International Customs Day: Stakeholders emphasise full automation for business-friendly environment

Chattogram University Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Md Kamal Uddin today (26 January) emphasised the need for skilled and trained manpower from all stakeholders—government, private sector, and business—to enhance the customs service process.

He stressed that automation at all levels is essential to foster a business-friendly environment and attract foreign investment, ultimately helping achieve revenue targets.

Kamal made these remarks during a programme organised at the Chattogram Custom House to celebrate International Customs Day. The seminar was presided over by Md Zakir Hossain, commissioner of Chattogram Custom House.

Special guests included Additional Divisional Commissioner (General) and Administrator of the Chattogram Chamber of Commerce and Industry Muhammad Anwar Pasha, Commissioner of Chattogram Tax Zone-2 Md Abdus Sobhan, and Commissioner of the Chattogram Customs Bond Commissionerate Mohammad Shafi Uddin.

In his address, Muhammad Anwar Pasha underscored the vital role of Chattogram Custom House in facilitating trade and contributing to the country's economic growth through import-export activities.

Md Abdus Sobhan highlighted the importance of the Custom House in advance income tax collection.

Commissioner of Chattogram Custom House Md Zakir Hossain concluded the programme by calling for the development of a future-ready customs system. He advocated for full automation, fostering mutual respect, enhancing the professional expertise of customs officials, and cultivating a sense of pride in the profession.

The keynote address was delivered by AKM Nurul Huda Azad, director general of the Customs, Excise, and VAT Training Academy. Mohammad Tafsir Uddin Bhuiyan, district commissioner of Chattogram Custom House, also addressed the gathering.

The event saw the participation of representatives from C&F agents, shipping agents, private depot representatives, and other prominent stakeholders in customs.

International Customs Day is observed every year on 26 January across 185 countries, including Bangladesh, under the World Customs Organisation (WCO).

The theme for this year's celebration was "Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity", reflecting the promise of improving services through modern technology integrated with efficiency and timeliness.