The customs clearance process for container exports involves four main steps: declaration, inspection, tax assessment, and release. Shippers must timely declare and prepare relevant documents, ensuring authenticity and accuracy, and complete customs declaration, tax payment, and inspection within the legally specified time. An effective operational process can significantly enhance clearance efficiency, especially in export tax refunds.
At the request of the State Customs Committee of Uzbekistan, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic mission to assess its customs valuation system and propose reforms. The assessment covered legal framework, valuation capacity, risk management, post-clearance audit, information technology application, and cooperation mechanisms. The reform aims to improve trade facilitation in Uzbekistan, attract foreign investment, and promote economic growth. The WCO's recommendations are expected to enhance the efficiency and transparency of customs procedures, ultimately contributing to a more favorable business environment.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), is assisting Uzbekistan in enhancing its customs strategic planning capabilities. This initiative aims to help the State Customs Committee (SCC) of Uzbekistan build a more efficient and intelligent customs system by developing strategic roadmaps and designing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). The goal is to embrace openness and digital transformation, improve trade facilitation, and ultimately promote national economic development. The project focuses on strengthening Uzbekistan's ability to implement modern customs practices and contribute to regional and global trade.
A WCO seminar in Tunisia explored advance processing systems and e-commerce challenges to improve customs efficiency. Advance processing uses pre-arrival data for risk assessment, speeding clearance, controlling risks, and facilitating compliance. E-commerce challenges require customs to adopt risk management, technology, and collaboration strategies. Tunisian Customs is actively revising regulations, piloting programs, sharing data, and building capacity to embrace change, ultimately benefiting consumers. This proactive approach aims to streamline processes, enhance security, and adapt to the evolving landscape of international trade in the digital age.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Palestine Customs in modernizing its Human Resource Management (HRM) through a workshop held in Tunis. This support focuses on building a competency-based HRM system, including developing a job directory, competency framework, competency dictionary, and job descriptions. WCO experts will provide remote support to ensure the successful implementation of these reforms. The initiative aims to improve the efficiency and international competitiveness of Palestine Customs by strengthening its workforce and aligning HR practices with international standards.
The World Customs Organization issued Advisory Opinion 23.1, clarifying that low-price transactions of flash sale goods can be used as a basis for customs valuation, provided they comply with the Valuation Agreement and the transaction is genuine and valid. This opinion guides cross-border e-commerce enterprises in compliant declaration, reduces trade risks, and provides customs authorities with scientific valuation methods, promoting the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce. It emphasizes adherence to existing valuation principles while acknowledging the unique characteristics of flash sales.
Customs training managers from the Asia-Pacific region gathered to discuss enhancing the professionalism and capabilities of regional customs personnel through strategic collaboration, competency models, and closed-loop training. The meeting emphasized the importance of innovative learning and technology empowerment. Participants proposed compiling a “Compendium of Good Practices” to promote regional cooperation and build a mutually beneficial “Customs Training Community.” The discussions centered on fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge sharing and developing effective training programs to address evolving customs challenges.
Botswana is actively advancing its advance ruling system to align with international standards and optimize its trade environment. Through self-assessment and international cooperation, Botswana is committed to improving its laws and regulations, strengthening capacity building, and streamlining processes. This aims to provide businesses with clearer and more reliable trade guidance, reduce trade risks, improve customs clearance efficiency, embrace trade facilitation, and enhance international competitiveness. The initiative is expected to significantly benefit businesses operating in Botswana and contribute to the country's economic growth.
Inventory Linking refers to the connection between UK ports and airports with the customs system, representing HMRC's handling of cargo declarations and other matters. It enhances customs efficiency, reduces operational costs, and improves supply chain transparency through automation and real-time data. Opting for ports and airports with inventory linking capabilities can provide import and export businesses with faster and more convenient customs clearance services. This streamlined process contributes to a more efficient and competitive international trade environment.
The Americas and Caribbean (AMS) region, with WCO support, is actively exploring the application of disruptive technologies like blockchain, IoT, and AI in customs. Through case studies and experience sharing, they are promoting the development of smart customs clearance, contributing to global trade facilitation. The establishment of the CLiKC! regional cooperation platform will further facilitate the sharing of technical expertise and best practices among member countries, fostering innovation and efficiency in customs operations across the region.
