ZAMBIAN IMPORT DELAYS WE are experiencing problems with regards to the introduction of the new Asycuda World customs software to ZRA. Agents are struggling with connectivity and constant shutdowns along with the fact that the ZRA Staff are learning the new system. Customs have huge tailbacks at the borders and are all struggling to keep the trucks moving. The system is web based and is dependent on connectivity. Customs Authorities (ZRA) are working internally on the system and the system is shut down in the process, plus connectivity problems which is causing problems capturing Customs Bills of Entry. We are doing our level best to have entries cleared within the stipulated period but if the systems in place is down there is very little we can do in getting the system up and running. Management is currently involved on a daily basis where we are sending mail to the ZRA Port offices to complain and exert pressure to have the matters resolved. There was a electrical failure over the weekend at Chirundu, as currently there are works being done at the main substation for Chirundu. All documents pertaining to the entry are re-scanned and uploaded on to the system, and in the process of uploading, the system goes off, and the process is repeated over and over due to the poor connectivity on the Customs system. As a result, entries were not able to be registered and processed through customs. In the interim rest assured we are doing our best (where we can) in the processing of the entries, to have the trucks dispatched as quickly as humanly possible
Posted on: Thu, 06 Mar 2014 06:06:00 +0000