(ACP) – The pilot phase of the “River Import” logistics module is set to launch on January 27, as announced Thursday by the User Support Manager of the Comprehensive Single Window Operations Company in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SEGUCE), according to a statement received Friday by ACP.
“For the next step, we are planning the pilot phase because when operationalizing a module, there are always milestones to go through to ensure the procedure is well understood. We will launch the pilot phase on Monday, January 27, and the mandatory phase on February 24, 2025,” stated Trésor Tshadi, SEGUCE’s User Support Manager, as quoted in the statement.
According to the source, users of this “River Import” logistics module are expected to adopt best practices. If these practices are not followed, it could create what is referred to as “false noise” regarding the Single Window platform.
“We will have about one month after the launch of the pilot phase, which provides an opportunity to seek the involvement of all stakeholders to ensure the success of this launch,” said Trésor Tshadi, according to the statement.
Mr. Trésor Tshadi also highlighted some key best practices, such as ensuring that the manifest is entered exclusively through the Single Window and disseminated via Sidonia World. The entry of FXI and FXO shipment file references must also be done in Sidonia, and the documentation bundle in Sidonia must match the one issued in the Single Window.
“The Single Window is the sole entry and exit point for all import and export formalities, as some unscrupulous economic operators today attempt to bypass the Single Window for undisclosed reasons,” he added.
According to the source, the Single Window does not replace any actor, as all parties retain their full authority. Instead, the Single Window serves as a facilitation tool, enabling stakeholders to carry out their operations more efficiently.
SEGUCE is a public-private partnership between the Congolese government and the Veritas Group. Its mission is to develop, deploy, and operate the entire foreign trade process through an electronic platform that is now accessible 24/7 across the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Single Window was established in 2015 via a decree signed by the Prime Minister. ACP/
Translated by LogisT Africa
