«…Customs is a public entity that should have a private turn, institutionally speaking. It would be interesting if it provided formal protection to Argentina, I consider that more important than its way of collecting taxes…»
His tenure at the country's import and export control agency lasted four months, enough time to be able to offer us an evaluation of one of the republic's primary agencies.
Customs News: In what conditions did the agency find you?
Answer: With a completely bureaucratic organization. A situation that should not exist if we want to work to improve its functioning. With personnel that is partly not trained to perform certain functions.
Customs News: What should change in the DGA to improve its operation?
Answer: Customs is a public entity that should take a private turn, institutionally speaking. It would be interesting if it provided formal protection to Argentina, I consider that more important than its way of collecting taxes. But above all it must comply with the commitments made with other countries, so that it can be integrated into the world. It should not be bureaucratized, nor unionized.
Aduana News: What measures were you able to take during your short stay in the organization?
Answer: We did a lot, we managed to promote several projects, without a doubt, for the benefit of the sector. In addition, we managed to carry out proposals presented in previous administrations.
Aduana News: Could you mention some of the measures?
Answer: Yes, for example: the cancellation of the pre-boarding certification, the elimination of detailed declarations (this measure facilitates foreign trade), modification of the border transit resolution, facilitation of auctions, the development of the security system.
We also presented a draft decree and strategic plan at the CIF, for the installation of fourteen (14) integrated border centers. Among other things, the Customs had to be provided with new and better control methods with more technology, so in response to this demand we started the incorporation of non-intrusive elements (scanners) for the control and satellite monitoring of containers.
Aduana News: How do you see exports for 2002?
Answer: Exports in Argentina have been showing notable increases, especially in the agricultural sector. I believe that in 2002 we must aim to maintain these increases, especially in regard to grains and mining, that is, traditional exports. Argentina must be integrated into the world, it must not be left out.
Aduana News is the first Argentine customs newspaper to launch its digital version. With 20 years of experience, its publications and initiatives aim to provide the most relevant knowledge on customs issues in order to contribute to safe trade in the region.
