Consumers could see increased costs due to clearing issues at the Ports

President of the Greater Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Vishnu Charran, says fall out from delays in clearing of containers at the ports could possibly result in consumers facing increased costs.

Recently the American Chamber of Commerce Trinidad and Tobago applauded the Customs and Excise Division for finally beginning the process and full implementation of the electronic clearance application, ASYCUDA.

AMCHAM TT says if managed effectively and implemented fully, this transition can result in greater revenue collection, better detection of contraband and improved efficiency of the clearance system at the ports.

However, AMCHAM TT said gains made can be eroded if ongoing problems at the ports are not rectified.
The organization says in addition to delays being experienced it is taking several hours of overtime to clear simple shipments.

The Chaguanas Chamber head said the situation could have implications for the public and consumers moving forward.