Commissioner's Page
On the 26th of June 2009, the National Executive Council approved the separation of PNG Customs from the Internal Revenue Commission. This decision came at a time when there was a heightened security concern at both regional and international levels. Closer to home, political and community leaders from border provinces have become increasingly concerned about the limited level of resources made available to law enforcement agencies to effectively deal with threats of cross border criminal activities.
Concerns about international security and cross border criminal activities prevail as Papua New Guinea face major develop challenges notably in sectors including aviation, agriculture and fisheries, oil and gas, mining, shipping, and telecommunications. While these major development projects are important for the country's economy, the anticipated increase in movement of conveyances, people and goods across the country's border will open the way for opportunities, organised criminal and terrorist elements to penetrate the border for illegal purposes or gains.
In line with this, Customs is now in the process of shifting its resources to enhance regional and border operations. This is an important step towards increasing Customs presence throughout the country, enhancing enforcement and response capabilities at regional and border posts, ensuring there is efficient service rendered to the business community and revenue collection and data management systems are implemented effectively.
The responsibility for securing the country's national border is not only for Customs alone but is a shared responsibility. Customs is therefore committed to forging working partnerships with the Royal PNG Constabulary, the Defence Force, the Department of Fisheries, Agriculture and Quarantine, PNG Immigration, the Border Development Authority and provisional and community leaders.
On the trade facilitation and revenue collection fronts, Customs staff and traders will continuously be trained to make optimum use of the automated ASYCUDA cargo clearance system ensure the online entry process, manifest acquittal and eventual electronic duty payment remains efficient. Appropriate risk management techniques will be adopted to improve trade flows for low risk traders while those having higher risks will undergo closer scrutiny.
Professional development for Customs officers over the past decade and a half have seriously been lacking. This plan aims to reinvigorate the phased training for Customs staff with a view to improving specialist and management training for Customs staff. Over the longer term Customs will explore the possibilities for establishing alliances with higher learning institutions and the establishment of a recognised PNG Customs training academy. Human resource initiatives are extremely important so as to groom a young, vibrant and smart Customs workforce into the next decade.
In the midst of all the challenges and exciting times, I find myself truly humbled to lead the Papua New Guinea Customs Service as the organisation rebuilds it independent agency status, becomes a model of efficiency and effectiveness and to witness Customs officers regain their professionalism.
Mr Gary Juffa
Commissioner Customs
Mr. Juffa has served as a customs officer since joining the IRC in 1997. Prior to his appointment, he had served in several senior positions within the Customs and Internal Audit Divisions of the IRC.