From 10 to 11 July the WCO hosted its first Global Conference on Transit with the objective of boosting discussions among its Members on transit regimes’ efficiency and of promoting its Transit Guidelines, which were released in 2017.
Representatives from Customs administrations, development partners and international organisations attending the event welcomed this new WCO tool and affirmed their commitment to implementing the measures prescribed in it.
During the discussions, political will was identified as crucial for the improvement of transit conditions.
The use of existing information and communication technology (ICT) solutions was also raised at the Conference. Particular attention was given to the difficulties faced by landlocked developing countries. All the participants also confirmed the need for harmonisation and simplification of border control procedures, as well as the promotion of ICT for the management of transit systems.
It was announced that the revision of the Transit Guidelines would be on the Agenda for the next sessions of the WCO Permanent Technical Committee. The WCO Secretary General noted the possibility of developing a separate publication on transit encompassing national or regional best practices.
