2. ASYCUDA Overview
… a summary of the objectives of ASYCUDA implementation projects and features of the software for the Customs computer system.

3. ASYCUDA++
ASYCUDA++ is a computer program developed by UNCTAD as a Customs automatic data processing system.
ASYCUDA was developed in the interests of facilitating international trade and so assist economic development.
The reliance of national revenue on the collection of duties and taxes, and accurate trade statistics, is a strong incentive for the introduction of computers to Customs.

4. ASYCUDA++
…. however, technology is only a part solution to trade facilitation issues.
Many problems experienced by countries are partly the result of inefficient or complex Customs procedures and documentary requirements.
In implementing ASYCUDA UNCTAD encourages the adoption of new procedures and concepts.

5. Objectives UNCTAD’s objective is simply that the
ASYCUDA++
Objectives
UNCTAD’s objective is simply that the
country obtains the maximum possible
benefit from the implementation of
ASYCUDA by: -
Meeting the country’s own national objectives; and
Achieving trade facilitation through standardisation and simplification.

6. In implementing a major project such as ASYCUDA, there are many
factors critical to success.
Effective computer software
is an essential component, but
other contributing factors
are of equal importance…

7. Government & Management Support Project Management
ASYCUDA++
Government &
Management Support
Project Management
And Technical Skills
Facilities and
Equipment
ASYCUDA++ Software

8. All components are essential for the complete success of
an ASYCUDA Implementation
Project.
ASYCUDA++
Visible support by all levels of the National Administration.
Skills in Project Management, Information Technology and modern Customs control methods.
Suitable infrastructure, including office facilities and equipment.
Effective and flexible Customs software, such as ASYCUDA++.

9. ASYCUDA++
Management Support
Management support means that a high level commitment is needed to see that: -
Adequate human and material resources are allocated to support both implementation and long term operations under new procedures.
Any necessary legislative changes are supported and promptly introduced, to allow for new procedures.

10. ASYCUDA++
Management Support
Changing to new processing methods often means that fundamental changes to organisational structures are needed.
Changes mean that new skills are required and staff will need training for new levels of responsibility.

11. ASYCUDA++
Project Management
The task of the Project Management Team is to ensure effective implementation by linking the Project Objectives to the Government and Customs strategies.
Skills transfer is an important part of any Project: -
Technical expertise in Information Technology;
Modern Customs management techniques; and
Project management skills

12. ASYCUDA++
Project Management
The final design and set up of the system to meet national requirements is done by the national team, who are usually regular Customs staff.
The team is also responsible for the procedural changes, local training and implementation.
This is done following training and with the advice and guidance of the Project Experts.

13. ASYCUDA++
Project Management
Project management methodology, quality controls and documentation standards are the responsibility of Project Management.
Through training and skills transfer the national team will learn and do much of the work in the implementation.
System Sustainability is the key objective!

14. Facilities and Equipment
ASYCUDA++
Facilities and Equipment
The introduction of computers means more than just hardware purchase and installation.
Major works are frequently needed at office installation sites.
The provision of communications facilities and changes to office layouts (to accommodate new processes) are often the cause of project delays – if not allowed for in the planning process.

15. Facilities and Equipment
ASYCUDA++
Facilities and Equipment
An incidental but very significant benefit of process change and the adoption of automatic data processing is the improvement in facilities and the working environment of the staff.

16. ASYCUDA++ Objectives A computer system for: Customs Control
Duty and tax collection
Accurate trade statistics
- by using and producing information and data

17. Using and producing.. Information or Data
ASYCUDA++
Using and producing.. Information or Data
ASYCUDA information or data sources include: -
Laws, regulations and policies, of Customs and other agencies
Commercial sources - industry and trade
Customs records and intelligence gathering operations

18. 1. Laws and Policies The system uses or provides information on: -
Information or Data
1. Laws and Policies
The system uses or provides information on: -
Restrictions, prohibitions
National tax regimes
Concessions, exemptions
Customs procedures and controls
Advisory information is made easily accessible to staff and traders

19. 2. Commercial Data Commercial data or information is received from: -
Information or Data
2. Commercial Data
Commercial data or information is received from: -
Traders (importers and exporters)
Customs brokers/agents
Carriers, transport companies
Port and airport authorities

20. 3. Customs Sources Information or Data
ASYCUDA assists Customs Administrations in collecting, analysing and using information from: -
External intelligence sources, such as industry information and from the public
Inspection reporting; risk measurement procedures and selective examinations
Database analysis
Management information systems; audit activities

21. Customs Controls ASYCUDA provides data validation and security:
Consistency checking of Customs declarations
International standard data codes
Checks using acceptable unit value range comparisons
Full selectivity and profiling options
Integrity of data storage and transaction details

22. Duty & Tax Collection Flexible and reliable tax calculation mechanisms
Easy to set up for any tax situation
Record full details of duties forgone through concessions and relief schemes
Simple updates and maintenance
Fully integrated with cashier and accounting

23. Trade Statistics
ASYCUDA++ collects and stores complete data for national statistics: -
Standard report formats for quick response to data extraction requests
Flexible: data downloadable to PC databases for sorting and reporting
SQL query for routine reporting
Data security

24. See also the presentations on: -
ASYCUDA++
ASYCUDA++ User interface
ASYCUDA ++ Modules
Direct Trader Input (DTI)