PNG Customs Boss Pushes for 'Open Door' Policy on Trade

The man in charge of Papua New Guinea’s borders has called for a new era of teamwork between the government and the private sector, insisting that the country’s economic future depends on it.

Customs Chief Commissioner David Towe made the rallying cry this week at the 9th Customs Business Consultative Forum (CBCF) in Port Moresby. Addressing a packed house of over 150 industry players at the APEC Haus, the Commissioner stressed that the "us and them" mentality is a thing of the past, urging for a unified front to secure the nation’s borders while keeping trade flowing.

He told the audience that the annual forum is not just a talkfest but a critical lifeline for the supply chain. It provides a space for the private sector and government watchdogs to hash out problems, from dodgy imports to bureaucratic red tape, to ensure that legitimate business isn't held up by red tape or criminal activity.

Chief Commissioner Towe also gave an update on some key modernisation projects getting underway. He highlighted the progress on the National Single Window platform, a joint venture with the National Trade Office that aims to cut through the layers of paperwork by digitising the way government agencies process trade documents.

On the enforcement side, Towe maintained that Customs is getting smarter with its operations. Instead of searching every single box, the authority is using an intelligence-led approach to target only the high-risk cargo. This, he said, allows the "good guys" to get their goods through the system faster.

He further revealed that a comprehensive review of the Customs Act is currently in the works, and he called for stakeholders to put their two cents in to ensure the law is fit for purpose in the modern era.

"We must work together to protect our borders and facilitate trade, which is the lifeblood of our economy," Mr Towe said.