This article explores how customs and related departments can enhance collaboration and efficiency through the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the Revised Kyoto Convention, promoting smooth international trade and reducing cargo clearance times.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Costa Rica's customs in enhancing the implementation of trade facilitation agreements. By providing resources and training, it aims to strengthen customs capabilities and optimize cross-border trade processes, leading to improved international trade compliance and economic growth.
Alashankou Customs has significantly improved port clearance efficiency, reduced corporate operating costs, and promoted rapid growth in import and export trade by implementing customs clearance facilitation measures such as 'self-declaration and self-payment' and 'aggregate tax payment'. Data shows that the port's cargo volume and total value both achieved significant growth in January and February this year, demonstrating the remarkable effectiveness of customs clearance facilitation reforms.
This article explores the importance of enhancing the transparency and predictability of customs regulation and its impact on trade facilitation. It proposes effective improvement measures such as information disclosure, regulatory standardization, feedback mechanisms, technology application, and training, aimed at promoting stability in global trade.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) promotes the safe and efficient circulation of goods and enhances international trade facilitation by establishing unified policies. Its core initiatives include the WCO SAFE Framework, the Revised Kyoto Convention, and data models, effectively coordinating collaboration between customs and other government agencies to create a favorable environment for legitimate trade.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) recommends that its member customs administrations transmit trade data based on the Harmonized System (HS) to the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD). This aims to promote the standardization and interoperability of global trade data. This initiative is significant for improving data quality, strengthening international cooperation, promoting trade facilitation, and fostering sustainable development. Ultimately, it contributes to building a new landscape for global trade data sharing.
Palau will host a WCO National Workshop in July 2025, aimed at strengthening tariff classification work and enhancing customs efficiency and international competitiveness. This event offers valuable experience and learning opportunities for customs officials and stakeholders, promoting the facilitation of global trade.
To improve international trade efficiency, Bangladesh has implemented an Advance Manifest system, requiring carriers to submit manifests 24 hours before vessel departure. This initiative aims to enhance customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, and strengthen security controls through pre-processing. Shippers are required to cooperate by submitting accurate shipping instructions. This system is expected to significantly contribute to trade facilitation and streamline the import/export process for Bangladesh.
To simplify the process of returning imported goods, businesses can download a standardized "Direct Return Approval Form for Imported Goods" template and opt for associated customs declaration and inspection services. This initiative aims to improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce operational costs for businesses, and promote trade facilitation.
The Philippines has launched a National Customs Time Study at the Manila International Container Port, aimed at enhancing customs clearance efficiency in maritime trade. Supported by the WCO and the UK's HMRC, the project will employ a data-driven approach to identify bottlenecks, with the final report expected by the end of 2025. This study will serve as a foundation for future trade facilitation and national coordination.
