The chamber has stated that a facilitation cell be created at every port to ease problems faced by importers and exporters. It has further stated that an in-depth analysis of the working of the customs department was required to be carried out. ``There is a need to do a comprehensive analysis of the management systems, more specifically in areas of movement of documents, which would enable putting in place proper working systems thereby reducing unnecessary bottlenecks,'' a chamber press statement said.

CII felt that the facilitation cell, manned by competent and knowledgeable officials, could be monitored by the industry association. The existence of such a machinery will instill confidence among exporters, besides assisting the importers and exporters in day-to-day operations, the chamber felt.

It has further stated that a statutory body should beset up with representatives of finance, commerce and industry ministries to review issues relating to imports and exports at regular intervals and find solutions. The views of this body should be respected by various ministries.

The chamber has also advocated the need to introduce a mechanism for accountability relating to the decision taken by any customs official. It felt that accountability would eliminate any chances of arbitrariness and harrasment.

``There is no responsibility and a time-bound programme for various government agencies such as customs, local authorities etc'' and all time restrictions only applied to exporters. Other suggestions include networking all major customs housed by computers to reduce the delay in logging of the duty exemption entitlement certificate issued under duty exemption scheme.