01-Jun-2004

On 1 June 2004, Shenzhen Entry-exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau (IQB) and Yantian International Container Terminals (YICT) signed a Memorandum of Co-operation to strengthen port supervision and increase inspection and quarantine efficiency. Both parties are committed to achieving a close co-operation that will enable expedited inspection and release of inbound and outbound cargo and containers via Yantian. The new procedure will allow containers to be transported through the port as efficiently as possible, with minimized inspection/release periods.

One of the aims of this co-operation is to take full advantage of YICT’s available information technologies. With the IQB’s Seaport Express Inspection System, YICT will provide the IQB with accurate and real-time computer data, including information on vessel arrivals and departures, container movements and trucks entering and leaving the port. The introduction of electronic application and inspection will gradually reduce the amount of paper documentation, with inspection/release instructions being sent by the IQB to the terminal.

In addition, both parties have made great progress in express clearance of import containers. In the future, empty containers will be handled under the mode of “pre-declaration, classified management and inspection & release at the gatehouse”, with random inspections being carried out at the gatehouse. YICT will set up a special lane for import empty containers and assist the IQB with inspection and release procedures.

“Using the latest IT, the IQB has simplified its clearance procedures by taking innovative supervisory measures. These efforts will create an information-intensive and efficient clearance environment for inspection and quarantine in Yantian, and more importantly save cost and time for enterprises,” remarked Mr. Kenneth Tse, Director and General Manager of YICT.