Evaluation of trade facilitation challenges on import clearance business in Tanzania

The research evaluates trade facilitation challenges in the Import Clearance Business in Tanzania (ICBT). The specific concentration was on challenges which hinder the Import Clearance Business. Ten cases were studied from Dar es Salaam region. At least one interviewee was drawn from each on the case judgmental and convenience basis. Interviewees, observations and documentary reviews were used as tools for data collection. The data collected were analysed qualitatively. The findings revealed a number of trade facilitation challenges that hinder ICBT, these included, lack of professionalism, inefficient internal systems, inadequate consultations and information dissemination, lack of transparency, excessive documentation requirements, inadequate staffing levels of suitably qualified personnel, insufficient use of ICT, lack of coordination between agencies, unnecessary and time consuming physical inspections, focus on revenue maximization per shipment, and inadequate physical facilities, and equipment at ports. This study concluded that policies and procedures developed and implemented by trade facilitation organisations do not have the input of importers, therefore complex. It was also noted that organizations involved in trade transactions are many, thus poor coordination between agencies and dissemination of procedures likewise, compliance issues lead to unnecessary delays, cost, uncertainty, and physical proximity for the system to work efficiently. The study recommended that there is a need for the Government to systematically monitor and evaluate the process by creating one stop centre for all trade facilitation agencies, import and exports processes in order to reduce delays and unnecessary transaction costs