Imagine cross-border trade as a highway where goods flow seamlessly, businesses operate efficiently, and national economies thrive. This vision is becoming reality through the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Recently, Moldova took a significant step forward as the World Customs Organization (WCO) helped launch the "Mercator Program" in the country.
"Mercator Program": Advancing Moldova's Trade Modernization
From July 15-23, 2024, a WCO expert team conducted an intensive diagnostic assessment of Moldova's Customs Service (MCS). This mission formed part of Phase II of the Global Trade Facilitation Program (PMFE), a collaboration between WCO and Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). Through bilateral meetings with MCS officials, cross-border regulators, and private sector representatives, plus on-site inspections of key facilities, the team evaluated Moldova's implementation of WTO's TFA.
The assessment identified opportunities for improvement in streamlining customs procedures, enhancing transparency, and strengthening interagency cooperation. Based on these findings, WCO experts worked with Moldovan authorities to prioritize technical assistance areas and develop a detailed implementation plan, marking the official launch of the Mercator Program in Moldova.
PMFE Phase II: Building on Previous Successes
Moldova first received PMFE technical assistance during 2022-2023, focusing on expedited clearance procedures for emergency and humanitarian aid. These process improvements facilitated critical cross-border shipments, maintained economic stability, and kept supply chains operational. Building on this foundation, Moldova became a full Phase II beneficiary country in February 2024.
The expanded program will deepen cooperation in several key areas:
- Regulatory transparency: Improving access to trade regulations to reduce compliance costs
- Simplified customs procedures: Reducing bureaucratic hurdles to accelerate clearance
- Interagency coordination: Enhancing information sharing between government entities
- Technology adoption: Implementing digital solutions like e-payments and paperless processing
- Capacity building: Strengthening customs personnel training programs
Global Impact of the Mercator Program
The Mercator Program represents a WCO global initiative assisting developing nations with TFA implementation to stimulate trade growth. Since taking effect in 2017, the TFA stands as WTO's first multilateral trade agreement, projected to reduce global trade costs by 14.3% when fully implemented.
Through technical assistance and training, the program helps countries realize these benefits while improving their trade competitiveness. This initiative contributes not only to national economic development but also to strengthening the global trading system.
SECO-WCO Partnership: Driving Trade Modernization
SECO and WCO have emerged as leading forces in global trade facilitation. SECO's economic development expertise complements WCO's customs specialization, creating effective technical assistance programs. Their collaboration through PMFE and similar initiatives demonstrates how coordinated international efforts can produce measurable improvements in trade efficiency.
Moldova's Path Forward
While the Mercator Program presents significant opportunities for Moldova, successful implementation requires overcoming challenges including intergovernmental coordination, staff training, and technology adoption. Addressing these systematically will maximize the program's economic benefits and support Moldova's integration into global trade networks.
As implementation progresses, Moldova's experience may offer valuable lessons for other developing countries pursuing trade modernization. The continued partnership between WCO, SECO, and Moldovan authorities positions the country for sustained improvements in trade efficiency and economic growth.