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The Bureau of Customs will extend the validity of importers’ accreditation to three years from one year
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To implement the extension, BOC will amend Customs Administrative Order No. 07-2022, which provides procedures for accreditation of importers
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As part of the new amendment, the processing fee will be adjusted from P2,000 to P5,000
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The agency is also eyeing clear guidelines for automatic renewal of accreditations, simplifying the process for eligible importers
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) will extend the validity of importers’ accreditation to three years from one year. To implement the extension, the agency will amend Customs Administrative Order (CAO) No. 07-2022, which provides procedures for accreditation of importers.
The extension is “in direct response to stakeholder sentiments and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to improve ease of doing business” and aims “to enhance operational efficiency, integrity, and minimize opportunities for corruption,” BOC said in a statement.
BOC added this will “not only reduce the administrative burden on importers but also simplify the process, allowing them to focus more on their operations rather than annual renewals.”
The shift is “expected to lead to smoother trade transactions, reducing unnecessary delays and fostering a more predictable regulatory environment for businesses,” BOC said.
As part of the amendment, BOC said the processing fee will be adjusted from P2,000 to P5,000 for the accreditation that will be valid for three years.
BCO said the increase will help it better manage the growing demands and enhance the accreditation system’s efficiency. Additionally, the application form will be updated to include additional fields, ensuring more accurate data collection and improving compliance monitoring.
To maintain transparency and accountability, the amendment will require importers to submit an annual reportorial compliance 30 days before the anniversary of their accreditation. This report will summarize any updates to business documents or information, ensuring that BOC is consistently up to date on the status of accredited importers.
In response to stakeholders’ feedback, the proposal outlines clear guidelines for automatic renewal of accreditations, simplifying the process for eligible importers. Under CAO 07-2022, accredited importers may also apply for automatic renewal of application.
READ: BOC allows automatic renewal of importer accreditation
“We are committed to making the accreditation process more efficient for importers while upholding transparency and accountability in our operations. By streamlining procedures and reducing opportunities for discretion, these reforms will help deter corruption and promote a more honest and service-oriented Bureau of Customs,” Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said.
BOC said it is currently reviewing the draft amendment of the CAO with its legal team to ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations.
