General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE) said that they have collected more than $2.69 billion in 2022, an increase of 18.3 per cent over 2021 revenue.
In a February 3 annual meeting in Kep province, GDCE director general Kun Nhem said that the figure indicated an achievement of 104.9 per cent of the plan set in financial law 2022, which earn praised from the government leadership.
“Prime Minister Hun Sen appreciates the efforts and achievements of GDCE leaders and officials at all levels, especially given the challenges we faced in the past year, such as Covid-19, the Russia-Ukraine war, and geopolitical tensions,” Nhem added.
According to a GDCE report, 46.2 per cent of the income was from vehicles and machinery. Mixed consumer goods accounted for 27.6 per cent of the total, petroleum products for 20.3 per cent, and construction materials for 5.9 per cent.
Import volume accounted for over $25.46 billion, an increase of about 11.9 per cent compared to 2021. Most of the imported products are vehicles and machinery, petroleum, raw materials, construction materials, foods.
Export volume accounted for over $22.447 billion, an increase of 16.7 per cent over 2021, with garment exports increasing of 14.1 per cent. Non-garment products jumped 26.2 per cent, while agriculture products improved 6.6 per cent.
Minister of Economy and Finance Aun Pornmoniroth recommended that the GDCE continue to look into tax rationalisation to support local production and the products that meet the daily needs of the people.
He also recommended that the GDCE increase their effectiveness in tax collection. They should do this via imposing taxes consistently, and by imposing penalties on those who violate duties or commit tax evasion. This could be done through increased control of e-commerce, especially with mailed goods.
“The GDCE should also look at decentralising power through its lower entities and utilising modern technology. It should also cooperate more closely with other state and private institutions, and look into the possibility of amending customs laws,” he said.
