WTO members recently convened to discuss how digitalization can be leveraged to facilitate trade. The meeting focused on three main areas: using data and technology to simplify trade, promoting the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) through digital advancements, and the digitalization of border procedures. Ten delegations, including China, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Japan, Pakistan, Peru, the Dominican Republic, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Togo shared their experiences.
Mr. Carlos Guevara from Ecuador chaired the committee and noted in his video remarks that "we could see elements like the use of data, electronic certificates, as well as smart customs and single windows." He emphasized the benefits of digitalization in reducing time and costs. The committee aims to document lessons learned and best practices identified during these discussions.
Future meetings will address formalities and documentation requirements for trade facilitation and "single windows." Members will decide on a format for compiling these discussions into a tangible result by year-end.
The WTO Secretariat provided an update on the ratification and implementation of the TFA. This agreement has been in force since 2017 and aims to expedite goods movement across borders. Developing countries can set their own implementation schedules with support for capacity building. As of April 16th, developing members have committed to implementing 73.1% of TFA obligations. Developed members are required to implement all provisions since its inception. Seven members have yet to ratify it; Venezuela indicated plans to do so soon.
The meeting reviewed over 40 notifications from members. Topics included Brazil's study on cargo release times for exports and concerns from the United States about Indonesia's customs procedures for intangible products. Updates were also provided by the TFA Facility and work related to trade facilitation by MSMEs.
Members were asked to submit written comments on a document outlining good practices for national trade facilitation committees before the next meeting scheduled for July 9-10.