The Syndicate of Food Importers, chaired by Hani Bohsali, called on the relevant ministries and departments to take exceptional and rapid measures to expedite customs clearance and formalities for imported food products at the port of Beirut.
This appeal was made in light of the delicate circumstances Lebanon is currently facing, to ensure the delivery of these products to risk-free warehouses to preserve the country’s food security.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the syndicate emphasized that this call is not a complaint, but rather an effort to draw officials’ attention to the urgent need for swift action to transport foodstuffs arriving at the port to safe locations.
The syndicate pointed out that the formalities for withdrawing food products from the port involve several entities, including the Ministries of Agriculture, Economy, Finance and Industry, as well as Customs and Laboratories. They stressed that full coordination and cooperation among all these parties are necessary to develop an emergency plan to evacuate the goods and transport them to warehouses.
Head of the Syndicate of Food Importers Hani Bohsali reassured the public on Monday evening, stating that there is no need to panic, as the available food stocks in Lebanon are sufficient for at least three months.
