Imagine goods clearing customs at unprecedented speeds, trade barriers significantly reduced, and businesses gaining instant competitive advantages in global markets. This vision is becoming reality through the World Customs Organization's (WCO) Mercator Programme, which is developing elite trade facilitation experts to drive customs modernization worldwide. The recent certification of British specialists marks a significant milestone in global trade facilitation efforts.
The Strategic Importance of Mercator Programme
The Mercator Programme focuses on cultivating Mercator Programme Advisors (MPAs) - professionals with international expertise and practical experience. These advisors go beyond traditional customs modernization roles, serving as guides who help national customs authorities implement trade facilitation reforms and modernize processes, particularly in executing the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).
The Multifaceted Value of MPAs
MPAs deliver comprehensive benefits that extend far beyond advisory services:
- Reform Leadership: MPAs provide strategic direction, assisting customs authorities in developing implementation plans to effectively execute TFA provisions and drive systemic reforms.
- Collaboration Facilitation: These experts help establish National Trade Facilitation Committees, creating platforms for government-business dialogue and coordinated action.
- Technical Expertise: With deep knowledge of WCO tools and WTO agreements, MPAs deliver customized solutions for effective reform implementation.
WCO's Certification Framework
Recognizing expertise as the cornerstone of trade facilitation, WCO established a rigorous two-stage MPA certification process:
- Theoretical Training: Candidates must complete intensive workshops demonstrating mastery of essential knowledge and skills.
- Practical Application: Successful participants then serve as co-facilitators in field missions to validate their practical capabilities.
British Experts Lead the Way
From September 7-11, 2015, the UK hosted a landmark WCO pilot workshop in Lincoln to certify the first cohort of MPAs. The comprehensive program featured:
- In-depth presentations on customs modernization principles
- Practical exercises including case studies and role-playing scenarios
- Specialized training on TFA implementation requirements
Participants underwent rigorous evaluation across multiple dimensions:
- Technical knowledge assessments on WCO tools and TFA provisions
- Demonstrations of communication and leadership capabilities
- Strategic dialogue exercises with senior customs officials
Four British experts successfully completed this demanding certification process, qualifying them to support strategic planning and TFA implementation missions worldwide.
Business Implications
The expansion of MPA certification promises tangible benefits for international commerce:
- Streamlined customs procedures reducing clearance times and operational costs
- Reduced trade barriers lowering market entry thresholds
- Enhanced transparency creating more predictable business environments
Future Outlook
The WCO plans additional certification workshops throughout 2015-2016 to expand the global network of MPAs. This growing expertise pool will accelerate trade facilitation worldwide, creating new opportunities for businesses engaged in international trade.