Imagine a nation where customs valuation functions had long been outsourced to external entities, leaving the country without its own compass in the vast ocean of global trade. This dependence not only weakened control over a crucial economic artery but also limited autonomy and influence in international commerce. When such a nation decides to reclaim its steering wheel and rebuild domestic customs valuation capabilities, what challenges emerge? What courage and wisdom are required?
The Journey Begins
Burkina Faso, a landlocked West African nation, faced precisely this situation. For years, its customs valuation functions had been outsourced to a private inspection company, impacting both tax revenue and the effectiveness of trade regulation. Determined to change this, the Burkina Faso Customs Directorate (DGD) embarked on a mission to rebuild its valuation capabilities and reclaim regulatory sovereignty.
This ambitious undertaking required technical assistance, which the DGD sought from the World Customs Organization (WCO). The WCO's support illuminated the path forward, helping Burkina Faso gradually establish a sustainable, efficient customs valuation system.
WCO Technical Assistance: Building Capacity, Not Dependency
The WCO's approach focused on capacity building rather than temporary solutions. The comprehensive program aimed to equip Burkina Faso Customs with core competencies, professional expertise, and robust systems—ultimately achieving autonomous valuation capabilities.
The multi-phase project began successfully in November 2016 with an initial diagnostic assessment in Ouagadougou. This critical first step examined Burkina Faso's existing import valuation control system while considering the private inspection company's role in pre-shipment and destination procedures.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment
A team of WCO valuation experts conducted thorough evaluations through:
- Working sessions with DGD department heads and managers
- Field visits to operational units observing clearance and valuation practices
- Engagement with private sector stakeholders as customs partners
The assessment covered five key dimensions:
- Organizational structure: Evaluating departmental coordination and staffing adequacy
- Process design: Reviewing compliance with international standards and anti-undervaluation measures
- Human capacity: Assessing professional competencies and training needs
- Technological infrastructure: Examining tools for valuation accuracy and efficiency
- Risk management: Evaluating systems for identifying and controlling valuation risks
Public-Private Dialogue
The WCO team facilitated constructive discussions with private sector representatives, identifying operational challenges including:
- Information gaps regarding valuation regulations
- Perceived high compliance costs
- Communication barriers with customs authorities
Strategic Recommendations
The WCO presented actionable recommendations aligned with WTO Valuation Agreement principles:
- Implementing robust risk management systems
- Strengthening post-clearance audit capabilities
- Enhancing valuation officer training programs
- Improving information sharing with domestic and international partners
- Updating legal frameworks to reflect international standards
- Adopting advanced technologies like data analytics and AI
Roadmap for Reform
The concluding report to DGD leadership outlined:
- Current system strengths (e.g., officer dedication, progressive improvements)
- Existing limitations (e.g., skills gaps, underdeveloped risk management)
- Concrete improvement pathways
Broader Implications
This technical assistance carries significance beyond Burkina Faso:
- Potential revenue increases through improved valuation accuracy
- Enhanced customs administration efficiency
- Greater trade facilitation through streamlined processes
- A model for other developing nations pursuing valuation autonomy
As Burkina Faso Customs continues this transformative journey with WCO support, the nation moves closer to establishing an independent, effective valuation system—one that will strengthen economic governance and amplify its voice in global trade.