On 23 July 2004, seaport customs reform, the top priority of Shenzhen Customs this year, was officially launched in Yantian Port, after the port was chosen for experiments in the second round of customs reform. The reform will focus on some key areas, including centralised inspection, risk management, and import and export pre-declaration.

"The reform will aim at standardising the regulation, operation and procedure of Customs, providing one-stop operational services, and enhancing electronic data interchange. We are committed to achieving the most efficient and convenient customs clearance in Yantian Port, to support and promote port development," remarked Mr. Tang Longjun, Director of Dapeng Customs, at the launch ceremony.

All import and export companies, shippers and shipping lines using Yantian Port will benefit from the reform. For instance, compulsory translation into Chinese is no longer imposed on import pre-declaration - which will save 2-5 days for cargo clearance. In addition, the centralised inspection to be put into practice will reduce the time required both to inspect containers and for containers to stay at the terminal. This effort will avoid storage charges or shipment reschedules arising from the inspection.

For import cargo,  Customs will allow pre-declaration, and will cancel written manifest review and approval procedures, thus cutting out 1-2 days for declaration. Reputable companies are allowed to pre-declare their import cargo before vessel arrival.  Customs will review pre-declaration, and levy taxes and duties in advance; and then release containers upon landing. For export cargo, pre-declaration will also be allowed before entering the gatehouse. Containers will be inspected or released upon arrival. This will increase empty container turnaround rate for shipping lines and reduce truck turnaround time.  Customs will take new measures on shipment rescheduling and export transit. It is planned that all the reforms will be on-going, and implemented gradually before the end of this year.

The initiatives will not only reduce container storage time, but also improve the utilisation of terminal container yards. Efficient customs clearance will also save costs for customers, and increase their competitive abilities as well.