Customs services are not responsible for the prices hike in South Sudan that celebrated for the first time the International Customs Day on Saturday.
Director General of Customs, Frederick Lokule, told CRN it was very important for South Sudan to join the global customs community.He said South Sudan customs officers needed a comprehensive program on capacity building which will be supported by the International Customs Organization.
Mr Lokule denied that customs taxes were responsible for the high prices on imported goods in the markets.
He explained that the customs charge only two pounds per bag of cement.
The official said the Ministry of Commerce charges 20 percent of the value of imported goods.
Mr Lokule said the Ministry of Commerce should only collect specific fees including licenses.
The International Custom’s Day celebrations continue this evening at Juba Basket Ball Stadium featuring cultural dances and match between Al Hilal and Merik teams.