On Feb 19, North China's Shanxi province launched the nation's first "port + destination" joint supervision pilot program, which imports copper concentrate via railway transportation and serves as a bonded logistics center at the same time.

Shanxi's key enterprises, including North Copper Co, applied for this pilot program, which customs approved after evaluation. The pilot program involves redesigning the existing customs clearance process to import copper concentrate, shifting tasks such as sampling inspections and solid waste screening, previously conducted at the port, to the destination site.

Following the pilot program's implementation, the time taken to import copper concentrate can be reduced by around three to five days. This effectively lowers enterprises' overall costs regarding port delays and reshipment, enhancing their competitiveness.

"The advantages of the pilot program are evident. We can now choose more actively and diversely when negotiating contracts with suppliers. By using the policies of the Shanxi Fanglue Bonded Logistics Center, we can reduce the pressure of capital occupation," said Sun Wujun, import trade manager of North Copper Co.

Taiyuan Customs fully utilizes the well-equipped supervision facilities in the existing customs bonded supervision sites and seamlessly integrates customs supervision with enterprise operations, providing strong support for developing Shanxi's non-ferrous metal industry.