Mongolia has modernized its customs inspection procedures to speed up trade and reduce delays for citizens. Following the Prime Minister’s directive, First Deputy Prime Minister Uchral Nyam-Osor led a working group titled “Increase Exports and Support Trade.”
First, the working group instructed the Authority for Government Supervision to inspect the General Customs Office. Over 14 days starting July 24, the team identified 141 issues and 136 risks. They concluded that 82 percent of these problems resulted from internal organizational factors, which the Customs Office could fix directly.
Consequently, the Customs Office revised its customs inspection procedures. Officials collected 362 proposals from 18,000 citizens, businesses, and organizations. They incorporated these suggestions to ensure full compliance with national legislation.
Now, the updated procedures set clear time limits. Vehicles entering the customs zone must complete inspections within one hour, and exit requests follow the same rule. Furthermore, traders can submit customs declarations electronically up to 72 hours in advance, saving valuable time. A new digital system also allows traders and citizens to track cargo location and inspection status in real time.
Previously, road customs inspections included 85 steps, with 55 decisions depending on senior inspectors. Now, digital systems handle most actions. This change removes bureaucratic bottlenecks, prevents subjective decisions, and eases citizens’ burden.
Additionally, the reforms include mandatory electronic submission of declarations, automatic inspector assignment, and direct uploading of X-ray images. Officials now weigh goods and vehicles upon entry, and digital manifests transfer items between customs units within three hours. The risk-based inspection status is also fully automated.
Overall, the revised customs inspection procedures aim to modernize border operations, speed up trade, and ensure transparency. By implementing these reforms, Mongolia promotes efficiency and strengthens compliance.
