How countries can leverage trade facilitation to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic

UNCTAD 4/22/2020 HOW COUNTRIES CAN LEVERAGE TRADE FACILITATION TO DEFEAT THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC 1 | HOW COUNTRIES CAN LEVERAGE TRADE FACILITATION TO DEFEAT THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Written Pamela Ugaz Sijia Sun, Trade Facilitation Section, UNCTAD1 COVID-19 pandemic spotlighted border agencies' challenge safeguarding public health avoiding disruptions free movement goods. agencies undertaking unprecedented measures speed import, export transit goods. time, agencies cope restrictive measures trade preserving trade flows supply chains. paper presents trade facilitation solutions, supported country cases, defeat trade challenges imposed COVID-19 pandemic. solutions seek improve efficiency main areas: process optimization, cost reduction, transparency cooperation enhancement, full display technology ensure cross-border trade reducing face--face interaction. 1 paper represents personal views authors , necessarily views UNCTAD Secretariat member States. authors accept sole responsibility errors. citation refer authors, publisher. paper formally edited. 2 | Background COVID-19 pandemic advances exponentially, governments ensure relief goods essential products freely move borders coming months. countries live lockdown, trade channels remain operational. Customs border agencies continue handling flow goods. , traders witnessed proliferation export restrictions controls license requirements medical devices. result, border posts crowded, controls multiplied, truck queues longer. Trade proceeding slower pace, times agility efficiency highest priority ensure adequate response pandemic. background, trade facilitation emerges backbone support border agencies matching safeguard public health undisrupted movement goods. document points categories trade facilitation measures countries implement, including inter alia process optimization, cost reduction, transparency cooperation enhancement, full display technology. Country cases offer concrete examples. Figure 1: main categories COVID-19 related trade facilitation measures Process Optimization Cost Reduction Transparency Cooperation Enhancement Full Display Technology https://unctad.org/en/pages/PublicationWebflyer.aspxpublicationid=2713 3 | 1. Process optimization efficient response COVID-19 crisis requires speed streamline release clearance essential goods. measures prove relevant facilitating process: 1.1. Expediting import procedures measures aim accelerating import procedures ensure aid reaches frontlines fighting COVID-19 promptly, line criteria laid Article 7.8 WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Pre-arrival processing Traders lodge, submit, register check goods declaration supporting documents arrival goods line Article 7.1. 8.1() WTO TFA. , border agencies opportunity pre-assess, identify prioritize import procedures. Fast-track lanes Special counters green lanes working 24/7 clearance sites countries, treating goods business hours Customs offices. Article 7.8() 11.5 TFA requires WTO Members establish special infrastructure facility. Cameroon, relief consignments humanitarian assistance consignments eligible procedures: () Pre-arrival completion Customs formalities, inspection quayside/runway quick removal goods; (ii) Pre-arrival declaration procedure; (iii) collection subject lodging provisional declaration security. India' Customs Revenue Control Laboratory operates 24/7 address congestion, delay surge, making results clearance earliest. Republic Korea’ Customs operates 24/7 Customs clearance system sanitary products, medical devices/equipment raw materials imports. resolved clearance delays utilizing channels Customs attaché, Customs hotlines major trading partners, fostering Customs cooperation. https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tradfa_e/tradfa_e.htm http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_cameroon_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_india_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_korea_en.pdfla=en 4 | Release arrival Customs release goods prior submission goods declaration laid Article 7.8.2(), declarant subsequently accomplish formalities respect clearance goods. Prioritization Annex Revised Kyoto Convention-Chapter 5 (hereinafter referred RKC Annex -Chapter 5), establishing workloads, Customs border agencies give absolute priority clearance relief consignments. carry clearance relief consignments export, transit, temporary admission import matter urgency. Trusted traders Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), established Article 7.7 WTO TFA, provide facilities expedite release clearance relief consignments essential goods crisis. benefits multiply countries mutually recognize equivalence AEO schemes. WCO affirms benefits twofold. Initially, AEO' compliance record expediting procedures relating entry exit international assistance. , AEO mitigate risks importing country ensuring humanitarian assistance tailored requirements assisting group' expertise. Italy ordered direct release devices fight COVID-19, rapid release goods limiting spread COVID-19. Brazil early release goods, inspection Customs clearance, WCO' HS classification reference documents. Japan' Customs prioritizes clearance relief goods goods maintain lifeline. , importers/exporters Customs brokers lodge import/export declarations Customs offices convenient , based prior consultation Customs. Bosnia Herzegovina provide priority shipments related fight COVID-19 pandemic. Maldives enables faster release medical equipment. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/j5e_november_2011.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/-key-principles---safe-framework_v01_en.pdfdb=web https://www.adm.gov./portale/istruzioni---importazione--svincolo-diretto--celere http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_brazil_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/nomenclature/covid_19/hs-classification-reference_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_japan_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_bosnia--herzegovina_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_maldives_en.pdfla=en 5 | 1.2. Relaxing procedures Handling goods clock requires Customs border agencies drop requirements. Risk management post-audit controls complement prevent misuse facilities. Simplification goods declarations Customs provide simplified goods declaration provisional incomplete goods declaration traders add missing information documents period, RKC Annex -Chapter 5. modality single goods declaration cleared person. Minimizing requirements accordance Article 7.8.2() WTO TFA, documentation requirement minimized seep release expedited-shipments. purpose mind, Customs boder agenies .. Sanitary Phytosanitary (SPS) Standard agencies work hand--hand adapt requirements temporally. instance, Sanitary agencies validate SPS certificates issued exporting countries critical supplies. EU possibility commercial, port transport documents Entry Summary Declaration documents information (Article 127.7 Union Customs Code, hereinafter referred UCC). release goods, declarant request amendment Customs declaration years date acceptance (Article 173.3 UCC). Chile granting reasonable deadlines complete documentation missing moment release. Colombia China suspended sanitary registration donated medical items. Republic Korea' Customs Food Drug Administration exempted importation masks import requirements foreseen Pharmaceutical Affairs Law, attaching import requirement approval procedure. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/j5e_november_2011.pdfla=en https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/covid-19-taxud-response/guidance-customs-issues-related-covid-19-emergency_en#heading_1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/uri=CELEX:02013R0952-20200101&=EN https://www.eleconomistaamerica.cl/empresas-eAm-chile/noticias/10356506/02/20/Aduanas-implementa-acciones-de-facilitacion-del-comercio-para-enfrentar-efectos-por-Coronavirus.html https://www.semana./nacion/articulo/coronavirus-invima-se-pronuncio-ante-supuesta-escasez-de-tapabocas/655126 http://english.customs.gov.cn/Statics/1c58ff7d-ff52-4d8f-896e-af7a080e2e89.html http://www.customs..kr/kcs/na/ntt/selectNttInfo. 6 | Obtaining representation consignees pose significant additional administrative burden categories economic operators. , Customs ease onus presumption empowerment. COVID-19 pandemic hinders services, border-regulatory agencies extending suspending timeframes avoid disruption ongoing procedures. EU Customs waive requirement prove empowerment postal operators, express carriers Customs agents Customs clearance activities carrying behalf consignee. EU requests Customs invalidate declarations export, -export outward processing procedure declarant explicitly requests declaration concerned. Japan extending exporters importers' certificates offering written statement traders explain reasons extension. El Salvador suspended legal terms deadlines 30 days, related administrative procedures taxes liquidation, sanctions imposition, Customs determination, origin verifications revision appeal. Brazil suspends 12 months compulsory certification procedure surgical -surgical gloves natural rubber, synthetic rubber synthetic rubber mixtures. https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/covid-19-taxud-response/guidance-customs-issues-related-covid-19-emergency_en https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/covid-19-taxud-response/guidance-customs-issues-related-covid-19-emergency_en#heading_8 https://www.meti..jp/english/press/2020/0214_004.html http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_el-salvador_en.pdfla=en https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/covid19_e/covid19_e.htm 7 | Flexibilities inspections Standard 3-RKC Annex -Chapter 5, border agencies conduct inspections relief consignments exceptional basis considered indispensable, .. security, narcotics contraband control purposes. inspections sleeve extent ensure compliance laws regulations importing country. Inspections release relief consignment place Customs office. instance, carried importer' premises counts equipment. options Customs office Clearance office, place destination. Republic Korea’ Customs mitigated Customs investigations, foreign exchange inspections origin verification. Chile authorizes physical inspections merchandise presence employees auxiliaries Customs Agents electronic request. removal goods Customs warehouses carried employees Customs agency responsible dispatch, issue pure power attorney adopt control measures. validity Customs cards expire period special measures established Customs resolution extended. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/j5e_november_2011.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_korea_en.pdfla=en http://www.aduana.cl/se-establecen-medidas-de-facilitacion-del-comercio-exterior-para/aduana/2020-03-19/140021.html 8 | Acceptance copies reduce burden compliance traders, border agencies accept paper electronic copies required documentation accordance Article 10.2 WTO TFA. , reserve request posteriori original document case doubts. Russia' Authorities imports goods accompanied copy veterinary phytosanitary documents, prior notification competent authority exporting country. cargo receiver send guarantee letter confirm submission original documents subsequently. Costa Rica authorizes National Animal Health Service State Phytosanitary Service review documents based copies, print-outs photocopies original documents order unduly delay trade flows international epidemiological emergency COVID-19. Australia South Africa, importer unable supply original paper phytosanitary certificate (PC) exporting country' National Plant Protection Organization result COVID-19 pandemic, inspection officers accept electronic copy PC lodged brokers standard lodgement process. Spain, flexibilization measures avoid -essential movements people: () original copy requested submitting guarantee; (ii) EUR-1 certificates issued posteriori; (iii) electronic procedure replaced .. carnet stamp; (iv) Seal transit procedure replaced detailed description goods identification; () Origin certificates preferential purposes form copy, issued paper electronically, accepted impossible provide original certificates. Importers obtain exporters original certificates situation normal; (vi) Temporarily suspension Customs duties VAT importation equipment relevant medical devices imported context COVID-19 outbreak. Cameroon relaxed requirements commercial documents specific procedures, accept documentation transmitted electronically (copies) place originals, subject regularization, . Japan' Customs lessens requirements seal, original copies, submission certificates origin. https://members.wto.org/crnattachments/2020/SPS/RUS/20_2339_00_x.pdf https://members.wto.org/crnattachments/2020/SPS/CRI/20_2456_00_s.pdf https://members.wto.org/crnattachments/2020/SPS/AUS/20_2469_00_e.pdf https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/covid19_e/covid19_e.htm http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_spain_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/-/legal-instruments/conventions--agreements/ata/pf_ata_conv_text.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_cameroon_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_japan_en.pdfla=en 9 | Risk management avoid mishandling flexible measures, Customs bolster risk management post-clearance audit systems line paragraphas 4 5 Article 7 WTO TFA. , criteria random checks ensure -risk consignments enjoy flexibilities, Customs focused high-risk cargos. Guidelines issued UNCTAD Automated System Customs Data (ASYCUDA) Customs administrators adapting system COVID-19 situation, National Risk Management Unit suggested create risk criteria expedite shipments COVID-19 emergency medical supplies. , WCO encourages Customs work close collaboration public health safety agencies, ensure smooth movement relief goods personnel applying risk management. posteriori controls post audits accelerate release -risk consignments ensuring application legislation. 1.3. Temporary admission Inventory goods written undertaking -export (Annex .9 Istanbul Convention) replace Customs document security temporary admission medical, surgical laboratory equipment. Countries accept .. CPD (Carnet de Passages en Douane) carnets place Customs documents security temporary admission. respect lockdown rules, traders close premises stop working, making -exportation goods temporary admission impossible established time-limit. Customs opt extending validation timeframes. Maldives Risk Management maximum expedite process & release consignments, items examined. EU relief consignment declared act, .. single act crossing border (Article 141.1. UCC Delegated Act, hereinafter referred UCC DA). possibility lodge oral declaration (Article 136.1 UCC DA) postpone 120 days release goods (Articles 166.2 UCC 147.2 UCC DA). https://asycuda.org/en/ https://unctad.org/en/Pages/DTL/TTL/ASYCUDA-Programme.aspx https://unctad.org/en/Pages/DTL/TTL/ASYCUDA-Programme.aspx http://www.wcoomd.org/en/media/newsroom/2020/march/wco-communique---coronavirus-outbreak.aspx http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/-/legal-instruments/conventions--agreements/istanbul/istanbul_legal_text_eng.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/-/legal-instruments/conventions--agreements/istanbul/istanbul_legal_text_eng.pdfla=en https://www.carnetdepassage.org/ http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_maldives_en.pdfla=en https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/covid-19-taxud-response/guidance-customs-issues-related-covid-19-emergency_en#heading_1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/uri=CELEX:02015R2446-20190725&=EN#tocId222 10 | 1.4. Transit measures Measures spread COVID-19 impact transit procedures, .. health screening test drivers. Standard 3-RKC Annex -Chapter 5, authorities transit country facilitate carriage relief consignments possessions disaster relief personnel. , transit relief consignments completed examination, reasons security exceptional circumstances, subject simple documentation required. Transit coordinators, appointed Article 11 WTO TFA, play critical role streamline process. Cameroon calls concerted actions secure continuity service ensure provision supplies, nationally neighbours Cameroon serves transit country. South African Revenue Service issued notices information alternative routes closing seaports 35 land ports. urgent trade- related movements arranged local authorities. EU' Customs accept scanned supporting documents electronic transit declaration, .. transport document, invoice . original documents remain accordance Article 51.1 UCC. Customs Convention International Transport Goods Cover TIR Carnets (TIR Convention) key trade facilitation tool COVID-19 pandemic. global transit solution enables goods shipped country origin, transit countries, country destination multilateral, mutually recognised system. TIR system COVID-19 pandemic, authorities companies : () protect drivers Customs officers physical checks unloading/loading cargo borders; (ii) accelerate border crossing process dedicated green lanes fast transport essential goods everyday supplies; (iii) access paperless solutions eTIR offers tracking shipments times, reducing risk fraud. Czech Republic’ Customs recognize validity expired .. carnet -exportation goods territory EU. - importation EU goods .. carnet, Customs relieve goods import duties taxes cases -importation deadline expiry validity .. Carnet. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/j5e_november_2011.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_cameroon_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_south-africa_en.pdfla=en https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/covid-19-taxud-response/guidance-customs-issues-related-covid-19-emergency_en https://www.unece.org/tir/.html https://www.unece.org/tir/.html https://www.iru.org/resources/newsroom/-secretary-general-reminds--member-states-fundamental-role-tir--covid-19 http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/czech-republic--ata-carnet-facilities.pdfla=en 11 | 2. Cost reduction COVID-19 negatively impacted global economy, trade costs represents burdern traders. order streamline trade, trade facilitation offers measures alleviate traders’ financial situation. 2.1 Flexibilities payments, interests guarantees aftermath outbreak, merchants experience delays receiving intermediate goods, turn delays deliveries final payments. order worsen lack liquidity, boder agencies show flexibilities tariff payment, interest guarantees. Standard 3-RKC Annex -Chapter 5 Customs officers defer payment taxes duties interest charges, moratorium complies relevant Standards Chapter 4 General Annex Duties Taxes. Customs refunding fees duties. reduce trade costs, border agencies apply flexible requirements guarantees. Dubai Customs refunding 20% Customs fees imposed imported products sold locally Dubai markets. , fees imposed submitting Customs documents companies reduced 90%. EU' Customs refrain requiring guarantee charging credit interest established based documented assessment create economic social difficulties (Article 112.3 UCC). Dubai Customs refunding existing eliminate bank guarantees required undertake Customs clearance activity. removed requirement providing banking instrument submitting Customs-related grievances. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/j5e_november_2011.pdfla=en https://www.gulftoday.ae/news/2020/03/13/sheikh-hamdan-launches-dhs1-5-billion-economic-stimulus-package----months https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/covid-19-taxud-response/guidance-customs-issues-related-covid-19-emergency_en#heading_1 https://www.gulftoday.ae/news/2020/03/13/sheikh-hamdan-launches-dhs1-5-billion-economic-stimulus-package----months 12 | 2.2 Tariff reductions Standard 5-RKC Annex -Chapter 5 waiver relief consignments export duties taxes. Standard 6-RKC Annex -Chapter 5, relief consignments received gifts approved organizations control organizations, distribution free charge control, admitted free import duties taxes. Republic Korea' Customs adopted series tax relief measures companies importing raw materials domestic production include extension payment duties, instalment payment duties, duty drawback day application. Peru Paraguay temporarily reduced tariff duties medicines, medical health-related products. , Paraguay established reference prices permanent monitoring system supply items market. Japanese Customs duties consumption taxes exempted importation relief goods. Maldives exempts duty masks, gloves & protective equipment' related COVID-19. Cameroon suspends collection interest late payment Customs duties taxes. Canada waiving tariffs sales taxes goods imported behalf public health agencies, hospitals testing sites, response organizations (.., police, fire local civil defence groups, including medical response teams), notice. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/j5e_november_2011.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/j5e_november_2011.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_korea_en.pdfla=en https://www.gob.pe/institucion/mef/noticias/108908-gobierno-reduce-temporalmente-la-tasa-arancelaria--65-subpartidas-de-medicamentos-insumos--implementos-medicos https://www.ip.gov.py/ip/gobierno-anuncia-plan-de-medidas-excepcionales-para-enfrentar-al-coronavirus/ http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_japan_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_maldives_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_cameroon_en.pdfla=en https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn20-08-eng.html 13 | 3. Transparency cooperation enhancement Increasing transparency helps expand deepen cooperation vice versa. mutually reinforcing effects. play essential role responding pandemic facilitating trade borders. 3.1 Promoting transparency effective means addressing crisis timely accurate information. International instruments impose obligations transparency, WTO TFA 11 specific measures Articles 1-5. , WCO instruments emphasized importance ensuring open flow information times crisis. , UNCTAD created dedicated page website, compiling online repositories proving --date trade-related information, including relevant notifications WTO members. includes WCO dedicated page, publishing regularly updated list countries adopted temporary export restriction measures medical supplies response COVID-19, making list HS classification reference COVID- 19 medical supplies. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/-/legal-instruments/resolutions/resolution_e.pdfla=en https://unctad.org/en/Pages/Coronavirus/measures-affecting-cross-border-movement--goods--persons.aspx https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/covid19_e/covid19_e.htm http://www.wcoomd.org/en/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/list--countries-coronavirus.aspx http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/nomenclature/covid_19/hs-classification-reference_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/nomenclature/covid_19/hs-classification-reference_en.pdfla=en 14 | , availability information Internet , instance, trade portals, plays crucial role democratizing dissemination knowledge current situation governments’ reponses COVID-19 crisis. Trade information portals increase predictablity stakeholders territory concerned country. addition, tool easily accessibility information cost-effective manner. Philippines Customs published educational material expedited procedures relief cargo infographics. Qatar held TV social media meetings reassure public progress import export operations. Maldives Customs media team working daily update relevant stakeholders brought, service hours import duty. Rwanda Customs shared contacts operational managers public ease communication. Brazil daily monitoring clearance goods fight epidemic, WCO' HS classification reference documents. online transactions Customs issues due suspension -person operations. South African Revenue Service issued notices information alternative routes trade, declared closure ports commercial border. Mongolia’ Customs established Interim Operative Working Group appointed duty officers day--day basis provide State Emergency Commission real-time data. Kenya published information COVID-19 trade-related emergency measures InfoTradeKenya Portal, set UNCTAD technical assistance. covers step--step guides export import procedures pharmaceutical products medical devices. COVID-19 webpage updated regular basis boder regulatory agencies. http://customs.gov.ph/consignees-role--international-donations/ http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_qatar_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_maldives_en.pdfla=en https://rwandatrade.rw/menu/382 http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_brazil_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_south-africa_en.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_mongolia_en.pdfla=en https://infotradekenya..ke/ 15 | 3.2 Strengthening cooperation Mitigating health risks economic consequences COVID-19 require coordinated preparedness response. Article 12 WTO TFA aims explicitly enhancing cooperation Customs authorities. , WCO instruments stress importance strengthening partnership international organizations, -governmental organizations private sector play essential role management humanitarian emergencies, providing information regulations procedures applicable relief consignments. UNCTAD calls responsible agencies coordinate cooperate countries ensure vital goods reach consumers hospitals coastal landlocked countries alike. , International Road Transport Union (IRU) launched global call concerted action governments global organizations ensure flow goods moving stabilizing mobility networks. Country cases show national, regional, international coordination essential address consequences pandemic. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/-/legal-instruments/resolutions/resolution_e.pdfla=en https://unctad.org/en/pages/newsdetails.aspxOriginalVersionID=2311&Sitemap_x0020_Taxonomy=UNCTAD%20Home;#1721; https://www.iru.org/resources/newsroom/alarming-gap-global-response-covid-19 https://www.iru.org/resources/newsroom/alarming-gap-global-response-covid-19 16 | National Level, cases involve cooperation government agencies public-private sectors. Republic Korea’ Customs collaborates Ministry Food Drug Safety exempting importing protective face masks relief donation import requirements. Chile, public-private group analyzed coordinated technical measures outbreak pandemic. Rwanda called collaboration private public institutions implement national measures, ensure society protected. regional level, countries cooperate regions sharing information practices. Asia, ASEAN Lancang-Mekong Cooperation acknowledged . Africa, Joint Statement COVID-19 preparedness response East African Community (EAC) Region signed Ministers responsible Health EAC Affairs, EAC Secretariat issued Administrative Guidelines Falicitate Movement Goods Services COVID-19 Pandemic. EAC Secretariat set Regional Coordination Committee Risk Communication, Policy, Logistics, Data Statistics -committees oversee regional COVID-19 response. , EU Commission coordinating common European response pandemic. Caribbean, CARICOM recommends members stimulate local food production meet future demands case trade disruption. international level, Joint Ministerial Statement countries (Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Myanmar, Zealand Singapore) affirmed commitment ensure supply chain connectivity COVID-19 situation. , G20 Trade Investment Ministerial Statement called ensuring smooth continued operation logistics networks serve backbone global supply chains. Explore ways logistics networks air, sea land freight remain open, ways facilitate essential movement health personnel businesspeople borders, undermining efforts prevent spread virus. , Ministerial Statement urged continue working international organizations establish coordinated approaches collect share good practices facilitate flows essential goods services. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_korea_en.pdfla=en https://www.eleconomistaamerica.cl/empresas-eAm-chile/noticias/10356506/02/20/Aduanas-implementa-acciones-de-facilitacion-del-comercio-para-enfrentar-efectos-por-Coronavirus.html https://rwandatrade.rw/menu/382 https://en.vietnamplus.vn/aem-retreat-issues-joint-statement--economic-resilience--covid19/169957.vnp http://spanish.xinhuanet./2020-02/21/c_138806509.htm https://www.eac.int/statements/1705-joint-statement---ministers-responsible--health--east-african-community-affairs-issued--25th-march-2020--covid-19-preparedness--response--east-african-community-region https://www.eac.int/press-releases/1704-eac-secretariat--deploy-mobile-laboratories--testing-kits----partner-states---bid--mitigate-coronavirus https://www.eac.int/press-releases/1704-eac-secretariat--deploy-mobile-laboratories--testing-kits----partner-states---bid--mitigate-coronavirus https://ec.europa.eu/info/live-work-travel-eu/health/coronavirus-response_en https://caricom.org/member-states--boost-food-production--lessen-covid-19-impact/ https://www.international.gc.ca/gac-amc/news-nouvelles/2020-03-25-joint-ministerial-statement-declaration-ministerielle-commune.aspxlang=eng https://g20.org/en/media/Documents/G20_Statement_Trade%20and%20Investment%20Ministers%20Meeting_EN%20300320.pdf 17 | 4. Full display technology Making full Information Communications Technology (ICT) ensures continuity cross-border trade reduces direct contact people remote operation. WCO RKC stipulates Customs apply information technology support Customs operations, cost-effective efficient Customs trade. , RKC Annex -Chapter 5 puts emphasize providing rapid, efficient centralized processing relief consignments, achieving ICT play crucial role. Article 10.4 WTO TFA stipulates Members called establish maintain Single Window traders submit documents data requirements single-entry point time. UNCTAD ASYCUDA affords Customs, cross-border agencies traders electronically submit exchange data documentation, computerize procedures expedite clearance imports, exports, transits trade transactions, reducing great extent face--face interaction. , answer life-saving emergencies, Automated System Relief Emergency Consignments (ASYREC) developed, fully integrated ASYCUDA. ASYREC software recognition organizations involved UN relief operations, entities expedite imports humanitarian relief. addition, Customs authorities enabled ASYREC accurate overview incoming relief consignments. India set desk homepage Central Board Indirect Taxes Customs, trade reach Ministries Single Window. Bulgaria strongly recommended electronic services. Chile adopted series measures () authorization dispatch mandates email approved; (ii) Customs Agents assistants perform duties remotely; (iii) official paper- essential documents import export processing, request modification Customs document legalization export declarations, received email. http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/instruments--tools/conventions/kyoto-convention/revised-kyoto-convention/body_gen-annex--specific-annexes.pdfla=en http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/j5e_november_2011.pdfla=en https://unctad.org/en/Pages/DTL/TTL/ASYCUDA-Programme.aspx https://unctad.org/en/pages/newsdetails.aspxOriginalVersionID=1673 https://unctad.org/en/pages/newsdetails.aspxOriginalVersionID=1673 http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/facilitation/activities--programmes/natural-disaster/covid_19/-practices_india_en.pdfla=en https://customs.bg/wps/portal/agency-en/media-center/-focus/covid-19 http://www.aduana.cl/se-establecen-medidas-de-facilitacion-del-comercio-exterior-para/aduana/2020-03-19/140021.html 18 | noted inequalities digital readiness hamper ability large parts world advantage technologies cope pandemic. developed countries (LDCs) vulnerable human economic consequences pandemic, lag farthest digital readiness. attention coordinated multilateral response bridge existing emerging digital divides countries avail digitalization. Conclusion COVID-19 pandemic global crisis spreading human suffering infecting global economy. Defeating requires global solidarity concerted response. categories measures countries' practices mentioned article illustrate policies measures governments, joint efforts public private entities, cooperation regional international partners crucial. national level, Trade Facilitation Committees serve focal point coordinate initial response pandemic sow seed cooperation regional international levels. UNCTAD assists developing, developed countries, economies transition, regional organizations trade facilitation reforms measures. offers technical assistance including, inter alia, () General Trade Facilitation Assistance; (ii) Support National Trade Facilitation Committees; (iii) ASYCUDA Programme; (iv) TrainforTrade Port Management Programme; () Business Facilitation Programme-Online Trade Portals; (vi) Transit Corridor Solutions; (vii) -tariff Measures Programme. economies, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) St Kitts Nevis Curaçao, adopted 100% paperless trade processes ASYCUDA, allowing continuity business situations COVID- 19. , Democratic Republic Congo advantage ASYCUDA facilitate Customs clearance food supplies, vital medical supplies protective equipment, exempt taxes duties imports. , Jamaica Customs Agency recommended carrying- Customs' related payments -payment feature developed ASYCUDA. Madagascar Rwanda adopted similar measures , enforced stakeholders general public ASYCUDA online services Rwanda Electronic Single Window. https://unctad.org/en/PublicationsLibrary/dtlinf2020d1_en.pdf https://unctad.org/en/Pages/DTL/TTL/Trade-Facilitation.aspx https://sustainabledevelopment..org/topics/sids/list https://www.youtube./watchv=RD7KtPX0t8w&feature=youtu.. https://www.youtube./watchv=RD7KtPX0t8w&feature=youtu.. http://curacaochronicle./local/customs-enters-paperless-era/ https://asycuda.org/en/usercountries-democraticrepubliccongo/ https://jis.gov.jm/jamaica-customs-encourages---online-payment-services-walk--customers---facilitated/ https://asycuda.org/en/usercountries-madagascar/ https://asycuda.org/en/usercountries-rwanda/ https://sw.gov.rw/index.html 19 | LIST OF INSTRUMENTS 1. Convention International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention) 2. Convention Temporary Admission (Istanbul Convention), Annex .9 3. Customs Convention .. Carnet temporary admission goods (.. Convention) 4. Guidelines Chapter 5 Specific Annex International Convention Simplification Harmonization Customs Procedures, amended (Revised Kyoto Convention) 5. International Convention Simplification Harmonization Customs Procedures, amended (Revised Kyoto Convention) 6. International Maritime Organization Convention Facilitation International Maritime Traffic 7. Istanbul Convention Handbook 8. Model Agreement United Nations State/Government measures expedite import, export transit relief consignments possessions relief personnel event disasters emergencies 9. Customs Convention International Transport Goods Cover TIR Carnets (TIR Convention, 1975) 10. Relevance Key Principles SAFE Framework Standards, Facilitating Process Clearing Relief Consignments 11. WCO Recommendation Customs -operation Council Expedite Forwarding Relief Consignments event Disasters (1970) 12. 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