On 08 May the WCO Secretary General received the Instrument of accession of Sao Tome and Principe to the International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonisation of Customs Procedures (Revised Kyoto Convention - RKC).
Having entered into force on 03 February 2006, the RKC is a WCO legal instrument acceded to by several countries as the way to further promote legitimate trade and effective controls. It is regarded by the entire international Customs Community as a blueprint for modern Customs in the 21st Century, which complements countries’ efforts towards the ratification and the implementation of the WTO TFA.
The Convention’s key elements include 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.