Imagine cargo clearance efficiency multiplied several times over, business operational costs significantly reduced, and international trade flowing more smoothly than ever before. This vision is no longer a distant dream but an achievable future for Colombia, as the World Customs Organization (WCO) and Colombia's National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) join forces to launch the Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP).
Trilateral Partnership for Trade Transformation
On September 30, 2019, during the GTFP launch ceremony in Colombia, the WCO, DIAN, and the program's funding partner—the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)—signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement establishes a three-year cooperation framework, with WCO committing to comprehensive capacity-building support for DIAN in two critical areas: trade facilitation and organizational development.
WCO's Comprehensive Support Package
Over the next three years, DIAN will benefit from a carefully designed program including:
- National and regional workshops: Bringing together domestic and international experts to share best practices and discuss emerging trends in trade facilitation.
- Technical guidance: WCO experts will provide customized support to address operational challenges and enhance professional capabilities.
- Specialized training: Targeted programs focusing on key areas such as risk management and post-clearance audits.
- Mentoring and follow-up: Continuous support to ensure effective implementation of training outcomes with necessary adjustments.
These initiatives will concentrate on DIAN's priority areas, particularly:
- Risk-based customs procedures: Developing sophisticated risk assessment systems for more targeted inspections and faster clearance.
- Post-clearance audits: Strengthening enforcement capabilities to combat smuggling and trade violations.
Enhancing Risk Management for Efficient Clearance
Modern customs operations rely heavily on effective risk management. By implementing scientific assessment systems, customs authorities can allocate limited resources more efficiently—focusing on high-risk shipments while expediting low-risk cargo. WCO will assist DIAN in developing a comprehensive risk management framework covering:
- Identification of risk factors (origin, commodity type, business credibility)
- Probability and impact assessment
- Control measure implementation
- Continuous monitoring and improvement
Strengthening Post-Clearance Audits
Post-clearance verification represents a crucial component of customs oversight. WCO will support DIAN in enhancing audit capabilities through:
- Strategic audit planning
- Advanced verification methodologies
- Professional auditor development
- Inter-agency and international cooperation
Governance and Strategic Alignment
To ensure program effectiveness, Colombia's Project Steering Committee held its inaugural meeting on the launch day. Comprising senior DIAN officials, this oversight body will monitor progress and approve national-level work plans. Both DIAN and committee members have committed to full implementation of GTFP activities to support Colombia's strategic trade objectives.
These objectives align perfectly with GTFP's goals, including:
- Streamlining clearance processes
- Optimizing risk management
- Combating illicit trade
- Improving service quality
- Expanding international cooperation
The Global Trade Facilitation Programme
GTFP represents a key WCO initiative supporting developing countries in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through technical assistance and capacity building, the program helps nations simplify customs procedures, reduce trade costs, and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
Having demonstrated significant results worldwide, GTFP now brings its expertise to Colombia. With WCO and SECO support, DIAN is well-positioned to achieve its institutional goals and contribute substantially to Colombia's economic development.