NEW X-RAY SCANNERS TO SPEED UP CARGO CLEARANCE

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has signed a contract with Astrophysics Inc. to equip the Livingstone port office with state-of-the-art X-ray cargo scanning technology.

The contract marks a major step forward in improving regional trade and security.

The development will equip ZRA officers with world-class technology to inspect cargo more efficiently, accurately and safely.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lusaka, ZRA Commissioner General Dingani Banda said the initiative underscores said cargo scanners help to strengthen compliance by enabling accurate customs declarations and enabling the timely processing of traffic.

“Initiatives of this nature benefit not only Zambia but also the wider region by strengthening trade facilitation along the six corridors that pass through our country,” he said.

Meanwhile, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Mich Coker said the upgrade is expected to reduce the waiting time for trucks and cargo at the border.

He said the machines will reduce cases of smuggled goods, or dangerous materials across the border.

The Charge d’Affaires commended ZRA for running a transparent procurement process and advancing the modernisation of Zambia’s customs and border operations.

The contract builds on existing cooperation between Astrophysics Inc and ZRA at the Nakonde border post.