The American Chamber of Commerce continued its tradition of kicking off the year with the organization of the Business Forum with the General Customs Directorate, further strengthening an ongoing dialogue that has led to the discussion of a significant business-related issues over the years.
Mr. Grant Van Cleve, President of the American Chamber of Commerce, expressed gratitude to Mr. Genti Gazheli, General Director of Customs, for the institution’s openness in addressing business concerns, demonstrating transparency and public accountability. This positive collaboration has been reflected in the Business Index, with Executive Director Mr. Neritan Mullaj noting, “This cooperation has yielded tangible results, which is evident from the consistently positive feedback from members about customs administration over the years.”
Similarly, the General Director of Customs, Mr. Genti Gazheli, emphasized that businesses act as a mirror for the customs administration. The upcoming meeting with AmCham is particularly timely, as the Albanian Customs has successfully digitized 100% of its services, taking the Customs-Business relationship to a new level.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for Ms. Alketa Uruçi, Head of the Tax and Customs Committee, to highlight key issues raised by American Chamber members. The topic of reference prices was revisited, with the General Directorate of Customs clarifying that in over 97% of cases, the transaction value (invoice) is used for customs valuation. Only for certain goods, like stock market items or products from China, adjustments were made to maintain fair market competition, one of customs administration’ primary goals.
The discussion also covered the need for increased digital interaction between customs and other institutions such as the National Food Authority and the Ministry of Health, aimed at reducing the time that imported goods stay in customs. Customs and AmCham leaders encouraged members to apply for the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status and for obtaining authorizations for simplified procedures, aiming to simplify customs procedures.
The General Director of Customs also updated members on the administration’s priorities. “Our main focus continues to be on advancing Information Technology. In collaboration with AKSHI and UNCTAD, we have fully modernized and digitalized Albania’s customs services. In 2025, we will continue to focus on Artificial Intelligence and data-driven operations for risk analysis, ensuring compliance with regulations, securing budget revenues, and fighting illegal activities, all while fostering fair competition and supporting economic growth,” he stated.
The meeting provided Chamber members with a unique opportunity to engage directly with the Director General of Customs and his technical team, exchanging views on the functioning of customs operations
