Since 2016, the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) has introduced the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) regulations, requiring shippers to provide VGM information before loading containers. This ensures the safety and compliance of container transportation. Neglecting this requirement may result in containers being unable to be loaded onto ships, impacting the transport of goods.
Recently, customs reports indicate a significant increase in non-compliance issues related to wood packaging in our country. Packaging that lacks the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) mark or is found to contain live harmful organisms may lead to goods being rejected and incurring high costs. Companies must strictly adhere to wood packaging quarantine standards to avoid economic losses.
The Hague Protocol, as a significant amendment to the Warsaw Convention of 1955, clarified the regulations governing international air transport. It established clearer standards for passenger tickets, baggage tickets, and cargo transportation, holding carriers accountable for errors in information provided by shippers. This marked a modernization of the air transport industry and strengthened the protection of the rights of all parties involved in transportation.
With the assistance of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Comoros has upgraded its national commodity nomenclature to the HS 2012 version and signed the instrument of accession to the HS Convention. This aims to improve Comoros' trade efficiency, tariff revenue, and international image, bringing new opportunities for its economic development. Capacity building will follow to enhance customs officers' understanding and application of the HS.
Mozambique's accession to the International Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, becoming the 145th contracting party, signifies an acceleration of its trade facilitation process. The Harmonized System, serving as a 'universal language' for international trade, simplifies customs procedures and promotes trade statistics, positively impacting both Mozambique's and global trade development. Looking ahead, the Harmonized System will increasingly focus on technological advancements, environmental protection, and trade security.
The IMO's SOLAS Convention VGM amendment aims to enhance shipping safety but introduces compliance costs and operational pressures for the shipping industry. This article analyzes the background, impact, and response strategies to the VGM amendment. It emphasizes that strengthening regulation, supporting SMEs, fostering collaboration, and embracing technology are crucial to mitigating challenges. Ultimately, the goal is to transform this 'sweet burden' into a driving force for industry development.
The WCO assessed the Uganda Revenue Authority's capacity to enforce the CITES Convention. The assessment revealed shortcomings, leading to the development of an improvement plan. This plan aims to combat the illegal trade in wild flora and fauna by strengthening customs enforcement and ensuring compliance with CITES regulations. The initiative seeks to enhance the URA's effectiveness in detecting, preventing, and suppressing wildlife trafficking, contributing to broader wildlife conservation efforts.
HS 2028 refines HS codes for plastic waste to more accurately identify waste regulated under the Basel Convention. This aims to support customs enforcement and corporate compliance, jointly addressing the global plastic pollution challenge and building a new order for green trade. By providing more specific classifications, HS 2028 facilitates better tracking and management of plastic waste, contributing to the effective implementation of international environmental agreements and promoting sustainable trade practices.
With funding from Sweden, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of the Uganda Revenue Authority's (URA) capacity to enforce the CITES Convention. This initiative, under the INAMA project, aims to enhance the URA's ability to combat illegal wildlife trade. The assessment included institutional reviews, officer training, and field visits. This lays the foundation for future cooperation to protect endangered wildlife species and combat wildlife trafficking.
Switzerland, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), has launched the Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) to enhance the efficiency of Ukrainian Customs and improve the business environment. Based on the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and the WCO's Revised Kyoto Convention, the project provides technical assistance, capacity building, and resource support to help Ukraine achieve trade facilitation. This initiative aims to reduce costs for businesses, enhance competitiveness, promote foreign investment, and ultimately benefit consumers.
