Why is URA directing all consolidated containers to be cleared through only one ICD, particularly One Lexus ICD, despite the existence of several licensed ICDs in Uganda?
Dear Reader,
URA recently identified challenges with the operations of container leaders/consolidators, that included concealing cargo that led to failure to transfer house bills. URA had to implement a temporary solution of instituting a Centralized Cargo Management System (CCMS) following risks identified among the traders. This is meant to create better cargo management and facilitation administered in a single location.
Please note that clearance at a single ICD is a temporary based measure aimed at addressing the identified risks. This system is subject to ongoing review and will be refined based on feedback from taxpayers.
What criteria did URA use in selecting One Lexus ICD as the sole verification point for consolidated containers?
Dear Reader,
URA as the regulator reserves the right to choose who has the best facilities, space, location and management in the interim. The use of only Lexus ICD is a temporary measure that was put in place, due to the risks that were identified.
However, framework reviews on the requirements and criteria for ICDs are ongoing and there will be an application window open for all ICDs to apply.
Why where clearing agents, traders, and other stakeholders not adequately consulted before implementing this directive?
Dear Reader,
URA regularly conducts consultations with stakeholders widely prior to instituting any process change and is still consulting with taxpayers regarding this initiative. We therefore call upon all taxpayers who require more information about this temporary system to contact us via our toll-free lines 0800117000 or 0800217000.
Has URA conducted an impact assessment on congestion, delays, and additional business costs arising from concentrating container verification at one ICD?
Dear Reader,
URA is fully aware of the resource demand at this ICD and as such, has deployed additional staff to support the cargo management processes. This will fasten the container verification and reduce the delays that would have caused additional business costs.
For this system to operate effectively, we require the full cooperation and proactive engagement of key stakeholders, particularly clearing agents and consolidators. Their timely availability and responsiveness are essential to facilitate efficient verification processes and expedite the clearance of cargo.
What measures has URA put in place to prevent excessive storage and demurrage charges likely to affect traders due to delays at the designated ICD?
Dear Reader,
URA has already deployed additional staff at this ICD. This is meant to fasten the verification and clearance process of such cargo and will in turn reduce the number of days the cargo spends in the ICD, thus reducing the storage and demurrage charges on the traders’ side. This will only be actualized when all parties avail themselves in time, to facilitate a timely clearance process.
Is URA aware of concerns raised by clearing agents regarding the operational costs and efficiency challenges associated with One Lexus ICD?
Dear Reader,
URA recognized the need to effectively support this initiative and as a result strengthened operations at the ICD by deploying additional staff to address efficiency challenges. We also note that operational costs can be better managed when all stakeholders particularly traders, clearing agents and consolidators engage in a coordinated and timely manner. This will enable smoother verification and clearance processes minimizing delays and associated costs.
Why were the new container diversion measures implemented abruptly without prior public notice or sufficient transition time?
Dear Reader,
When URA identified a risk of loss of cargo amongst the traders, it immediately came in with a temporary solution of managing safety of cargo through the Centralized Cargo Management system. Being that this was an abrupt incident, stakeholder management has been going on concurrently with the affected stakeholders i.e. traders, clearing agents, consolidators, as we implement the CCMS.
Can URA allow traders and consolidators the freedom to choose from multiple approved ICDs for container verification and clearance?
Dear Reader,
URA is currently reviewing the framework governing the operation of bonded warehouses and Inland Container Depots (ICD). This will require all operators to meet the clearly defined standards and compliance requirements. Any facility that satisfies these criteria will be duly approved and permitted to operate.
How does URA ensure transparency, accountability, and stakeholder participation when introducing major trade facilitation measures?
Dear Reader,
URA regularly conducts workshops and engagement sessions with different stakeholders both prior to and during the implementation of key initiatives. The feedback received from these engagements plays a vital role in shaping future decisions and strengthening service delivery.
Taxpayers can also reach out to us through our official communication channels via our tollfree number 0800217000 or our WhatsApp 0772140000 or Touchpoint www.touchpoint.ura.go.ug to share their feedback or for clarification.
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