(a) State five functions of an Export Promotion Council. (b) Outline five roles performed by the Customs and Excise Authority towards the growth of commerce

(a) Five functions of an Export Promotion Council

1. It formulates and implements policies and programmes that promote and diversify the country's exports, especially non-oil exports.
2. It provides exporters with information on foreign markets, prices and opportunities abroad.
3. It advises the government on export matters and assists in developing export incentives and grants.
4. It organises trade fairs, exhibitions and training to expose local products and educate exporters.
5. It helps to improve the quality and standard of exportable goods so that they can compete in the international market, and assists exporters with documentation.

(b) Five roles of the Customs and Excise Authority towards the growth of commerce

1. Collection of revenue: it collects import and export duties and excise taxes, providing funds the government uses to develop infrastructure that supports commerce.
2. Protection of local industries: by levying tariffs on imports, it shields infant home industries from unfair foreign competition, encouraging local production.
3. Prevention of smuggling and prohibited goods: it checks smuggling and stops the entry of harmful or banned goods, protecting the economy and consumers.
4. Compilation of trade statistics: it records imports and exports, providing data used for planning and trade policy.
5. Facilitation of trade: it clears goods at the ports and borders and enforces trade regulations, ensuring the orderly movement of goods in and out of the country.