The Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL) plays a crucial role in trade promotion and facilitation within Lesotho, beyond its core function of revenue collection. Its services and programs are designed to streamline cross-border trade, making it more efficient and attractive for businesses.
Key roles, services, and programs emphasizing trade promotion and facilitation include:
- Customs and Border Management – Border Management Authority (BMA): The RSL is central to facilitating the movement of goods across borders. Its efficient customs procedures and clear regulations are fundamental for importers and exporters.
This includes:- Streamlined Clearance Processes: Efforts to simplify customs procedures, reduce processing times, and minimize bureaucracy directly contribute to trade facilitation.
- Risk Management Systems: The RSL employs risk management systems to identify high-risk consignments while allowing low-risk goods to pass through quickly, accelerating legitimate trade.
- Authorised Economic Operator (AEO): RSL implements an AEO programme. This programme grants trusted traders benefits such as faster customs clearance, fewer physical inspections, and priority treatment. The AEO program significantly enhances trade facilitation by rewarding compliance and efficiency.
- Single Window Initiatives: RSL is a key stakeholder in any national Single Window initiative. A Single Window system allows traders to submit all required regulatory documents (customs, health, agriculture, etc.) at a single entry point, reducing duplication, saving time, and improving coordination among border agencies. The RSL’s role would be to integrate its customs processes into this unified platform.
- One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs): The RSL is a critical participant in the operation of One-Stop Border Posts. At OSBPs, customs and immigration formalities for both countries are conducted in a single facility, either on the outbound or inbound side. This drastically reduces transit times and costs for traders, directly promoting regional trade and integration. The RSL’s presence and coordinated operations at OSBPs are vital for their effectiveness.
- Application of Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs): While primarily a tax service, the RSL’s administration of DTAs promotes trade and investment by preventing double taxation of income for businesses operating across borders. This provides certainty and reduces the tax burden, making Lesotho a more attractive place for international trade and foreign direct investment.
- Information and Advisory Services: The RSL provides information on customs duties, trade regulations, and procedures, which is essential for businesses engaged in cross-border trade. Clear and accessible information helps traders understand and comply with requirements, reducing delays and potential penalties.
By actively engaging in and promoting these services and programs, the RSL significantly contributes to creating a predictable, efficient, and cost-effective trading environment in Lesotho, thereby fostering economic growth and regional integration.