Customs is a mandatory element in the movement of goods across borders and the procedures applied to these goods significantly influence the role of national industry in international trade and their contribution to national economy. Effective and efficient clearance of goods increases the participation of national industry in the global marketplace and contributes significantly to the economic competitiveness of nations, encourages investment and development of industry and increases the participation of small and medium enterprises in international trade. Modern trading practices make it essential for administrations to provide simple, predictable and efficient Customs procedures for the clearance of goods and movement of people while simultaneously tackling increasingly complicated national and international requirements to ensure compliance with national laws, international agreements and meeting security challenges.

In the current international business environment simple, predictable and cost-effective formalities for cross border movement of goods has been gaining increased focus since this has become central to increasing economic growth through national participation in international trade. The volumes of goods that move across borders have increased exponentially due to changes in the international trading environment stemming from the global integration of modern production and delivery systems as well as from new forms of electronic commerce. Global efforts in the last decade to enhance transparency in international trade and reduction of tariff barriers have had significant results. Attention of governments and other agencies is now focused on non-tariff barriers and their impact on national economies and trade.

For further information, please visit WCO Web site: www.wcoomd.org.