The two year, third phase of the Angolan Customs Expansion and Modernisation Programme (CEMP) was ratified by the Court of Audit in December. Despite the effects of the global economic downturn on oil and diamond exports, Angola has demonstrated its continuing commitment to the CEMP. While this may be due in part to the significant and sustained increase in revenue collection achieved over the life of the programme (to US$4 billion per annum from only US$200 million in 2001), the main driver of this and other fiscal reforms continues to be the need to facilitate trade and encourage both domestic and foreign investment.
The role of Crown Agents during this third phase of the programme is directed towards mentoring and supporting Angola, in order that the gains achieved through recruiting and training new staff, modernising working practices and procedures and introducing new legislation and technology solutions can be sustained. However, we are also providing further technical inputs in support of the recent introduction of scanners by Customs and the adoption of new controls over transit cargo. We have already submitted proposals to support the existing TIMS system for five years beyond the end of the existing contract."