Imagine a country with no direct access to the sea, where every import and export must pass through neighboring nations. The economic challenges this creates are immense. Landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) face precisely this predicament. To help these nations overcome their geographic limitations and achieve economic transformation, the World Customs Organization (WCO) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the implementation of the Vienna Programme of Action (VPoA).
Global Commitment to Landlocked Nations
On December 6, 2019, WCO Secretary General Dr. Kunio Mikuriya participated in an interactive panel discussion at UN Headquarters in New York focused on enhancing trade, trade facilitation, and structural economic transformation for LLDCs. This discussion formed part of the comprehensive high-level midterm review of the Vienna Programme of Action for LLDCs (2014-2024). High-level representatives from UNDP, WTO, UNIDO, and UNCTAD also joined the conversation.
During the panel discussion, Dr. Mikuriya outlined WCO's contributions to supporting the VPoA implementation over the previous five years. He emphasized how simplified and harmonized customs procedures are crucial for facilitating trade in LLDCs and transit countries, highlighting relevant WCO tools, programs, and projects developed for this purpose.
Modernizing Transit Systems
To further advance the VPoA implementation, WCO collaborated with UN-OHRLLS, UNECE, and IRU to organize a side event on December 6 focused on modernizing transit processes. The event showcased WCO's tools, programs, and initiatives designed to facilitate transit.
The organization has long worked to improve transit systems in LLDCs through:
- Developing standards for simplified and harmonized border procedures
- Implementing capacity-building initiatives
- Strengthening cooperation and coordination with development partners
As early as November 2014 during the Second UN Conference on LLDCs (which adopted the VPoA), WCO launched its Transit Handbook. In July 2017, it hosted the inaugural Global Transit Conference and published the WCO Transit Guidelines - both tools designed to support coordinated implementation of WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement.
Regional Workshops and Best Practices
Following the Transit Guidelines' release, WCO organized regional workshops across all six WCO regions to promote implementation, discuss challenges and solutions, and collect regional/national best practices in transit. These workshops attracted 260 participants including private sector representatives and delegates from partner international organizations, regional bodies, and development partners.
Currently, WCO is compiling a Compendium of Best Practices in Transit to provide members with practical examples for enhancing transit system efficiency and effectiveness.
Capacity Building and Expert Support
For capacity building, WCO established a roster of accredited experts (English and French speaking) that includes specialists from LLDCs and transit developing countries.
The midterm review culminated in the adoption of political declaration A/74/L.7 by the UN General Assembly. Its "Call to Action" urges UN system entities and relevant international/regional organizations to provide policy, analytical and technical support for corridor development, operation and management. The declaration also encourages LLDCs to reduce "behind-the-border" trade costs by improving transport networks and customs procedures with support from development and trade partners, including through technology-driven ICT solutions.
WCO's Concrete Actions: Paving Trade Pathways
WCO's multifaceted approach includes:
Standardized Border Procedures
Recognizing cumbersome customs processes as primary trade barriers, WCO develops globally harmonized standards to streamline border procedures across declaration, inspection, and release processes.
Capacity Building Programs
Beyond standards, WCO implements technical assistance, training programs, and best practice sharing to help LLDCs develop professional customs administrations capable of executing trade facilitation measures.
Enhanced International Cooperation
WCO strengthens collaboration with international organizations like the UN, World Bank, and regional development banks through joint research, assistance programs, and knowledge exchange.
The WCO Transit Guidelines: A Practical Handbook
This specialized guide offers actionable recommendations and best practices covering all transit transport aspects:
- Definitions and scope: Clarifying transit concepts and applications
- Customs requirements: Detailed documentation, inspection, and guarantee procedures
- Risk management principles: Identifying and mitigating transit risks
- Technology applications: Implementing EDI systems, GPS tracking, and other digital solutions
- International cooperation: Emphasizing information exchange and joint enforcement
Looking Ahead: A Collective Responsibility
While WCO's efforts provide hope for LLDCs, significant challenges remain in overcoming geographic disadvantages. The international community must maintain its commitment to supporting these nations through financial assistance, technology transfer, and trade policy adjustments to achieve sustainable development and a more equitable global economy.