Following the public outcry on the implementation of the controversial Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) valuation policy introduced by the Federal Government on imported vehicles, the
Comptroller-General, Customs, Col Hameed Ali (rtd), has approved a one-month window to enable importers and their agents clear the backlog of vehicles held up in the ports.
The Customs Public Relations Officer (PRO),Timi Bomodi, said yesterday that the uniform application of rebates, will be used for all vehicles using correct values for assessment during the one month grace granted the importers.
The VIN-Valuation protocol, Bomodi said, is still in operation as reviews and updates are being captured in the Customs systems to reflect the genuine concerns of stakeholders.
He said: “Sequel to recent Customs/Stakeholders town hall meeting held in Lagos on VIN-Valuation, the Comptroller-General Customs having listened to public outcry, has graciously approved one month window to enable clearing the backlog of vehicles held up in the ports as a result of strike action.
“Meanwhile, uniform application of rebates will be used for all vehicles using correct values for assessment during the exercise. For the avoidance of doubt, the VIN-Valuation protocol is still in operation as reviews and updates are being captured in our systems to reflect the genuine concerns of stakeholders.”
Bomodi, however, stated that the service as a responsive and responsible government agency, will sustain its consultations with stakeholders in line with Article 2 of WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement for a smoother Customs Stakeholders relationship.