Kathmandu -The Federation of Customs Agents Nepal (FCAN) has urged the government not to weaken recent customs reform measures, warning that any rollback would be contrary to the national interest and could undermine revenue security, transparency, and good governance.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, the federation expressed serious concern over indications that the "authorized personnel only" entry system introduced at the Bhairahawa Customs Office could be rendered ineffective following short-term disruptions in the border area.
According to the federation, the reform was implemented to curb revenue leakage, enhance transparency, ensure accountability, and strengthen good governance within customs administration.
FCAN emphasized that customs premises are not public spaces but highly sensitive zones where national revenue is collected, economic security is safeguarded, and the state's sovereign authority is exercised. It stated that ensuring the identification, accountability, and proper documentation of every individual entering such areas is a fundamental principle of modern customs administration.
The federation also recalled Nepal's commitments as a member of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and its adherence to the principles of the Revised Kyoto Convention, stressing that any attempt to dilute these reform initiatives would not serve the country's long-term interests.
Highlighting that trade facilitation and good governance are complementary rather than conflicting objectives, FCAN stated that practical challenges at border points should be addressed through legal and institutional mechanisms instead of weakening the rule of law. It warned that retreating from reform efforts could discourage law-abiding stakeholders while emboldening unauthorized activities.
The federation called on the Prime Minister, the Minister for Finance, and the Department of Customs to provide clear, firm, and consistent policy leadership on customs reforms. It urged the government to prioritize national interest, revenue protection, good governance, and the rule of law over short-term pressures.
FCAN also reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with customs agents across the country, local organizations, and customs authorities to develop a responsible, transparent, technology-driven, and internationally compliant customs system.
Concluding its statement, the federation cautioned that rolling back customs reforms would be more than an administrative decision. "It carries the risk of weakening revenue security, good governance, and public confidence in the state," the statement said, urging the government to continue implementing reform measures without compromise.
