Written by The Banking Post
The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has allowed businesses to use both their existing and newly reassigned Business Identification Numbers (BINs) for customs-related activities until November 30, 2026, easing the transition following the restructuring of VAT commissionerates.
The temporary measure is aimed at preventing disruptions to import and export operations as the revenue authority implements administrative reforms to expand the tax base, strengthen revenue collection and improve taxpayer services.
Under the restructuring, many businesses have been reassigned to new VAT jurisdictions. While the last four digits of their BINs—which identify the relevant VAT commissionerate and division—have changed, all other business information linked to the BIN remains unchanged.
To facilitate a smooth transition, both the old and new BINs will remain active in the ASYCUDA World customs system until the end of November.
During this period, businesses will be able to complete customs procedures initiated under the previous BIN, including letters of credit (L/Cs), bills of entry, customs declarations and other import-export formalities.
The NBR has advised affected businesses to complete all pending transactions under their old BINs and migrate fully to the new numbers by November 30, 2026.
After the deadline, the old BINs will be automatically deactivated in the ASYCUDA World system, and all customs-related import and export transactions must be processed using the newly assigned BINs.
The revenue authority said the transitional arrangement is designed to ensure uninterrupted trade and economic activities while supporting a more efficient, modern and taxpayer-friendly tax administration.
