new system for delays, TRA responds
What you need to know:
- The TRA introduced the upgraded system earlier this year to replace its predecessor, incorporating improved modules, new features, and advanced technology.
Dar es Salaam. Clearing agents have raised concerns over inefficiencies in the newly introduced Tanzania Customs Integrated System (Tancis), which they say is disrupting cargo flow and causing significant delays.
Reached for comment, Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) taxpayer services and education director Richard Kayombo dismissed claims of widespread inefficiencies, stating that Tancis is operating well.
He urged stakeholders to report specific issues rather than generalise concerns.
“We met with the Tanzania Freight Forwarders Association leadership and they did not raise any concerns from their members,” he said.
The TRA introduced the upgraded system earlier this year to replace its predecessor, incorporating improved modules, new features, and advanced technology.
However, industry players argue that the system is not functioning effectively, leading to prolonged processing times and additional charges.
Before the introduction of the upgraded Tancis system in January, the port reportedly cleared between 800 and 1,200 trucks daily, clearing agents say.
However, those who spoke to The Citizen say the number has now dropped to just about 100 80 lorries per day, creating severe congestion and financial strain on businesses.
One stakeholder, speaking on condition of anonymity, cited frequent system failures as a major setback, making cargo clearance cumbersome and increasing costs for traders.
“Before launching new technology, a pilot test should have been conducted to assess its efficiency,” the source said.
“This system was introduced without adequate testing, and now Inland Container Depots (ICDs) are struggling to handle cargo.”
Adding to the problem, the cargo scanning system is reportedly malfunctioning, preventing goods from leaving the port as they cannot be inspected.
“A company like Galco Limited is charging storage fees when the carry-in is delayed for more than three to five days,” the source explained.
“But as far as I know, the free days should be calculated from the carry-in date, not from the discharge date. This is incorrect and is creating unnecessary bureaucracy for requesting refunds. Many people either don’t request the refunds or aren’t aware of the process.”
Industry representatives insist that the system is experiencing significant network-related challenges.
Customs Agents and Logistics Association of Tanzania chair Walter Mndeme said the disruptions are causing lorry congestion stretching as far as Temeke.
“The main challenge is also with the scanners. Cargo cannot be released without being scanned and the backlog is worsening by the day,” he said.
Dr Mndeme also highlighted difficulties faced at the Tanzania East African Gateway Terminal, where trucks must first pay an invoice before seeking a permit to enter the Kitoppeni yard for further logistics processes.
“What is frustrating is that the invoice expires after six hours and due to the current disruptions, one has to pay for a new invoice, which is costly and disruptive,” he added.
