WILLEMSTAD - On Wednesday, June 28th, the Minister of Finance presented the Amendment Memorandum of the General Customs and Excise Ordinance (ALDA) to the Council of Ministers. This long-awaited development marks a significant step forward in modernizing customs and excise legislation, as well as consolidating related ordinances into a comprehensive general ordinance. Originally submitted to parliament in 2016, the ALDA had been pending until now. Minister Silvania's decision to conclude the process demonstrates a commitment to the interests of both the customs organization and the business community.
The ALDA is designed to align with the most up-to-date international treaty standards that Curaçao is a party to, ensuring compliance with global best practices. At the local level, it will bring about substantial improvements in legal certainty for the Customs organization and the business community alike.
One of the key benefits of the ALDA is the provision of clearer definitions regarding rights and obligations. This clarity extends across various aspects, including the declaration and calculation of taxes and import duties, as well as objection and appeal procedures. By establishing these guidelines, the ALDA aims to promote a more transparent and consistent framework, enhancing trust and understanding between stakeholders.
Furthermore, the ALDA introduces enhanced digital communication channels between Customs and importers. This digitalization initiative will streamline the import process by enabling pre-arrival declarations, thereby expediting procedures and reducing unnecessary delays. The introduction of advanced digital platforms will foster smoother interactions and efficient information exchange, benefitting both parties involved.
Importantly, the ALDA paves the way for the designation of companies that demonstrate exemplary organizational practices, particularly in areas such as administration, security, and internal control. Such companies will enjoy simplified import and export procedures, leading to notable cost savings. This provision encourages businesses to maintain high standards while rewarding their diligence and commitment.
Lastly, the ALDA expands the scope for granting exemptions, offering more flexibility in specific cases. For instance, donated goods intended for charitable and sports organizations can now be exempted under the new provisions. This change supports philanthropic efforts and recognizes the valuable contributions made by these organizations to the community.