On 15 May 2003, Shenzhen Customs and Yantian International Container Terminals (YICT) signed a “Memorandum of Co-operation to Expedite Customs Declarations” (MOU) in regard to terminal supervision, imported empty container pre-declarations, international trans-shipments and related issues. The MOU allows shipping lines to apply for pre-declaration on imported empty containers twelve hours in advance. This allows empty containers to be picked up immediately after discharge.
From 1 May, Dapeng Customs started a pilot programme of “Empty Container Declarations” at YICT. Shipping lines are required to send empty container data for pre-declaration to YICT twelve hours ahead of vessel arrival. YICT, as a guarantor, applies to Dapeng Customs for pre-declaration. Pre-declared empty containers which have been approved by the Customs are then allowed to leave the terminal upon arrival. Before implementation, empty containers were required to stay at the terminal for about seven days on average.
With mutual trust and co-operation, Shenzhen Customs and YICT have been taking advantage of state-of-the-art technology to constantly improve logistic supervision at the terminal. In co-operation with the terminal, Customs has developed the Customs Electronic Inspection System (CEIS), increasing inspection efficiency substantially. This has greatly improved the service levels of Customs for both enterprises and the general public.
The signing of the MOU officially confirms the express features of pre-declaration, release after discharge, gatehouse management and completion of necessary procedures afterwards. This has resolved issues which may have caused bottlenecks in the development of the port and shipping industry.
To adapt to this reformed system, YICT has opened up six special lanes for empty containers at the terminal’s exit gatehouse. In addition, it has assigned 40 employees trained by the Customs to supervise the exit gatehouse round the clock to ensure the empty containers leave accordingly.
At the signing ceremony at the Wuzhou Guest House, Mr. Wu Rongchang, Deputy Director of Shenzhen Customs, and Mr. Kenneth Tse, General Manager of YICT, signed the MOU on behalf of their respective organisations. Mr. Li Decheng, Executive Vice Mayor of Shenzhen Municipal Government, Mr. Zou Zhiwu, the newly appointed Director of Shenzhen Customs, and other guests (a total of 80 persons) were present and witnessed the ceremony.