The Maldives Customs Service has implemented automation for the clearance of air cargo.
Following the inauguration of the automated air cargo clearance system, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan highlighted the significant improvement, stating that previously, it took two days to clear goods through the Customs. He emphasised President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's commitment to providing seamless services to the public, indicating that the streamlined system reflects the fulfillment of the President's mandate.
Speaking to PSM News, Deputy Chief Superintendent at the Customs Ahmed Simah explained that the previous cargo clearance process relied on an outdated system involving multiple institutions and extensive paperwork. He also emphasised the burdensome nature of manual checks on owner information.
Additionally, Simah outlined the benefits of the new automated system, allowing customers to access information by entering a unique number provided by the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) on the Customs Portal. He also said that the streamlined process replaces manual paperwork and checks on owner information with automated procedures.
President Dr. Muizzu also inaugurated a new cargo terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) on December 15, doubling the size of the previous terminal and equipping it with modern facilities to enhance efficiency in cargo handling.