The Tanzania Association of Freight Forwarders Agents (TAFFA) has approved the implementation of the Electronic System for Management of Customs Agents' Lower Fees (T-CAMS). This decision was made during a special general meeting in Dar es Salaam, where members discussed and clarified how the system would work. The meeting allowed members to ask questions, provide opinions, and receive explanations before voting in favor of the system's implementation through Capital Pay International.
Some TAFFA members had expressed concerns about the system due to conflicting information they had received. However, explanations provided by the TAFFA leadership enabled them to understand their responsibilities and how T-CAMS would operate. One of the company directors, Godwin, stated that the leadership had clarified the system's workings, leading to a unanimous approval without any objections.
The discussion also covered financial matters and costs associated with the system. According to information provided during the meeting, members' funds would not be deducted through T-CAMS, and system costs would be separated from Agency Fees. Members were also informed that a 30% deduction procedure was not part of the presented system.
The decision comes as the government emphasizes the use of electronic systems in clearing and forwarding activities to increase transparency and control in the sector. TAFFA President Edward Urio stated that the association's leadership aims to protect members' interests during the system's implementation and ensure it adheres to legal requirements set by the government.
Urio mentioned that TAFFA's goal is to ensure the system's implementation is transparent and follows the law, specifically the Government Notice No. 83 of 2026, regarding the use of electronic systems in reporting and declaring clearing and forwarding service fees. The system aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and adherence to minimum service fees by clearing and forwarding companies.
From TAFFA's perspective, the system's implementation is expected to help the sector operate within the law and reduce potential challenges arising from non-compliance with established procedures. The association believes that T-CAMS will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of customs agents' operations.
The implementation of T-CAMS is a significant step towards modernizing and regulating the clearing and forwarding sector in Tanzania. The system is expected to bring about positive changes, including increased transparency and accountability, and TAFFA members have shown their support for its implementation.
Key points
- TAFFA approves implementation of T-CAMS electronic system for customs agents
- System aims to enhance transparency and accountability in clearing and forwarding sector
- Implementation expected to reduce challenges and improve sector's efficiency
