Workers inspect imported equipment parts and components at Inner Mongolia North Hauler Joint Stock Co.[Photo/Baotou Evening News] 

Baotou Customs has taken innovative steps to streamline its customs clearance process -- smoothing the way forwards for the resumption of operations of foreign trade businesses in Baotou city, in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, according to a March 10 report in the Baotou Evening News. 

The customs office has conducted investigations into more than 100 import and export companies in Baotou and provided customized supervision services for key enterprises.

According to officials, Baotou Customs is currently conducting online document verifications through remote transmissions, electronic transmissions and other electronic methods to reduce physical inspections. 

These streamlined clearance methods are helping companies return to normal. Officials said large-scale State-owned enterprises such as Baogang Group, Inner Mongolia First Machinery Group and Inner Mongolia North Heavy Industries Group have already resumed work and production.

A Baotou Customs employee conducts an online "paperless" document review. [Photo/Baotou Evening News] 

Baotou Customs has also adopted contactless methods in imported products sampling and release, as part of its series of coronavirus containment measures.

Officials said it used them when it recently inspected and released 551,000 tons of imported iron ore for Baogang Group for production, with a value of $4.37 million. 

It also applied contactless customs clearance for Inner Mongolia North Hauler Joint Stock Co, to import 540 tons of spare parts and 12 AC electric wheel drive machines.

In addition, Baotou Customs is now open to take 24-hour telephone appointments. 

It also handles remote consultations and document transmissions, conducts online reviews and video supervision services for companies and has set up special windows to ensure the smooth resumption of work and production.