Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has urged vehicle importers and their agents to be transparent in vehicle identification number (VIN) declaration.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC), PTML, Saidu Abba Yusuf, stated this at a stakeholders’ sensitisation meeting on VIN valuation yesterday.

He dispelled the rumour that the VIN method had been cancelled, noting that the valuation process remains fully operational and effective.

He said the TRIM numbers are critical in identifying distinct versions or tiers within a specific car model.

The CAC said the TRIM of vehicles is not the same for all brands while urging declarants to have their transaction values.

He blamed some declarants for not being transparent because they input what they think is the lowest base value, which necessitates interventions like demand notices and alerts.

Yusuf said Section 24 of the NCS Act (NCSA) 2023 provides for advance ruling for stakeholders to submit to the NCS before a transaction.

This, according to the Controller, is a unique trade facilitation method provided for by the new law.

He advised the importers and their agents to apply invoice and transaction values as a way of promoting transparency and building integrity in the trade process of vehicle clearance.

The CAC who described the meeting as being in line with the law also said customs-stakeholders partnership is a provision of section 29 NCSA 2023 and also in tandem with World Customs Organisation (WCO) and World Trade Organisation (WTO) trade facilitation thrusts, which encourage consultations.

He reminded the stakeholders that the use of code 846 for clearing non-standard VIN has been further modified to reduce human contact through what he called e-846, which according to him saves time and makes trade easier.

“I must commend the system because the reduction of human contact is very effective and beneficial to all as it saves time. I monitor electronically from my office and can confirm that my officers are implementing it diligently.

“Wherever you are experiencing a delay in the process under my command, please draw my attention to it. My doors are open and will be more open to all of you. The help desk headed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer is active and responding to all inquiries online and in real-time,” Yusuf said.