EFFECT OF AUTOMATION OF CUSTOMS RELEASE PROCESS ON CUSTOMS PERFORMANCE AT THE PORT OF MOMBASA IN KENYA

Abstract

System automation is usually applied to improve customs performance. System automation plays a significant role in simplifying and harmonizing border and administrative procedures. It leads to enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in the customs system. This study sought to establish Effect of automation of customs release process on customs performance at the port of Mombasa in Kenya. This study was founded on the unified theory of rational expectations theory of technology adoption. The study’s target population constituted of 1500 Clearing Agents. The sample size of 306 was determined using Yamane formula. Simple random sampling was adopted to select respondents from the population. The main data collection instrument adopted for this study was the questionnaire which was self-administered to the respondents. The study found out that that enhancing automation of customs verification leads to enhancement of customs performance (β2= 0.313; p < 0.05). It was also concluded that improving system automation will lead to improved customs performance at the port of Mombasa in Kenya. It was recommended that all systems between the Partner Government Agencies which include the Kenya Revenue Authority should be interconnected to improve Customs performance at the Port of Mombasa. Key Words: Automation, Custom Release Process CITATION: Mumia, B. J. (2021). Effect of automation of customs release process on customs performance at the port of Mombasa in Kenya. The Strategic Journal of Business & Change Management, 8 (2), 75 – 85.