KATHMANDU: The Customs Agents Federation of Nepal has reaffirmed its full commitment to implementing a lawful, transparent and accountable customs clearance system, welcoming the Customs Department’s recent directive restricting clearance activities to legally authorized representatives.

The federation said it supports the department’s circular requiring only customs clearance representatives officially appointed under existing laws to handle the clearance of goods, while preventing unauthorized individuals from participating in the process.

According to the federation, maintaining a clear distinction between authorized representatives and unauthorized persons is essential for ensuring transparency, accountability and orderly customs administration.

It said the directive strengthens the legal status and responsibilities of customs agents, while helping curb unauthorized practices, improve professional accountability and promote good governance.

The federation and licensed customs agents across the country said they are making necessary preparations to fully comply with the Customs Act, regulations and directives issued by the department. They also reaffirmed their commitment to personally performing the responsibilities assigned to them under the law.

The federation said effective implementation of the legal framework would also provide an opportunity to assess the existing customs clearance system in terms of efficiency, trade facilitation, revenue collection and professional standards.

It stressed that any practical or structural difficulties arising during implementation should not be considered grounds for bypassing the law. Instead, such issues should be addressed through institutional dialogue with the Customs Department and the government, based on facts and practical experience.

The federation further clarified that it does not support unauthorized representation, misuse of customs licenses or any form of illegal practice.

It emphasized that the issue is not about including or excluding any particular individual or group, but about ensuring that customs clearance is conducted strictly within the legal framework, with clearly defined authority, responsibility and accountability.

The Customs Agents Federation of Nepal said it will continue to work as a responsible professional partner of the government and customs administration to strengthen revenue protection, facilitate legitimate trade, promote transparency and good governance, and help build a modern and accountable customs administration.

The federation reiterated that compliance with the law is a shared responsibility, while practical lessons from implementation should provide a basis for timely legal and policy reforms where necessary.