OREANDA-NEWS. June 04, 2010. Without simplifying the conditions for business dealing rapid recovery of Ukrainian economy is impossible. Unfortunately, quite often tax and customs services violate the principles of its work and hinder the development of entrepreneurial activity. Such an opinion was expressed today by Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine Serhiy Tigipko while commenting on numerous appeals of businessmen regarding misconduct of some customs officials. Business grumblings primarily caused by requirements to artificially overprice imported goods, the increase of the cost of certification activities, etc.

"The main problem consists in overpricing of imported goods. I think it is the sabotage on the part of those customs officers who have received quite serious tasks concerning fees, but do not want to work professionally with business and seek joint solutions, and mechanically raise the cost of imported goods", said Serhiy Tigipko.

The official warns that such practices can cause a return to the realities of the past, when large-scale bribes to customs officers destroyed businesses.

"The duty of customs authorities consists in finding along with business reserves to increase budget revenues. And these reserves are considerable. The practice of illegal extortion from businessmen ultimately leads only to a reduction in payments", considers Serhiy Tigipko.

The Vice Prime Minister stressed that, as a result of this week meeting with businessmen and representatives of the Customs Service, employers identified 17 specific items that include immediate steps to resolve the situation.

All these measures must be discussed with the business at the Co-ordinating council under the State Customs Service. The Vice Prime Minister expressed hope that parties will find common ground and conflicts will not arise in the future. "If this not happens, the Cabinet will demonstrate the political will and change by its decisions the situation for the better for business", said the Vice Prime Minister.