G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
15 November 2021  
(21-8609) Page: 1/29 
Committee on Trade Facilitation    
 
COMPENDIUM  
SHARING  EXPERIENCES RELATED TO THE COVID -19 CRISIS  AS OF 1 JULY 2021  
Revision1 
1.1.  In accordance with the decision reached in the Trade Facilitation Committee, agreed to by 
Members through a silent procedure on 9 April 2021, and with the mandate received in document 
G/TFA/W/31/Rev.4, the Secretariat has compiled a compendium document of the contributions of 
COVID -19 responses that the Committee on Trade Facilitation (TFC, the Committee) Members and 
Observers have provided the TFC so far. The compendium includes the presentations made by 
Members and international organizations.  
1.2.  The compendium report is structured similarly to the TFA. For each provision, the report 
presents the  COVID -19 related trade facilitation measures taken by t he Members and reported by 
Members to the Committee, including the challenges and difficulties addressed, if mentioned in the 
contribution. The reported measures under each article are identified strictly in accordance with the 
information provided by Memb ers. In those cases where reported information was not identified as 
specifically related to any provision, the measures reported are included under a section "Other TF -
related COVID -19 measures", as stipulated in document G/TFA/W/31/Rev.4, paragraph 7.  
1.3.  The information was sourced from the presentations made and written statements submitted 
by Members and international organizations to the Committee. The presentations and written 
statements were considered at the following Committee meetings: 30 September 2 020, 
21-22 October 2020, 26 -27 January 2021, and 3 March 2021. The information was also sourced 
from TFA notification s circulated to Members in the document series G/TFA/N/ .2 All information 
sources are available in the Trade Facilitation Agreement Databa se Website.3 
1.4.  The information contained in the compendium document is presented under four headings: 
Member; Reported Measure; Source (of the information); and, date of the Committee meeting at 
which the measure was reported.  
1.5.  The reported measures, in most  cases, did not identify a specific challenge to which the 
measure was addressed, except in the case of the reported measures by land -locked developing 
country Members. Therefore, as indicated in paragraph 8 of document G/TFA/W/31/Rev.4, which 
references t he identification of specific problems and solutions adopted by different categories of 
Members, the information reported by land -locked developing country Members indicating the 
challenges they faced during the pandemic is contained in a separate table wh ich is located in 
Section  II of the compendium document.  
1.6.  Reflecting the references to International Organizations as found in document 
G/TFA/W/31/Rev.4, paragraphs 2, 7 and 9, a separate table has been created containing the 
information presented  by Intern ational Organizations. This table is located in Section III of the 
compendium document.  
 
1 This revision contains responses by Members following the communication from the European Union in 
document G/TFA/W/63/Rev.1 . 
2 At the request of Members at the Committee on Trade Facilitation meeting on 22 -23 June 2021 . 
3 https://tfadatabase.org/trade -facilitation -committee/experience -sharing/topic/13 .   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 2 - Section I. COVID -19 responses reported by Members to the Committee on Trade Facilitation  
Article 1: Publication and Availability of Information  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Chile Agriculture and Livestock Service of Chile (SAG) – Measures related to phytosanitary 
certificates in order to facilitate trade in the context of the problems related to 
COVID -19. Sets -up a webpage available to all national plant protection organizations 
(NPPOs) to verify and obtain directly from the SAG certification system an image of 
all original data from phytosanitary certificate. In the case of imports, SAG will 
accept the submission of a scanned image of the phytosanitary certificate, as an 
alternativ e for importers that do not have the original document.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
China  Notice on Effectively Conducting the Work Related to Further Facilitating Enterprises ' 
Application for Import and Export Licenses during the Prevention and Control of the 
COVID -19 Pandemic issued by the General Office of the Ministry of Commerce . 
http://www.mofcom.gov.cn/article/ae/ai/202002/20200202934222.shtml  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  30 April 2020  
China  Circular of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs on Optimizing Approval Services 
during the COVID -19 Pandemic Circular No.1 [2020] of Ministry of Agriculture and 
Rural Affairs.  
http://www.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengceku/2020 -02/13/content_5478044.htm  Notification under arti cles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  30 April 2020  
Dominican 
Republic  The DGA has attempted to address the impact of the emergency situation due to the 
COVID -19 pandemic by adopting the following measures:  
(1) Elimination of the surcharge for late declaration (Art. 52 of Law No. 3489), 
through an application submitted to the customs administration.  
(2) The period from Friday, 20 March 2020, until three working days after the lifting 
of the state of emergency wil l not be included when calculating the number of days 
goods were kept at the bonded warehouse for any purpose (fiscal, re export or 
cargo consolidation).  
(3) From 24 March, customs administrations will not count the days under lockdown 
in calculating the p eriod of time after which goods are declared abandoned.  
(4) From 24 March, for procedures involving digital signatures, support will be 
provided via the email address firmasdigitales@aduanas.gob.do and by phone.  
(5) From 24 March, the following applications can only be submitted by email 
(info.corresporidenciayarchivo@aduanas.gob.do): applications for the payment of 
tax under Law No. 253.42, applications for exemption from the payment of tax 
under Provision No. 7204, and WTO quota authorizations (technical rectifications).  
(6) From 23 March, the administrations will be open for payments until 3 p.m. Users 
are therefore invited to make payments electronically.  
(7) The registration of importers/exporters, inclusion of administrators and access 
autho rizations may be carried out digitally from 23 March, provided that the 
requirements established by the DGA have already been met. Details of these 
requirements can be found at www.aduanas.gob.do. Applications must be sent to 
unidadregistro@aduanas.gob.do . 
(8) From 26 March, the administrations will stop clearing containers at 5  p.m., due 
to the curfew imposed by the Government.  Notificatio n under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  
 5 June 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 3 - Article 1: Publication and Availability of Information  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
(9) From 2 April and for the duration of the emergency, the collection of all  import 
taxes via the Integrated Customs Management System will be temporarily 
suspended on masks, clothing, medical protective equipment and devices, machines 
and appliances required to combat the pandemic. This suspension of taxes 
specifically includes c ustoms duty, where applicable, and tax on the transfer of 
goods and services (ITBIS).  
(10) With regard to the clearance of vehicle imports during this emergency, the 
DGA, in order to minimize the risk of infection from the coronavirus and reduce the 
presen ce of persons and taxpayers at its facilities in the country's ports, has adopted 
a number of measures to facilitate the import of vehicles that will take effect from 
20 March.  
Dominican 
Republic  Customs intelligence . 
The following measures have been implemented since 20 March 2020 to mitigate 
customs risks and maintain trade f acilitation:  
(1) The risk analysis has focused on items that are of key importance in the current 
circumstances, such as medicines and medical industry products, with a view to 
mitigating the risks of, inter alia, counterfeits and expired products. The same 
applies to the analysis of imports of high-risk products, such as contraband 
cigarettes.  
(2) An analysis of businesses with low-risk profiles is under way in order to speed up 
the clearance of these businesses' goods, so that efforts can be focused on cases of 
a more  sensitive nature.  
(3) Through the World Customs Organization's Customs Enforcement Network 
Communication Platform, the task force is keeping abreast of the various modus 
operandi used internationally in order to gather information on confiscations made 
by other customs administrations.  
(4) According to information from administrators at each border crossing, the transit 
of goods is occurring twice a week at land border crossing points. The goods in 
custody are clothing, alcohol and juices.  
(5) Vehicle rela ted applications will be handled remotely. It is hoped that the 
following applications can be received by email:  
• applications for payment of tax and clearance of vehicles;  
• applications for the correction of vehicle related manifests or characteristics;  
• applications for the clearance of buses.  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  
 5 June 2020  
Dominican 
Republic  Customs administrators have been instructed to authorize, as of 2 April, the 
clearance, using tariff preferences, of imports on goods from the European 
Community, without the submission of  the EUR.1 Movement Certificate. This is 
subject to prior evaluation of the risk profile of the taxpayer and the submission of a 
document in which the taxpayer commits to providing said certificate when it is 
subsequently issued.  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  
 5 June 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 4 - Article 1: Publication and Availability of Information  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
European Union  VAT and duty exemption applied to certain goods procured by certain entities 
designed by EU Member States . 
Commission Decision on relief from import duties and VAT exemption on importation 
granted for goods needed to combat the effects of the COVID -19 outbreak during 
2020 is extended until 30 April 2021. Member States can grant VAT  relief to sales of 
coronavirus vaccines and testing kits to hospitals and medical practitioners. The 
European Commission has also proposed a Council directive amendment 
2006/112/EC. If adopted, the new rules would allow a temporary VAT exemption to 
be giv en to vaccines and testing kits being sold to hospitals and medical 
practitioners, as well as closely related goods and services. member States would 
also be able to apply reduced rates to testing kits if they so choose. Once agreed by 
all Member States, t he new rules would allow a temporary VAT exemption to be 
given to vaccines and testing kits being sold to hospitals and medical practitioners, 
as well as closely related goods and services. Member States would also be able to 
apply reduced rates to testing  kits if they so choose.  
COVID -19: Commission puts forward taxation and customs measures to support 
access to more affordable equipment, vaccines and testing kits, Taxation and 
Customs Union (europa.eu) . 
https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/news/covid -19-commission -puts-forward -
taxation -and-customs -measures -support -access-more-affordable -equipment -
vaccines -and-testing -kits_fr  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  
 5 November 2020  
European Union  Specific Trade facilitation measures have been adopted by the EU to facilitate trade in 
the specific circumstances under COVID -19. Guidance on Customs issues related to 
the COVID -19 emergency, 30 March 2020.  
https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/covid -19-taxud -response/guidance -
customs -issues -related -covid-19-emergency_fr  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  5 November 2020  
European Union  Border management flexibilities in conformity with/consi stent with the European 
Union Customs Code legal framework.  
Guidelines for border management measures to protect health and ensure the 
availability of goods and essential services, 16 March 2020  
https://ec.europa.eu/home -affairs/sites/homeaffairs/files/what -we-
do/policies/european -agenda -migration/20200316_covid -19-guidelines -for-borde r-
management.pdf  
Communication from the Commission on the implementation of the Green Lanes 
under the Guidelines for border management measures to protect health and ensure 
the availability of goods and essential services, 23  March  2020.  
https://eur -lex.europa.eu/legal -
content/FR/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52020XC0324(01)&from=FR  
Air cargo related customs procedures  
Communication from the Commission - European Comm ission Guidelines: 
Facilitating Air Cargo Operations during COVID -19 outbreak, 26 March 2020  
https://ec.europa.eu/transport/sites/transport/files/legislation/ c20202010_en.pdf  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  
 5 November 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 5 - Article 1: Publication and Availability of Information  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
European Union  Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/466 of 31 March on temporary 
measures to contain risks to human, animal and plant health and animal welfare 
during certain serious disruptions of Member States' control systems due to 
Coronavirus disease (COVID -19) 
https://members.wto.org/crnattachments/2020/SPS/EEC/20_2299_00_e.pdf  
https://members.wto.org/crnattachments/2020/SPS/EEC/20_2299_00_f.pdf  
https://members.wto .org/crnattachments/2020/SPS/EEC/20_2299_00_s.pdf  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  5 November 2020  
Japan  Exemption of customs duty and (domestic) consumption tax for imported goods 
which are proved to be provided free of charge  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Mexico  Use institutional records to find out the tax situation of importers.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Separate Customs 
Territory of 
Taiwan, Penghu, 
Kinmen and 
Matsu  Simplification of customs procedures for safety products:  
Setting up contact points to speed up customs clearance  
https://eweb.customs.gov.tw/singlehtml/ 3448?cntId= e2294b53841a4f3f93f09eadd
59cf761  
Guidelines for clearance procedures  
https://eweb.customs.gov.tw/multiplehtml/3448  
Press release related to trade facilitation measures taken by customs  
https://eweb.customs.gov.tw/singlehtml/ 3448?cntId= 9c42256550d14b1e8c5a3a86
a19380bc  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation   31 March 2021  
Separate Customs 
Territory of 
Taiwan, Penghu, 
Kinmen and 
Matsu  Relaxation of the storage period of bonded goo ds in duty -free shops  
Article 20 of the Regulations Governing the Establishment and Management of Duty -
free Shops  
https://law.moj.gov.tw/ENG/LawClass/LawAll.aspx?pcode=G0350036  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  31 March 2021  
Separate Customs 
Territory of 
Taiwan, Penghu, 
Kinmen and 
Matsu  Temporary reduction of customs duty on "masks" and "ingredients of pharmaceutical 
alcohol":  
ingredients of pharmaceutical alcohol, 27 Feb to 26 Aug 2021  
https://eweb.customs.gov.tw/singlehtml/1868?cntId=6f152622532e4759932b6012
a01f9b7e  
ingredients of pharmaceutical alcohol, 27 Nov 2020 to 26 Feb 2021  
https://eweb.customs.gov.tw/singlehtml/1868?cntId=613ff0178e164fb3b604f9cd52
cc2a65  
ingredients of pharmaceutical alcohol, 27 Aug to 26 Nov 2020  
https://eweb.customs.gov.tw/singlehtml/1868?cntId=cus16_186132_1868  
ingredients of pharmaceutical alcohol, 27 May to 26 Aug 2020  
https://eweb.customs.gov.tw/singlehtml/1868?cntId=cus16_185102_1868  
ingredients of pharmaceutical alcohol and masks, 27 Feb to 26 May 2020  
https://eweb.cu stoms.gov.tw/singlehtml/1868?cntId=cus16_184129_1868  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitat ion  31 March 2021   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 6 - Article 1: Publication and Availability of Information  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
United States  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), pursuant to the Defense 
Production Act (DPA) and other authorities, issued a temporary final rule banning 
the export of certain personal protective equipment (PPE), including certain 
respirators, certain surgical masks, and certain medical gloves, without explicit 
approval from FEMA. The rule included various exemptions, including exports of 
subject goods that are destined for either Canada or Mexico.  
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR -2020-08-10/pdf/2020 -17467.pdf  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6 .2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  26 October 2020  
United States  The Department of State's Office of Defense Trade Controls Policy announced that 
they are temporarily suspending, modifying, and excepting certain International 
Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements in an effort to mitigate the impact 
of the COVI D-19 pandemic. The temporary changes are set out in the following 
notification:  
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/05/01/2020 -08839/international -
traffic -inarms -regulations -notification -of-temporary -suspension -modification -or Notification under articles  1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  26 October 2020  
United States  Treasury and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a temporary final rule to 
temporarily postpone the deadline for importers of record with a signifi cant financial 
hardship to deposit certain estimated duties, taxes, and fees that they would 
ordinarily be obligated to pay as of the date of entry, or withdrawal from warehouse, 
for consumption, for merchandise entered in March or April 2020, for a period  of 90 
days from the date that the deposit would otherwise have been due but for this 
emergency action.  
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/04/22/2020 -
08618/temporarypostponement -of-the-time-to-deposit -certain -estimated -duties -
taxes -and-fees-during -the  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  26 October 2020  
United States  The US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service (APHIS) has extended the interim guidanc e for the electronic submission of 
veterinary health certificates for shipment clearance due to COVID -19 pandemic. 
The guidance is now effective for shipments arriving through 30 September 2020.  
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDAAPHIS/bulletins/2943fa9  Notification under articles 1.4 , 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  26 October 2020  
United States  USDA extended the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification due to the 
COVID -19 crisis:  
https://www.ams.usda.gov/content/usda -temporarily -extends -expiration -dates -
some -goodagricultural -practices -domestic -origin  
 
This only applied to US and Canada producers. This is ext ension was for only 60 
days for those certifications scheduled to expire on or before 31 May.  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Faci litation  26 October 2020  
United States  USDA's main Coronavirus response page:  
https://www.usda.gov/coronavirus#usda -actions   Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  26 October 2020  
United States  APHIS continues to regulate some animal -derived products:  
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/downloads/import/covid -19-info.pdf   Notification und er articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  26 October 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 7 - Article 1: Publication and Availability of Information  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
United States  The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regularly updates its COVID -19 information 
for Filing Personal Protective Equipment and Medical Devices During COVID -19 here:  
https://www.fda.gov/industry/importing -covid-19-supplies/information -filing-
personalprotective -equipment -and-medical -devices -during -covid-19  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  26 October 2020  
 
Article 1.1: Publication  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
New Zealand  When New Zealand went into lockdown as a result of  COVID -19, The New Zealand 
Customs Service published on its website COVID -19 related updates for traders.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVI D-19 30 September 2020  
 
Article 1.1 (b): applied rates of duties and taxes of any kind imposed on or in connection with importation or exportation  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
New Zealand  In April 2020, New Zealand concluded a plurilateral declaration (initially between 
New Zealand and Singapore) which: removes tariffs on a range of medical supplies 
needed for the COVID -19 response; commits not to impose export restrictions; 
includes commitments on NTBs; and contains commitments  to expedite and 
facilitate the flow and transit of these products consistent with TFA obligations.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Article 5: Other Measures to Enhance Impartiality, Non -discrimination and Transparency  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Kenya  Protocol providing best practices on the importation and sale of used textiles and used 
shoes and how the supply chain operators conduct their operations while ensuring the 
health and safety of the sellers, importers, wholesalers and buyers from the risk o f 
spread of COVID -19 virus.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
 
Article 6: Disciplines on Fees and Charges Imposed on or in Connection with Importation and Exportation and Penalties  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Japan  Refund of, reduction of, or exemption from certain customs fees, due to the COVID -19 
pandemic  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
New Zealand  12-month deferral of the scheduled fees and charges for Customs' cleara nce of 
imported and exported goods across New Zealand's border.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
 
 
 
Article 7: Release and Clearance of Goods  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Brazil  Simplification and streamlining of customs procedures for certain products, due to the 
COVID -19 pandemic.  
Note: also applicable under TFA Article 10  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19  30 September 2020    
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 8 - Article 7: Release and Clearance of Goods  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Brazil  Prioritized transit, release and clearance of goods according to HS Classifi cation 
Reference from WCO.  
Note: also applicable under TFA Article 10  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19  30 September 2020   
Brazil  Temporary criteria for the import of products for in vitro diagnostics  
Note: also applicable under TFA Article 10  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response  to COVID -19  30 September 2020  
Chile National Customs Service (SNA) - Resolution N° 1313, provides instructions for the 
importation (including donations) of essential inputs for the management, diagnosis 
and treatment of COVID -19. Measures include the preferential entry of such 
merchandises ( a special code for priority in their assessment), as well as the use of 
simplified import declaration for expedited processing and clearance of such goods.  OTTAWA GROUP: Tra de 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19  30 September 2020  
Japan  Japan Customs has been implementing TFA provisions, which facilitate customs 
procedures:  
Art.7.1: Pre -arrival Processing;  Art. 7.3: Separation of Release from Final 
Determination of Customs Duties etc.  Japan Customs' Response to 
COVID -19  20-22 October 2020  
Japan  Prioritization of customs clearance for relief goods relating to  countermeasures to the 
COVID -19 and other goods that require an urgent clearance to maintain the lifeline.  
Note: Also applicable under TFA Article 10  Japan Customs' Response to 
COVID -19  20-22 October 2020  
Japan  Prioritization of customs clearance for relief goods relating to countermeasures to the 
COVID -19 and ot her goods that require an urgent clearance to maintain the lifeline.  
Note: Also applicable under TFA Article 10  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19  30 September 2020  
Japan  Simplified import and export declaration forms for relief goods relating to 
countermeasures to the COVID -19 etc.  
Note: Also applicable under TFA Article 10  Japan Customs' Response to 
COVID -19  20-22 October 2020  
Japan  Simplifie d import and export declaration forms for relief goods relating to 
countermeasures to the COVID -19 etc.  
Note: Also applicable under TFA Article 10  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19  30 September 2020  
Mexico  There will be special protocols to expedite the clearance of the following goods:  
• Supplies donated to the Ministry of Health;  
• Goods (import) in accordance with the rule for simplified procedure for imports 
made by the Ministry of Health and decentralized agencies of the Health Sector;  
• Perishable goods, medicines, and health products or other essential goods.  
Note: also applicable  under TFA Article 10  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19  30 September 2020  
New Zealand  Notices of direction provided for New Zealand border clearance staff to clear 
consignments (based on an emailed copy of a health certificate where authenticity 
could be verified in other ways with the relevant competent authority – provided an 
original is subsequently sent)  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Norway  Norwegian Customs introduced a temporary regulation giving the opportunity to 
economic operators to postpone the completion of customs declarations. The 
regulation was repealed when the situation normalised.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19  30 September 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 9 - Article 7: Release and Clearance of Goods  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Singapore  Singapore and New Zealand launched the Declaration on Trade in Essential G oods for 
Combatting the COVID -19 Pandemic ("Declaration") on 15 Apr 2020. Under the 
Declaration, both economies agree to eliminate tariffs, refrain from imposing export 
prohibitions or restrictions as well as expedite the movement through sea and airports 
for a list of essential goods including medical, hygiene, pharmaceutical and agriculture 
products. The purpose of the Declaration is to facilitate trade in these essential 
products and ensure that they continue to flow freely to their intended destinations  
during the COVID -19 global pandemic.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19  30 September 2020  
Switzerland  Simplified procedures (imports)  
Customs declarants have the possibility of completing Swiss customs formalities 
before lorries arrive, so that consignments of goods are stopped at the border only in 
certain necessary cases.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19  30 September 2020  
 
Article 7.2: Electronic Payment  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
New Zealand  All payments to New Zealand Customs should be made online or on deferred 
accounts.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 Septemb er 2020  
New Zealand  Implementation of e -Invoicing in New Zealand. This initiative represents a joint 
commitment by the Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand to combine efforts 
through the Trans -Tasman e -Invoicing arrangement heads of agreement.  
 
Note: this measure also relates to article 10 of the TFA.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
  
Article 8: Border Agency Cooperation  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Mexico  Communication channels with CBP (USA), as well as with other authorities that act at 
the border.  OTTAWA GROUP : Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
New Zealand  Agreement with the EU to allow the long running meat and seafood trial to go fully 
paperless.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
 
Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Membe r Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Australia  Australia's Department of Agriculture, Water  and the Environment (DAWE) extended 
temporary alternative arrangements to the use of original paper import certificate 
requirements for a range of imported plant -based, animal, biological and animal -
based goods.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Brazil  Temporary elimination of import tariffs on certain personal protective equipment due 
to the COVID -19 pandemic.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 10 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Membe r Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Brazil  Implementation of a Customs Operational Center for Crisis Management to supervise, 
monitor and guide the customs procedures . OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Brazil  Temporary elimination of import licensing requirements on certain products ( e.g., 
vacuum plastic tubes for blood collection and syringes) . OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Brazil  Temporary simplification of requirements on the manufacture, import and purch ase of 
certain products identified as essential for use in healthcare services on the fight 
against the COVID -19 OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Brazil  Extraordinary and temporary criteria and procedures for the certification of good 
manufacturing practices for the purposes of registration and postregistration changes 
to active pharmaceutical ingredients, medicines an d health products due to the 
COVID -19 international public health emergency  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Brazil  Extraordinary and temporary criteria and procedures for handling requests for 
regularization of personal protective equipment, medical equipment of the ventilator 
type and other medical devices identified as strategic  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Brazil  Extraordinary and temporary criteria and procedures for handling requests for 
registration of medicines, b iological products and products for in vitro diagnosis and 
postregistration change of medicines and biological products due to the COVID -19 
international public health emergency  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Brazil  Temporary exemption from the requirement of inexistence of national production for 
the import of used pulmonary ventilators, vital signs monitors, infusi on pumps, 
oximeters and capnographs and stretchers for the transport of patients  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Canada  The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has recently implemented an e -Longroom  
initiative which created a new process for providing electronic copies of release 
documents to the CBSA, thereby further reducing the paper burden. CITES and 
Kimberley permits must still be presented in hard copy. The e -Longroom process will 
remain in pla ce following the pandemic.  
https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/e -services -e/longroom -sal-comp -eng.html  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  12 April 2021  
 
e-Longroom  
Part of an Emerging Digital Customs Strategy for CBSA  e-Longroom: an  Emerging 
Digital customs Strategy  20 - 22 October 2020  
Chile National Customs Service (SNA) - Resolution Nº 1179 establishes new modalities for 
the handling of a number of procedures related to verification overseen by the 
Customs Service, with the view to facilitate trade, meet social distancing instructions 
and sa nitary recommendations. These include the implementation of electronic 
procedures (responses to requests from customs brokers, exchanges or modifications 
of B&L by email and remote working of customs brokers), as well as the suspension of 
some deadlines de emed unmeetable due to COVID -19 outbreak.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 11 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Membe r Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Chile National Customs Service (SNA) –Resolution No. 1377/2020, amends Exempt 
Resolution No. 1179. Authorizes individuals and state administration bodies to make 
their submissions to the National Customs Directorate, by email.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Dominican 
Republic  Trade facilitation measures taken due to the COVID -19 pandemic  
Single Window for Foreign Trade (VUCE)  
The Single Window for Foreign Trade continues to operate as usual. However, due to 
COVID -19 measures, assistance is being offered remotely as of 26 March.  
G/TFA/N/DOM/3/Rev.1 - 7 - Institutions are accepting copies of plant and animal 
health certificates, which are being review ed electronically. A number of resources 
have been created to coordinate the granting of authorizations in the Single Window 
for Foreign Trade, which enables importers and exporters to schedule inspections (if 
necessary) and monitor the authorization proce ss at the port. Users in need of 
assistance can call (+1) 809 -547-7070, ext. 2662 and 2663 , 
email gestiónyprocesosvuce@aduanas.gob.do or visit the website: 
www.vucerd.gob.do  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  
 05 June 2020  
Japan  Measures reducing Person -to-Person Interactions:  
Single Window in Japan enables traders to submit declarations and data electronically.  
Since 2013, Japan customs has allowed traders to submit electronic copies of 
supporting documents in PDF format through NACCS and the coverage of documents 
has been expanded as of October 2020.  Japan Customs' Response to 
COVID -19 
 20-22 October 2020  
Japan  Accept scanned or hard copies of export certificates.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Korea, Republic of  Accept a copy instead of the original document of the certificate of origin to impose 
preferential tariffs.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Korea, Republic of  Omit doc ument screening and visit inspection in the process of issuing certificates of 
origin in case companies recognized by the Korea Customs Service as excellent 
companies in export safety management.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Korea, Republic of  Include surgical and protective masks, hand sanitizers and thermometers in the list of 
tariff exemptions for self -use of s mall quantities of goods.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Korea, Republic of  Minimize customs clearance procedures for protective masks imported for the 
purposes of relief, donation and free distribution to employees by companies.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade  
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Mexico  Staff (Except priority workers) is currently working in staggered periods from 25 
March 2020, with 2 officials per area in each shift, in order to provide services to 
customers  as necessary.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Mexico  Assistance is provided to adults over 60, pregnant, lactating or staff with a chronic 
illness to carry out their work activities from their home.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 12 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Membe r Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Mexico  Attention and processing of matters related to the clearance of goods, through digital 
means.  
Presentation of documents through electronic means.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Mexico  Transport services measures. Extended the validity of permits, licences and 
certificates for technical personnel.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Mexico  Suspension of legal terms, deadlines , the receipt of documents and reports, 
procedures, actions, proceedings, initiation, substantiation and resolution of 
administrative procedures, notifications, requests for reports or documents and means 
of challenge, as well as any administrative act tha t is requested from its attached 
public servants.  
All administrative procedures before the Ministry of Economy will be conducted by 
electronic means of communication, so the receipt of documentation is suspended 
physically.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Mexico  There will be special protocols to expedite the import of:  
-Products and by -products of plant origin that require the presentation of an original 
Phytosanitary Certificate;  
-Merchandise subject to compliance with Official Mexican Standards.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Mexico  Certificates of origin, certificates of eligibility for textile goods and clothing (TPL) and 
certificates of quota, which by their nature require to be printed, stamped and signed, 
the form of delivery will be through the website designed by the Ministry o f Economy.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Mexico  Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (C OFEPRIS) has 
published a list of 219 priority procedures related to the disease caused by the SARS -
CoV2 virus (COVID -19), including import health certificates, notices or sanitary 
authorizations for medicines or medical products, among others.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
New Zealand  The New Zealand Customs Service (Customs) and its Trade Single Window e nables a 
goods clearance process before goods arrive to New Zealand. This ensures that critical 
supplies i.e., PPE and test kits continue to be cleared before arrival in New Zealand.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Norway  Norwegian Customs introduced a temporary regulation giving the opportunity to 
economic operators to postpone the completion of customs declarations . The 
regulation was repealed when the situation normalised.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Norway  The Norwegian Ministry of Agriculture and Food introduced a temporary regulation 
giving an exception from the plant health regulation section 19 on import certificates.  OTTAWA G ROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Norway  The Norwegian Ministry of Finance has allowed the import of donated aid with 
personal protective equipment without collecting customs duty and VAT.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Norway  Norwegian Customs introduced an electronic version of the preferential Movem ent 
Certificate EUR.1. The launch was expedited as a corona measure, but the solution is 
a permanent trade facilitating measure.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures ta ken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 13 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Membe r Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Norway  Norwegian Customs introduced a temporary regulation giving the carriers who have a 
permit for goods transport outside opening hours on roads where there is a customs 
office, may as a result of the outb reak of COVID -19 viruses also pass during opening 
hours on the terms otherwise provided by the permit granted.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Singapore  Since 31 January 2020, importers of surgical masks, particulate respirato rs (such as 
N95 masks), thermometers for measuring human body temperature, and any 
protective gear for medical professionals (such as isolation gown and gloves), do not 
require an importer's licence from Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Instead, importers 
only need to notify HSA of their intention to import, as well as provide information on 
the brand and quantity of the devices to be imported into Singapore. They must also 
maintain proper sales and distribution records, which might be required for 
submissi on when necessary (such as for a recall of products).  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Singapore  Singapore has alr eady put in place a National Single Window (NSW) since 1989 that 
has put us in good stead during the COVID -19 situation. Singapore's NSW provides a 
single platform for Singapore's trade and logistics community to fulfil all import, 
export and transhipment related regulatory requirements. All customs declarations 
can be submitted electronically via the NSW prior to the arrival of the goods, and 
traders are notified when the permit application is approved or rejected. This 
minimises face -to-face interactions without delaying processing times and allows fees 
and taxes to be processed electronically.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 14 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Membe r Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Switzerland  Accelerated border crossing for goods: green lanes  
Use of priority lanes ("green lanes") in road traffic for certain categories of goods. The 
"green lanes" set up at certain border crossings for important goods are maintained.  
DATE:29.4.2020  
Regulation 10 -27 
The "green lanes" established at certain border crossings for important goods (such as 
medical products, foodstuffs, mail, fuels, and packaging material and machine parts 
for the medical and food industries) rema in in place.  
https://www.ezv.admin.ch/dam/ ezv/fr/dokumente/verfahren -
betrieb/Aufgabenvollzug/Dokumentation/R -10%20Zollverfahren/r -10-
27_vorrangige_fahrspuren.pdf.download.pdf/R -10-27_Vorrangige_Fahrspuren_f.pdf  
HS codes  
Medical devices  
Respiration apparatus  
Systems for assessing the condition and functions of the body  
In vitro diagnostics ("COVID -19 tests")  
Surgical masks/OP masks  
Surgical gloves/examination gloves  
Medical oxygen  
Infusion solutions  
Personal protective equipment  
Surgical masks  
Protective masks  
Single -use gloves  
Gowns  
Protective clothing  
Protective goggles  
Hand sanitizer  
Surface disinfectant  
Hygiene items for intensive care medicine (such as medical absorbent mats,  
diapers, faecal management systems, and oral and throat hygiene items)  
Medicines  
Chapter 30  
Foodstuffs  
Chapters 1 to 23, excluding goods containing alcohol and manufactured tobacco  
Fuel of all kinds  
Chapter 27  
Machinery and spare parts  
Only if they are to be used in the medical and food industries  
Packaging material  
Only if it is to be used in the medical and  food industries  
Letter and parcel post  
In accordance with the Universal Postal Convention  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  8 October 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 15 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Membe r Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Switzerland  Simplified procedures (imports)  
Customs declarants have the possibility of completing Swiss customs formalities before 
lorries arrive, so that consignments of goods are stopped at the border only in certain 
necessary cases.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 
Regulation 10 -00 Customs declarants may carry out Swiss clearance formalities prior 
to the arrival of the mode of transport. To do so,  customs declarants send a pre -
declaration. This is equivalent to a final customs declaration, the only difference being 
that it is sent prior to the arrival of the consignment, so that it is easier for goods to 
cross the border at off -peak times.  
https://www.ezv.admin.ch/dam/ezv/fr/dokumente/verfahren -
betrieb/Aufgabenvollzug/Dokumentation/R -10%20Zollverfahren/R -10-
00%20Einfuhrzollveranlagungsverfahren.pdf.download.pdf/R -10-00.pdf  Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  8 October 2020  
 
Switzerland  Simplified procedures (exports)  
The "Libero Export" procedure provides a fully electronic export process, so that over 
95% of consignments can be handled by the transporter without additional Swiss 
customs formalities.  
Regulation R -10-26 
The "Libero Export" procedure, which simplifies export procedures at b order customs 
offices, has recently been introduced across Switzerland (as far as is logistically 
possible). The customs declarant selects the export customs declaration and may 
export consignments selected as "free" without carrying out additional Swiss c ustoms 
formalities. The submission of customs documents to Swiss windows, as well as the 
resulting waiting times, will thus gradually be eliminated.  
https://www.ezv.admin.ch/dam/ezv/fr/dokumente/verfahren -
betrieb/Aufgabenvollzug/Dokumentation/R -10%20Zollverfahren/r -10-
26_libero_export.pdf.download.pdf/R -10-26_Lib ero_Export_f.pdf  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  8 October 2020  
Switzerland  Digitalisation: Electronic communication  
From July 2020, th e possibility, via the E -Begleitdokument and E -com applications, to 
send documents, applications and requests directly to the customs system using an 
instant messaging function. Customs clearance, as well as the processing of 
applications and requests, wil l thus be considerably accelerated and simplified.  
https://www.ezv.admin.ch/ezv/fr/home/declaration -en-douane/declaration -pour-
entreprises/e -begleitdokument.html  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Notification under articles  1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  8 October 2020  
  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 16 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Canada  The timeframe for all payments due to the CBSA (customs duties and GST on regular 
imports, re -assessments, penalties, etc.) was extended to 30 June 2020. This included 
charges on the statement of account of March due on 1 April 2020. The measure 
served to alleviate burden on businesses experiencing financial hardship and provide 
additio nal flexibility to traders. Information on deferral of payments is set out in 
Customs Notice 20 -11 - Extension of Timeframes for Payment of Customs Duties and 
GST (COVID -19). Measure expired 30 June 2020.  
https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn20 -11-eng.html  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitatio n measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  12 April 2021  
Canada  The CBSA is provided a 45 - day grace period for late accounting penalties. Clients did 
not have to submit an application to have late accounting penalties waived. This 
applied to transactions released from 11 March to 26 May 2020, inclusively.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Notificat ion under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  12 April 2021  
Canada  Canada has extended by 30 days the period of 90 days for submitting corrections 
following a CBSA trade compliance verification where errors were found. The measure, 
which expired on November 11, 2020, served to alleviate administrative burden on 
businesses and provide additional flexibility to traders. Information on the extension 
of the 90 -day correction period is set out in the following not ice. Measure expired 11 
November 2020.  
https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn20 -32-eng.html  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  12 April 2021  
Canada  Canada is temporarily waiving customs duties and sales taxes on a ll goods used in 
response to COVID -19 imported by or on behalf of public health agencies, hospitals, 
testing sites, and first response organizations, as well as public or private care 
residences such as seniors' residences, retirement homes, nursing homes and 
shelters. Canada is also waiving customs duties on certain goods for all importers, 
including personal protective equipment, in order to support efforts to combat the 
spread of COVID -19. 
https://docs.wto.org/dol2fe/Pages/FE_Search/FE_S_S006.aspx?DataSource=Cat&que
ry=@Symbol=G/MA/W/145*&Language=English&Context=ScriptedSearches&languag
eUIChanged=true#  
https://docs.wto.org/dol2fe/Pages/FE_Search/FE_S_S006.aspx?DataSource=Cat&que
ry=@Symbol=G/MA/W/153*&Language=English&Context=ScriptedSearches&languag
eUIChanged=true#  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
Notification under articles 1.4, 
10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2 of 
the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation  12 April 2021  
Dominican 
Republic  Temporary suspension of import duties and internal ta xes in the acquisition of 
denatured ethyl alcohol for antibacterial gel and similar products.  Medidas temporales adoptadas 
por la República Dominicana en 
respuesta al COVID -19 20-22 October 2020  
Dominican 
Republic  Temporary suspension of import duties on face masks, outfits, personal protective 
equipment and medical instruments and devices.  Medidas temporales adoptadas 
por la República Dominicana en 
respuesta al COVID -19 20-22 October 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 17 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Dominican 
Republic  Simplified procedures through the single window to release high priority goods 
(medicines, medical instruments and devices and food)  Medidas temporales adoptadas 
por la República Dominicana en  
respuesta al COVID -19 20-22 October 2020  
Dominican 
Republic  Suspension of VAT tax on the importation of companies and goods classified by the 
PROINDUSTRIA law.  Medidas temporales adoptadas 
por la República Dominicana en 
respuesta al COVID -19 20-22 October 2020  
European Union  Temporary measures to contain risks to human, animal, plant welfare during COVID -
19 OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 30 September 2020  
European Union 
(with respect to 
partner countries 
– Sri Lanka)  EU-Sri Lanka Trade -Related Assistance Project:  
• Technical support to implement specific Trade Facilitation Agreement measures;  
• Strengthening the institutional capacity of NTFC  European Union statement  20-22 October 2020  
European Union 
(with respect to 
partner countries 
- the Caribbean)  11th EDF Regional Private Sector Development Programme for the Caribbean:  
• Support the TFA obligations in terms of availability of information on rules and 
procedures, automation and e -service  European Union statement  
 20-22 October 2020  
European Union  Challenges:  
• Impossibility for declarants to come to the customs office;  
• Closure of customs offices.  
Measures:  
• Issuance of confirmation letters digitally signed to prove the authenticity of 
unstamped certificates;  
• Exchange of scanned certificates via e -mail between the  economic operator and 
the customs office;  
• Exchange by post of certificates;  
• Legal analysis: Draft of an information note for economic operators;  
• Coordination with EU Member States authorities and partner countries: Digital 
platform CIRCA -BC interest group  «PEM»;  
• Communication to economic operators: Websites of European Commission  Paper -based proofs of 
Preferential Origin under Covid -
19 crisis  20-22 October 2020  
 
European Union 
(with respect to 
partner countries 
- Mozambique)  EPA - Supporting Trade and Development in Mozambique – "PROMOVE Comércio":  
Implementation of TFA reforms  European Union statement  
 20-22 October 2020  
European Union 
(with respect to 
partner countries 
- Uzbekistan)  Facilitating the Process of Uzbekistan's Accession to the WTO:  
• Establishment/strengthening of NTFC  
• Review/develop the Trade Facilitation -related legislative/regulatory framework  Europ ean Union statement  
 20-22 October 2020  
  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 18 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
European Union 
(with respect to 
partner countries 
– Egypt)  I. The Trade and Domestic Market Enhancement Programme (TDMEP):  
 1. Foreign trade and trade agreements  
• Support to improving rules and procedures related to foreign trade and 
reinforcing Ministry of Trade and Industry's capacity to build positions, 
negotiate trade agreements, and analyse implications of international 
agreements;  
• Technical Assistance project on Trade Policy and Trade Facilitation.  
 2. Industrial policy and quality infrastructure.  
II. Twinning Program with the Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA):  
• simplify customs compliance requirements for businesses,  
• reduce customs bureaucracy for better trade f acilitation;  
• make the movement of goods across borders more efficient and 
predictable;  
• strengthen administrative and operational capacities of the Egyptian 
Customs Authority (ECA).  European Union statement  
 20-22 October 2020  
 
Japan  Deferment of Submission of C/O Due to Disaster  Japan Customs' Response to 
COVID -19 20-22 October 2020  
Japan  Extension of time limits for customs procedures, including those for payment of 
customs duties in ce rtain cases, due to the COVID -19 pandemic  Japan Customs' Response to 
COVID -19 
OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken in 
response to COVID -19 20-22 October 2020  
Japan  Extension of time limits for customs procedures, including those for payment of 
customs duties in certain cases, due to the COVID -19 pandemic  30 September 2020  
 
India Implementation of 24x7 custom clearance facility at all custom formations to avoid 
any supply chain disruption. Instruction No.02/2020 -Customs dated 20.02.2020 and 
Instruction No.  08/2020 dated 01.06.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -instructions/cs -
instructions -2020/cs -ins-02-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India All customs formations to show greater sensitivity in dealing with cargo from affected 
areas, condone the delay in filing import declarations and waive late filing fees in 
genuine cases. CBIC Chairman letter No.03/CH(IC)/2020 dated 24.02.2020.  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Creation of a dedicated single window COVID -19 helpdesk for  EXIM trade to facilitate 
quick resolution of issue(s) faced by importer/exporter.  
https://icegate.gov.in/coronavirus -tradehelp  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Designation of a nodal officer in each Customs Zone who can be approached for any 
issue pertaining to clearance of cargo.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/CBIC -Customs -Nodal -Officer -Covid -
19.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 19 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
India With effect from 5 March 2020, extension of automated clearance of Bills of Entry to 
all Customs formations Where the Customs Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) system 
is operational to minimize human interface and maintain social distancing. So far, this 
function was performed by a Cust oms Officer, Circular No. 15/2020 -Customs Dated 
28.02.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -circulars/cs -circulars -
2020/Circular -No-15-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26 ) 8 October 2020  
India Shipping Lines have been asked not to levy detention charges on containers held up 
for reasons attributable to lockdown measures. DG Shipping Order no. 07/2020 dated 
29.03.2020.  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India All major ports have been asked not to levy penalties, demurrage, char ges, fee, rental 
on any port user (traders, Shipping Lines, concessionaries, licensees etc.) for any 
delay in berthing, loading/unloading operations or evacuation/arrival of cargo for 
reasons attributable to lockdown measures Ministry of Shipping letter No . PD-
14300/4/2020 -PD VII dated 31.03.2020.  
Likewise, customs airports have been asked for waiving of demurrage charges at 50% 
by airport operator/cargo terminal operator for the lockdown period. Order date 
01.04.2020 of Ministry of Civil Aviation issued un der F. No. AV -29012/41/2020 -ER. Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 Octo ber 2020  
India The time limit for filing of appeal, furnishing of return, or any other compliance under 
the Customs Act or Customs Tariff Act, which was expiring from 20th March 2020 to 
29th June 2020, has been extended up to 30th September 2020 The Taxation and 
Other laws (relaxation of Certain Provisions) Ordinance, 2020 (No. 2 OF 2020 ) read 
with relevant notification.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -
cbec/customs/NN_English_Ordinance_date%20extension.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India To address the dif ficulties faced by importers/exporters and their authorized Customs 
Brokers, during the lockdown period, the requirement of submitting different types of 
customs bond was dispensed with. Importers/exporters and their authorized Customs 
Brokers can submit u ndertaking on plain paper in lieu of such bonds Circular no. 
17/2020 -Customs dated 03.04.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources// htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -circulars/cs -circulars -
2020/Circular -No-17-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trad e facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India With the subsequent extension of lockdown period, and resultant difficulties in 
obtaining stamp papers for the submission of customs bonds, the facility of submitting 
undertaking on plain paper in lieu of such bond provided vide Circular 17/2020 was 
further extended to 30.06.2020 Circular 21/2020 dated 21.04.2020, Circular 23/2020 
dated 11.05.2020 and Circular  26/2020 -Customs.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -circulars/cs -circulars -
2020/Circular -No-26-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 20 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
India Import clearance of Edible oils and Food Grains against Provisional No -Objection 
Certificate P -NOC based on visual examination without waiting for the analysis report. 
On receipt of analysis report, final No Objection Certificate shall be issued FSSAI's 
direction dated 03.04.2020 and 16.04.2020 issued under F. No. 1 -
1771/FSSAI/Imports/2018.  
https://www.fssai.gov.in/upload/advisories/2020/04/5e98366960e97Direction_PNOC_
Imported_Food_16_04_2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Prioritized clearance of critical goods us ed for fighting COVID -19, such as medical 
equipment, drugs and pharmaceuticals, testing kits, PPEs and exemption from basic 
customs duty and health cess has been granted to such goods - ventilators, masks, 
personal protection equipment, testing kits and inp uts used in manufacturing these 
items Notification No. 20/2020 -Cus dated 09.04.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -act/notifications/notfns -
2020/cs -tarr2020/cs20 -2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Allowing provisional clearance of goods imported under free trade agreements without 
production of original certificate of origin. Customs Circular No. 18/2020 -Cus dated 
11.04.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -circulars/cs -circulars -
2020/Circular -No-18-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India DGFT Trade Notice No. 59/2019 -20 dated  28 March 2020  
https://content.dgft.gov.in/Website/Trade%20Notice%2059.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Issuance of electr onic certificates of origin for exports under India’s trade agreements 
with ASEAN, Japan, South Asia, Sri Lanka  and Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) on 
a digital platform. Trade Notice 1/2020 -21 dated 7 April 2020.  
https://content.dgft.gov.in/Website/Trade%20No tice%201%20eCoO%20go -
live%207Apr2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/2 6) 8 October 2020  
India Exemption from Integrated Goods and services Tax (IGST)/Compensation Cess on 
goods imported against Adv. Authorization/EPCG extended up to 30.03.2021 
(Notification No. 18/2020 - Customs dated 30.03.2020).  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -act/notifications/notfns -
2020/cs -tarr2020/cs18 -2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Electronic communication of PDF based final electronic O ut of Charge eOoC (electronic 
Out of Charge) copy of BoE and eGatepass to the importers/Customs Brokers reduce 
interface between the Customs Authorities and Importers/Exports/Customs Brokers, 
with effect from 15.04.2020 Circular No. 19/2020 -Customs dated 1 3.04.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -circulars/cs -circulars -
2020/Circular -No-19-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 21 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
India Personal hearing with respect to any proceeding under Customs Act, 1962 by video 
conferencing mechanism and., online submission of all documents for personal 
hearings through official emails. F. No. 390/Misc/3/2019 -JC dated 27.04.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -instructions/cs -
instructions -2020/cs -ins-04-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India To ease the burden of compliance on the Authorized Economic Ope rators (AEO)'s, the 
AEO certificates that were expiring between 01.03.2020 and 31.05.2020 have been 
extended to 30.06.2020 vide Circular 27/2020 -Customs dated 02.06.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -circulars/cs -circulars -
2020/Circular -No-27-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India All the AEO entities have been sent individual intimations over email. Extension 
communications have been made from 24 Ap ril 2020 onwards.  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Validity of Letters of Intent (LOIs) issued to various promoters for setting up of Inland 
Customs Depots (ICDs)/Container Freight Stations (CFSs) due to expire during 
lockdown period extended up to  31 August 2020.  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India 8 June 2020 (Notification No 50/2020) (N.T.) and Not ification 51/2020 dated 
05.06.2020, Circular No. 28/2020 dated 05.06.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/ cs-circulars/cs -circulars -
2020/Circular -No-28-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measu res (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Instruction No .09/2020 dated 05.06.2020 . 
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/c ustoms/cs -instructions/cs -
instructions -2020/cs -ins-09-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitati on 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Contactless customs - To reduce non -essential physical interactions in the Customs 
work environment, allowing Registration of Authorized Dealer Code, Bank Accounts 
through Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE), Automated debit of bond after 
Assessmen t; Simplified Registration of Importers /Exporters in ICEGATE and 
Extension of Turant Suvidha Kendra in All Customs Formations. Circular No.32/2020 -
Customs dated 06.07.2020.  
https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs -cbec/customs/cs -circulars/cs -circulars -
2020/Circular -No-32-2020.pdf  Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Online issuance of health certificates by the Export Inspection Council EIC, over e -
mail. Intimation to the Committee on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020  
India Online issuance of Certificates for exports by Marine Products Export Development 
Authority (MPEDA) for the USA market w.e.f. 1 April 2020 DS 2301 certificates.  Intimation to the Committee  on 
Trade Facilitation about India's 
COVID -19 trade facilitation 
measures (G/TFA/W/26)  8 October 2020   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 22 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Date  
Netherlands 
support to 
developing 
countries  An immediate support package in the short run (USD 100  million ) The Netherlands statement  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Saint Lucia on 
behalf of OECS  New Protection of front -line workers, including customs workers – through improved 
systems and automation.  OECS report  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Saint Lucia on 
behalf of OECS  Streamlining of procedural formalities between and across border agencies [customs, 
bureau of standards, port authorities, SPS authorities etc.]  OECS report  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Saint Lucia on 
behalf of OECS  Strengthened Risk management to prioritize clearance of imports and exports of low -
risk critical supplies  OECS report  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Saint Lucia on 
behalf of OECS  Border agency cooperation to facilitate the import of critical suppliers (including 
medical supplies)  OECS report  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Saint Lucia on 
behalf of OECS  ICT to support trade (e.g., single windows and trade information portals  OECS report  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Saint Lucia on 
behalf of OECS  Extending border agency working hours  OECS report  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Saint Lucia on 
behalf of OECS  Increased dialogue between industry and governments  OECS report  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Saint Lucia on 
behalf of OECS  Increasing the availability of trade -related information on websites and through 
inquiry points  OECS report  20 – 22 October 
2020 
  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 23 - Section II. COVID -19 responses reported by land -locked developing country Members to t he Committee on Trade Facilitation  
Other TF -related COVID -19 measures by land -locked developing country Members  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Challenge  Date  
Afghanistan   Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Amendment of legislation: new legislation or 
amendment of the existing legislati on is a 
lengthy process.  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  
 Institutional changes: establishment of new 
unit or bringing the current units in one 
umbrella, for example single window, 
enquiry points, risk management team and 
recruitment of new staff  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Lack of border coordination and 
harmonization  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Lack of equipment and infrastructures (ICT 
and Laboratory equipment for the 
implementation of TFA)  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Large number of documentary requirements  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Lack of cooperation between customs and 
other border agencies and traders  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Imple mentation in Afghanistan  Lack of standardization and harmonization  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Continued manual processing of 
documentation – hard copies still have to be 
submitted  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Time at ports is very high (consignment 
take more time to release)  20 – 22 Octob er 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Lack of automated processes and scarce use 
of IT 20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Lack of human and financial resources  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Deficiencies in infrastructure  20 – 22 October 
2020 
  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 24 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures by land -locked developing country Members  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Challenge  Date  
Afghanistan   Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Lack of capacity or shortage of skilled and 
professional staff (for new or existing staff) 
to promote better understanding of the 
agreement (exacerbated due to COVID -19) 20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Mongolia   Implementation of the TFA by 
Mongolia  Decrease in global freight transport  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Mongolia  
  Implementation of the TFA by 
Mongolia  Restrictive measures at border  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Mongolia  
  Implementation of the TFA by 
Mongolia  Losses in export  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Nepal  Necessary safety measures 
adopted in customs procedures & 
always remained open  
 
Trade facilitation through virtual 
meeting at regional (SAARC) and 
bilateral levels  
 
Border processing based on soft 
copies of documents and quick 
response team (24 H)  Trade & Transit Facilitation: Nepal's 
experience  International trade reduced from 5 billion 
daily to 1 billion at initial stage  
 
Lockdown & other restriction in economic 
activity impacted reduction  
 
Supply chain disruption both at the 
domestic and international level  
 
Delay in receiving cargo at customs resulted 
in congestion at border  
 
Problem in a smooth flow of goods, 
informat ion and documentation  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Nepal   Trade & Transit Facilitation: Nepal's 
experience  Insufficient trade related infrastructures 
including ICT (a t border & inside)  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Nepal  
  Trade & Transit Facilitation: Nepal's 
experience  
 Coordination in development/maintenance 
of transit transport infrastructure and 
harmonisation of policy, regulatory and 
administrative instruments  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Nepal  
  Trade & Transit Facilitation: Nepal's 
experience  Slow process of customs cooperation at the 
regional or sub -regional level  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Nepal  
  Trade & Transit Facilitation: Nepal's 
experience  
 High trade cost linked to trade (export) 
reducing effect causing negative impact on 
economic growth and unable t o fully 
harness its potential  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Nepal  
  Trade & Transit Facilitation: Nepal's 
experience  Low product diversification, low value 
addition, &  limited trade partners  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Nepal  
  Trade & Transit Facilitation: Nepal's 
experience  Condition further sever  as landlocked least 
developed country  20 – 22 October 
2020  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 25 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures by land -locked developing country Members  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Challenge  Date  
Nepal   Statement by Nepal  Huge digital divide among and within the 
countries  
 
A huge portion of business running without 
automation and not connected to ITC  
 
Only few domestic online business operators 
concentrated in major cities have been able 
to run their business smoothly due to 
insufficient health protective measures and 
disruption in domestic transportation and 
supply system  
 
Major businesses are compelled to remain 
fully disconnected from the regular supply 
system and are mostly closed  30 September 2020  
Paraguay  Almost 100% of trade procedures, 
including payments, could be 
completed online, with face -to-face 
procedures remaining optional.  Ventanilla única del exportador - 
medidas en época de pan demia   20 – 22 October 
2020 
Paraguay  Teleworking was made possible due 
to digitalized procedures.  Ventanilla única del exportador - 
medidas en época de pandemia   20 – 22 October 
2020 
Paraguay  Acceleration of implementation of 
electronic rules of origin certificates 
with ALADI and MERCOSUR 
countries. In other circumstances, 
the use of scanned documents was 
allowed.  Ventanilla única del exportador - 
medidas en época de pandemia   20 – 22 October 
2020 
Paraguay  Decrease in the time to process 
customs declarations using digital 
procedures.  Ventanilla única del exportador - 
medidas en época de pandemia   20 – 22 October 
2020 
Paraguay  Logistic centers that would allow 
cross-border trade, through orders 
made online with electronic 
payments.  Ventanilla única del exportador - 
medidas en época de pan demia   20 – 22 October 
2020 
Paraguay  Automatization of transit and 
cabotage procedures  Ventanilla única del exportador - 
medidas en época de pandemia   20 – 22 October 
2020 
  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 26 - Section III. COVID -19 presentations by international organizations to the Committee on Trade Facilitation  
International organization  Reported measure  Date  Source  
International Trade Centre  (1) Analysis and insights from businesses;  
(2) Advice for business competitiveness;  
(3) Adapt TRTA delivery modalities:  
• Invest more in national resources and capacity;  
• Boost investment in e -learning facilities;  
• Adapt implementation modalities;  
• Leverage bilateral and regional online consultations  
(4) Implement digitally enabled TF reforms:  30 September 2020  ITC - Coping with COVID -19 
through trade facilitation  
United Nations Conference on 
Trade and Development  (1) Ensure uninterrupted shipping.  
(2) Maintain ports open.  
(3). Protect international trade of critical goods and speed up 
customs clearance and trade facilitation.  
(4) Facilitate cross -border transport.  
(5). Ensure the right transit.  
(6) Safeguard transparency and up -to-date information.  
(7) Go paperless.  
(8) Address legal implications for commercial parties.  
(9) Protect shippers and transport ser vices providers alike.  
(10) Ensure coordination.  30 September 2020  UNCTAD - Easing global trade 
and transport during COVID -19 
United Nations Conference on 
Trade and Development 
(UNCTAD)regarding LLDCs and 
SIDS'  (1) Governments to refrain from any unjustified restraints on 
traffic.  
(2) LLDCs and transit partners as well as SIDS' and transshipment 
ports to make use of trade facilitation standards and digital 
technologies to limit physical checks and contact at borders to 
protect health of workers.  
(3) View the crisis as an opportunity to reorient international 
transport operations on a sustainable path.  
(4) LLDCs, SIDS and partners to strengthen global and regional 
cooperation on transport connectivit y and coordination.  30 September 2020  
 UNCTAD - Easing global trade 
and transport during COVID -19 
United Nations Conference on 
Trade and  Development  Actions by NTFCs  
• Emergency Task Forces:  Some NTFCs have been setting up 
ad-hoc crisis committees or have been integrated parts of the 
national emergency task forces.  
• Dissemination of information during crisis:  Some 
countries have used trade information portals to ease trade by 
simplifying and explaining procedures and processes as well as 
COVID -19 emergency measures.  
• Coordinating border actions : NTFCs have worked with local 
authorities to expedite customs clear ance and release of goods 
essential to combatting the spread of the pandemic, such as 
masks, gels and disinfectants, setting up clearance, organizing 
convoys etc.  30 September 2020  
 UNCTAD - Easing global trade 
and transport during COVID -19  
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 27 - International organization  Reported measure  Date  Source  
United Nations Conference on 
Trade and Development  Asycuda COVID -19 Measures:  
• Guidelines for Customs Administration;  
• Survey on tailoring Asycuda systems against COVID -19 
UN Development account project on Transport and Logistics in 
times of COVID -19 30 September 2020  
 UNCTAD - Easing global trade 
and transport during COVID -19 
World Bank  Activated 14 Billion in emergency financing to support COVID -19 
country responses including health, PPE, and Trade Facilitation  30 September 2020  World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Bank  The Trade Facilitation Support Program (TFSP) increased the use of 
virtual m odalities and local staffing.  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Bank  The team produced two guidance notes and a video to assist 
recipient countries with responses to the crisis:  
"Managing Risk and Facilitating Trade in the COVID -19 Pandemic ": 
provides initial guidance on measures to support business 
continuity and protecti on of front -line officers, as well as to 
facilitate safe cross -border trade.  
"Trade Facilitation Best Practices Implemented in Response to the 
COVID -19 Pandemic ": provides examples of good practices 
implemented by countries in response to COVID -19 in orde r to 
support governments in dealing with the crisis and improve trade 
in critical commodities.  
"Managing Risk and Facilitating Trade during COVID -19": trade 
facilitation experts discuss how countries can mitigate pandemic -
related trade risks in a time of c risis 30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Bank assistance in Vanuatu  A remote video conferencing assistance schedule was de veloped 
with Vanuatu officials.  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Bank assistance in Malawi  The TFSP supported the government to procure WiFi Routers, 
especially for the NTFC.  
The TFSP supported the Malawi Revenue Authority with 
implementation of a risk management program on the expedited 
release and clearance of critical imports.  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Bank assistance in Fiji  The TFSP supported the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service in 
releasing the "COVID -19 Response Budget and Revenue Policies " 
paper to provide details of arrangements to assist with the border 
clearance process during the pandemic.  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Bank assistance in Sierra 
Leone  The TFSP supported continued engagement with the government 
on project activities and positioned the project to accelerate 
delivery to respond to postCOVID -19 recovery challenges. The 
team will focus on streamlining customs procedures and 
harmonization with other border agencies procedures; 
strengthening  existing automation systems.  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 28 - International organization  Reported measure  Date  Source  
World Bank assistance in Central 
America At the request of the Central American Secretariat of Economic 
Integration and the Regional Customs Committee, the TFSP -
supported WBG team prepared and delivered an inventory of 
constraints being faced by the private sector and best practice 
solutions  seen globally  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Bank assistance in Europe 
and Central Asia  TFSP-supported SPS experts have commenced developing a guide 
and a set of virtual training sessions on risk management in SPS 
agencies in the Western Balkans and beyond  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Bank assistance in Africa  In Southern Africa, recovery action plans are being dev eloped at 
national and regional levels with NTFCs.  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Customs Organization  (1) Dedicated IPR CENComm group on the CENComm Platform for 
the exchange of enforcement sensitive information.  
(2) Global enforcement operation "STOP ". 
(3) Use of the Global Travel Assessment System (GTAS)  
(4) Use of the nCEN for the c ollection and sharing of COVID -19 
related intelligence.  
(5) Use of the Global Rapid Alert Network (GRAN).  
6.Newly established section, COVID -19 - WCO updates , on WCO 
website:  
• Repository of 115 Members' practices and measures in 
response to the COVID -19 pandemic aimed at: (i) facilitating 
the cross -border movement of relief and essential supplies; 
(ii) supporting the economy and sustaining supply chain 
continuity; (iii) protecting staff; and (iv) protecting the 
society.  
• HS Classific ation reference for COVID -19 medical supplies , 
available in 6 languages.  
• List of priority  medicines during the COVID -19 pandemic , 
available in 6 languages.  
• Secre tariat Note on how to establish and utilize essential 
goods lists during a disaster.  30 September 2020  WCO - What Customs can do to 
mitigate the effects of the 
COVID -19 pandemic   
  G/TFA/W/40/Rev.2  
 
- 29 - International organization  Reported measure  Date  Source  
World Customs Organization  
 Secretariat Note  on What Customs can do to mitigate the effects of 
the COVID -19 pandemic. The Secretariat Note highlights measures 
in four categories:(i) facilitating the cross-border movement of 
relief and essential supplies;(ii) supporting the economy and 
sustaining supply chain continuity; (iii) protecting staff and (iv) 
protecting the society.  
Guidelines on disaster management and supply chain continuity. 
The guidelines  are grouped in three sections linked to different 
phases of the disaster management cycle Preparedness, Response 
and Recovery. The Guidelines provide a combination of 
recommendations and best practices and are illustrated by specific 
Members' practices.  
Resolution on the role of Customs in facilitating the cross -border 
movement of situationally critical medicines and vaccine s. As a 
follow -up to the Resolution, the WCO Secretariat started collecting 
Members' practices in facilitating the cross -border movement of 
the COVID -19 vaccines.  26-27 January 2021  Statement by the WCO - Vyara 
Filipova  
World Customs Organization  
 (1) A new section  on the WCO websi te to share information related 
to the cross -border movement of the COVID -19 vaccines.  
(2) Published a Secretariat note  on practical steps to facilitate and 
secure the cross -border mo vement of COVID -19 vaccines by 
Customs.  
(3) Issued an HS Classification reference for vaccines and related 
supplies and equipment . 
(4) Secretaries General of ICAO and the WCO signed a Joint 
Statement  on the global transportation and distribution of COVID -
19 vaccines and associated medic al supplies.  
(5) Developed a tool for Customs Risk Management during a 
pandemic, and announced the organization of operation STOP II.  3 March 2021  WCO presentation on Covid -19 
related measures  
 
 
__________