Once container scanning begins, good merchants will be clear: Customs

Maldives Customs Service has said the installation of a container-scanning system will help distinguish trustworthy merchants from those engaging in questionable activities.

Speaking at the Parliament’s Budget Review Committee today, Deputy Commissioner of Customs Ibrahim Mafaz said the new system will also help Customs identify where enforcement efforts should be focused.

Mafaz noted that it is impossible for Customs to physically inspect 100 percent of goods entering the country, despite public expectations.

“Our biggest challenge right now is that everyone expects us to check everything. But that's not possible. That’s why we’re talking about more resources,” he said.

He highlighted that Customs needs additional training and modern equipment to strengthen its operations. Although funding is allocated in the budget every year, Mafaz said the agency has not received the required budget “in recent days.”

Budget Review Committee Chair and Eydhafushi MP Ahmed Saleem said Finance Minister Moosa Zameer has assured the committee that funding will be provided for the installation of the scanner. According to Saleem, Minister Zameer said that MVR 15 million in initial funding will be arranged through the Finance Ministry or Maldives Ports Limited (MPL).

Mafaz also defended the integrity of Customs staff, saying most employees are sincere and committed to doing respectable work.

“We also need to have a good working environment. In this day and age, we cannot operate without an X-ray machine. We also need mobile facilities,” he said, adding that surveys have identified several areas that require improvement — but the agency continues to receive budgets “that do not meet responsibilities.” 

He acknowledged that institutional reforms are needed, noting that measures have already been taken against staff involved in misconduct. Customs is working to ensure it remains an institution free from public criticism, he added.