On 10 March 2022, the World Customs Organization (WCO) Secretary General received the Instrument of Accession of the Republic of Guatemala to the International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures, also known as the Revised Kyoto Convention or RKC, from the Ambassador of Guatemala in Belgium.
The Secretary General had a meeting with the Superintendent of SAT and the Director General of Customs and acknowledged that Guatemala, as Vice-Chair of the WCO Americas and Caribbean region, is seen as a leader and showcase for the use of WCO instruments. The Secretary General also highlighted that the RKC is recognised as a major trade facilitation instrument, as it includes key elements for the application of simplified customs procedures in a predictable and transparent environment, the optimal use of information technology, the utilisation of risk management for efficient Customs control, a strong partnership with the trade and other stakeholders, and a readily accessible system of appeals.
At the RKC Management Meeting, the Secretary General welcomed Guatemala to the RKC family. While acknowledging the support of the Director General of Customs to the work of the WCO, the Secretary General indicated that the accession marked another sign of cooperation between the WCO and Guatemala.
The Director General of Guatemala Customs and Vice-Chair of the region expressed his appreciation to the WCO for the technical support offered to Guatemala during the accession process and re-affirmed their commitment to be an active member of the RKC Management Committee. He also indicated that his country was ready to start implementing the provisions of the Convention by improving customs processes.