As global trade navigates increasingly complex waters, efficient customs management serves as the critical engine ensuring smooth operations. Peru's National Superintendence of Customs and Tax Administration (SUNAT) recognizes this imperative and is actively pursuing strategic upgrades to meet growing trade challenges.
Strategic Collaboration Advances Customs Modernization
A two-week virtual workshop (May 24-June 4, 2021) marked a significant milestone in the partnership between SUNAT and the Global Trade Facilitation Program (PMFE), a joint initiative of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). Conducted under the Mercator Program framework, the workshop focused on refining SUNAT's strategic objectives and establishing a robust Key Performance Indicator (KPI) system.
Through expert guidance and intensive discussions, SUNAT officials gained deeper insights into strategic planning while learning international best practices. This knowledge transfer injects new momentum into Peru's customs modernization efforts.
Expert Support Translates Strategy Into Action
WCO specialists worked closely with SUNAT to analyze current operations and develop tailored recommendations. The collaboration produced a customized strategic roadmap for Peruvian customs, along with an integrated control panel featuring potential KPIs for real-time performance monitoring.
These tools will enable SUNAT to better assess operational efficiency while maintaining alignment with international standards. The strategic map provides clear direction for future development, addressing both immediate needs and long-term objectives.
Ongoing Partnership For Trade Facilitation
SUNAT plans to implement the workshop's outcomes in late 2021 through continued collaboration with PMFE. The program will provide ongoing technical support and capacity building to advance trade facilitation measures in Peru.
This sustained partnership demonstrates both organizations' commitment to enhancing global trade connectivity. By strengthening customs operations in Peru, the initiative contributes to broader economic growth and regional stability.
Global Initiative Driving Trade Efficiency
The PMFE program operates across multiple fronts to support developing economies in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Its comprehensive approach includes:
Capacity Building: Training customs officials in modern management techniques
Technical Assistance: Implementing advanced systems for electronic declarations and risk management
Policy Guidance: Helping governments develop trade-friendly regulations
International Cooperation: Facilitating knowledge exchange between customs administrations
SUNAT's Pivotal Role In Peru's Economy
As Peru's primary revenue collection and trade oversight body, SUNAT performs essential functions including:
Revenue Administration: Managing income tax, VAT, and customs duties
Trade Regulation: Overseeing imports/exports and enforcing trade controls
Anti-Smuggling Operations: Combating illicit trade activities
Facilitation Measures: Streamlining cross-border commerce
The agency's effective operations directly support Peru's economic development through revenue generation and trade promotion.
Measuring Performance For Continuous Improvement
Key Performance Indicators serve as vital metrics for assessing customs effectiveness. Common KPIs include:
Cargo Release Times: Tracking goods processing efficiency
Inspection Rates: Balancing security with trade flow
Revenue Collection: Measuring fiscal contribution
User Satisfaction: Evaluating service quality
Regular KPI monitoring enables customs administrations to identify improvement opportunities and maintain high service standards.