(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

Answer Details

(a) Five functions of an Export Promotion Council are:

1. Market research: Conducting market research to identify potential export markets and opportunities for local businesses.
2. Export development: Developing strategies to promote exports and increase the competitiveness of local businesses in international markets.
3. Product development: Assisting local businesses in the development of export-ready products that meet international quality and safety standards.
4. Capacity building: Providing training and support to local businesses to improve their export readiness, including training on export documentation, packaging, and logistics.
5. Policy advocacy: Advocating for policies and regulations that support the growth of exports and the competitiveness of local businesses in international markets.

(b) Five roles performed by the Customs and Excise Authority towards the growth of commerce are:

1. Trade facilitation: The Customs and Excise Authority plays a critical role in facilitating trade by ensuring that imports and exports comply with regulations and are processed in a timely and efficient manner.
2. Revenue collection: Customs and excise duties are a significant source of government revenue, and the Customs and Excise Authority is responsible for collecting these duties.
3. Protection of public health and safety: The Customs and Excise Authority is responsible for enforcing regulations related to the import and export of goods that may pose a threat to public health and safety, such as drugs and hazardous materials.
4. Protection of intellectual property: The Customs and Excise Authority is responsible for enforcing regulations related to the import and export of goods that may infringe on intellectual property rights, such as counterfeit goods.
5. Border security: The Customs and Excise Authority plays a key role in maintaining border security by preventing the import and export of illegal goods, such as weapons and drugs. This helps to maintain the safety and security of citizens and businesses in the country.