On Wednesday’s ceremony, Customs Administration marked its 18 years of existence since it acquired its sovereignty and control over the customs territory of the Republic of Macedonia. Newly employed customs workers took an oath, while those with 10, 20 and 30 years of service were given awards.
 
Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Zoran Stavreski, who attended the ceremony, said Macedonia could commend with efficient, effective and modern customs service prepared to face the challenges arising from global trends and EU integration processes.
 
– Customs Administration supports the business in the country and is an efficient tool to fight illicit traffic and crime and protect intellectual property, Stavreski pointed out, emphasizing the internal reforms implemented so as to improve working and management processes, significant investments in strengthening technological capacities and harmonization with EU legislation.
 
As for implemented reforms aimed at the business sector, Stavreski pointed out the introduction of one-stop shop system for obtaining the necessary export and import licenses, package of 50 measures within the Regulatory Guillotine Project referring to simplification and acceleration of customs procedures and abolishment of many administrative fees for customs document processing.
 
– As EU candidate country, of special importance is the assessment in the last EU Progress Report for successful results in harmonization with EU customs legislation and progress achieved in building administrative and institutional capacities, Minister Stavreski said, pointing out that European Commission noted better performance in fight against crime and counterfeit.
 
Within Customs Day, blood donor event was organized Monday, providing over 100 units of blood. (MIA)