VICTORIA, Seychelles — Minister for Finance, Economic Planning, Trade and Investment, Pierre Laporte, met with clearing agents and officials of the Customs Division at Port Victoria on Thursday, in a working session aimed at tackling procedural delays and the high cost of doing business at the country’s main port.
Minister Laporte, who was accompanied by the principal secretary for Trade, Nathalie Edmond, said the ease of doing business is of vital importance and that lengthy port delays are costing traders money. He acknowledged the work of the Customs Division but said certain hiccups remain. Among the issues raised was the procedural delay when importing bait, which must go through the Seychelles Fisheries Authority (SFA). The minister proposed that registered fishermen receive a blanket approval, while those fishing for leisure would continue to pay regular tax.
Vice-chairman of the Clearing Agency Association, Jimmy Esparon, welcomed the meeting and called for a one-stop shop where clearing agents can serve clients efficiently. A second meeting is scheduled for next week, after which Minister Laporte has indicated that he expects the two entities to address their own challenges, with the ministry providing overall direction.
