WCO: EAC progresses towards self-certification of origin
The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme funded by the European Union, in partnership with the East African Community (EAC), held a workshop on self-certification in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, from 22 to 23 August 2024. The workshop saw the participation of origin experts from Member Customs Administrations and Ministries responsible for Trade. The workshop is building on needs expressed by EAC and its Members to the RoO Africa Programme.
Mr. Donald Tindamanyire, Principal Customs Officer (Tariffs & Valuation) at the EAC Secretariat, in his opening remarks mentioned the successful collaboration with the WCO and the EU on various topics under both HS and rules of origin. He stressed that self-certification of origin would facilitate trade while allowing for the control of government revenue. Self-certification is provided for in the revised EAC rules of origin legislation from 2015, but not yet implemented by Members. The workshop would provide an opportunity for Members to learn how best to start the implementation to make sure that economic operators benefit to the maximum extent possible from free trade agreements.
WTO: China initiates WTO dispute complaint regarding EU subsidy duties on electric vehicles
China has requested WTO dispute consultations with the European Union regarding the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation on imported battery electric vehicles from China and the subsequent imposition of provisional countervailing duties on the targeted vehicles. The request was circulated to WTO members on 14 August.
WTO: EU initiates dispute complaint regarding Chinese Taipei’s wind installation measures
The European Union has requested WTO dispute consultations with Chinese Taipei regarding measures in Chinese Taipei relating to investments in off-shore wind installations. The request was circulated to WTO members on 31 July.
WCO Unveils Data Model Version 4.1.0
The World Customs Organization (WCO) is thrilled to announce the release of version 4.1.0 of the WCO Data Model. This updated version brings significant enhancements that are set to streamline Customs processes and help foster international trade.
Key Highlights of Data Model Version 4.1.0
- Comprehensive Booking Reservation Information (BRI)
For the first time, the WCO Data Model now includes comprehensive booking reservation information (BRI). This addition aims to provide a singular data model and transmission protocol to ease the burden on Members and the cruise line industry. It will be used to support the WCO BRI pilot in the first step to digitize the industry. The BRI data model was created using the dataset developed by the Passenger Facilitation Control Working Group (PFCWG) to facilitate risk management for travelers using advance information.
- Integration of Universal Postal Union (UPU) Dataset and WCO/UPU Joint Message Standards – Message Implementation Guide
Another major inclusion in version 4.1.0 is the updated version of the UPU dataset and Joint Message Standards – Message Implementation Guide. This integration is designed to improve the processing and monitoring of postal shipments, ensuring faster and more reliable delivery services across borders. It reflects the WCO's commitment to enhancing postal and e-commerce logistics worldwide. The Guide was developed in collaboration with key international trade and postal organizations. It provides detailed instructions on how to implement the new data sets, ensuring seamless adoption and interoperability among Customs authorities and their trading partners.
- Driving Efficiency and Global Trade
The updates in DM version 4.1.0 underscore the WCO's ongoing efforts to modernize Customs procedures and support the evolving needs of global trade. By incorporating the BRI and UPU datasets, the enhanced model offers a more holistic approach to data management, fostering greater transparency, efficiency, and security in international trade operations.