The implementation of the new rules and procedures on imported bulk and break-bulk shipments has been deferred anew pending the issuance of the Customs regulations on port load and discharge survey.

Bureau of Customs (BoC) Deputy Commissioner Reynaldo Nicolas said the new rules should have been effective last January 4, but has also been delayed considering the requests from the private sector.

A technical working group was created to draft the Customs regulation. Nicolas said public consultations will be conducted with the affected sectors for clarification of the policy and to consider recommendations of other stakeholders.

The ruling for those who are exempted from port surveys and inspection will also be discussed. Nicolas, also a member of CACSC, said they continue to receive and process applications for accreditations from cargo surveying firms.

So far, the committee accredited Cotecna Inspection SA and Bureau Veritas to survey bulk and break-bulk cargoes arriving in the country.

However, Nicolas said they would have to thresh out the issue being raised that some accredited surveyors have no presence in some countries.

Administrative Order 243-A requires a report of CACSC-accredited cargo surveying companies on imported shipments involving bulk and break-bulk cargoes. These are reputable firms with an international office network in the countries exporting to the Philippines and the ports of origin.

The report may be issued by these companies only after a full survey of the quantity, quality, grade, price or value and classification of the bulk and break-bulk cargo.

This new procedure will facilitate the proper examination, classification and valuation of bulk and break-bulk cargoes using measures compliant with Customs international best practices and global trade standards.