On 13 June 2013 the World Customs Organisation (WCO) announced that the Embassy of the Republic of Albania had deposited Albania’s instrument of accession to the International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonisation of Customs Procedures (Revised Kyoto Convention) with the World Customs Organisation on 04 June 2013. Having entered into force on 3 February 2006, the Revised Kyoto Convention now has 86 Contracting Parties, and is regarded as a blueprint for effective and modern Customs procedures. Some of the Convention’s key elements include the application of simplified Customs procedures in a predictable and transparent environment, the maximum use of information technology, the utilisation of risk management, a strong partnership with the trade and other stakeholders, and a readily accessible system of appeals. The Republic of Albania has been a Member of the WCO since 31 August 1992.