G/TFA/W/40  
 
20 May 2021  
(21-4237) Page: 1/21 
Committee on Trade Facilitation    
 
 
COMPENDIUM  
 
SHARING  EXPERIENCES RELATED TO THE COVID -19 CRISIS  
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 compe ndium 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 the Members and re ported 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 Members. In those cas es 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 2020, 
21-22 Octobe r 2020, 26 -27 January 2021, and 3 March 2021. All information sources are available 
in the Trade Facilitation Agreement Database Website.1 
1.4.  The information contained in the compendium document is presented under four headings: 
Member; Reported Measure; Sou rce (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 the 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 which 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 International Organizations. This table is located in Section I II of the 
compendium document.
 
1 https://tfadatabase.org/trade -facilitation -committee/experience -sharing/topic/13 .   
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 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  Committee 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 alternative for importers that do 
not have the original document.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
European Union  VAT and duty exemption applied to certain goods procured by certain entities 
designed by EU M ember States  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 Septe mber 
2020 
European Union  Border management flexibilities in conformity with/consistent with the 
European Union Customs Code legal framework.  
 
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.  
 
Air cargo related customs procedures  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 
 
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 COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
 
 
Article 5: Other Measures to Enhance Impartiality, Non -discrimination and Transparency  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee 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 of spread of COVID -19 virus.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
 
  
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- 3 - Article 6: Disciplines on Fees and Charges Imposed on or in Connection with Importation and Exportation and Penalties  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee 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 ' clearance 
of imported and exported goods across New Zealand 's border.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 Septemb er 
2020 
 
 
Article 7: Release and Clearance of Goods  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee 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  
Brazil  Prioritized transit, release and clearance of goods according t o HS 
Classification 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 m easures 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: Trade 
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  
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- 4 - Article 7: Release and Clearance of Goods  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee date  
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  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  Simplified 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 he alth 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  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; in cludes 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 
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 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 
Facilita tion measures taken 
in response to COVID -19  30 September 
2020  
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- 5 - Article 7: Release and Clearance of Goods  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee date  
Singapore  Singapore and New Zealand launched the Declaration on Trade in Essential 
Goods 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 8: Border Agency Cooperation  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee 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 
 
 
Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee 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 importe d 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 
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  
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- 6 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee date  
Brazil  Temporary simplification of requirements on the manufacture, import and 
purchase of certain products identi fied 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 and 
health produc ts 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, biologic al 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, 
infusion pump s, 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 p ermits must still be presented in hard copy. 
The e -Longroom process will remain in place following the pandemic.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
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 sanitary 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 w ell as the suspension of some deadlines deemed 
unmeetable due to COVID -19 outbreak.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
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 
  
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- 7 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee date  
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 document screening and visit inspec tion 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 GR OUP: 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 small 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 Sep tember 
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 
 
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 
  
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 8 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee date  
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 that 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 COVI D-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 eligi bility 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 of Economy.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
 
Mexico  Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS) 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 
enables a goods clearance process before goods a rrive 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 measu res 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 GROUP: 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 
Movement Certificate EUR.1. The launch was expedited as a coron a measure, 
but the solution is a permanent trade facilitating measure.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
  
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- 9 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee 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 outbreak of COVID -19 viruses also 
pass during openin g 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 respirators 
(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 sal es and 
distribution records, which might be required for submission 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 already 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 an d 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 applicatio n 
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 
 
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.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
 
Switzerland  Simpl ified 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 
 
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.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
  
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- 10 - Article 10: Formalities Connected with Importation, Exportation and Transit  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee date  
Switzerland  Digitalisation: Electronic communication  
From July 2020, the 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, will thus be considerably 
accelerated and simplified.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
 
Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee 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.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
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.  OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
Canada  Canada is temporarily waiving customs duties and sales taxes on all 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. OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020 
Canada  e-Longroom  
Part of an Emerging Digital Customs Strategy for CBSA  e-Longroom: an Emerging 
Digital customs Strategy  20 - 22 October 
2020 
Dominican 
Republic  Temporary suspension of import duties and internal taxes 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 
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  
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 11 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee date  
Dominican 
Republic  Suspension of VAT tax on the importation of companies and goods classified 
by the PROINDUSTRI A 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 Developm ent 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 operat ors; 
• 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 - Suppor ting Trade and Development in Mozambique – "PROMOVE 
Comércio":  
Implementation of TFA reforms  European Union statement  
 20-22 October 
2020  
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 12 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee date  
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  European Union statement  
 20-22 October 
2020 
 
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 bureaucrac y for better trade facilitation;  
• 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  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 
 
Japan  Extension of time limits for customs procedures, in cluding those for payment 
of customs duties in certain 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 
 
Netherlands 
support to 
developing 
countries  An immediate support package in the short run (USD 100mln)  
 The Netherlands statement  20 – 22 October 
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 OTTAWA GROUP: Trade 
Facilitation measures taken 
in response to COVID -19 30 September 
2020  
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 13 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Committee date  
combine efforts through the Trans -Tasman e -Invoicing arrangement heads of 
agreement.  
New Zealand  Notices of direction provided for New Zealand border clearance staff to clear 
consignments (ba sed 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 
 
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 
 
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 o f 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 
 
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  Committee 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 20 – 22 October 
2020 
  
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 14 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures by land -locked developing country Members  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Challenge  Committee date  
 window, enquiry points, risk 
management team and recruitment of 
new staff   
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 equipm ent 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 
Implementation 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 su bmitted  20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Afghanistan  
  Status and challenges of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement 
Implementation in Afghanistan  Time at ports is very high (consi gnment 
take more time to release)  20 – 22 October 
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 
 
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 20 – 22 October 
2020 
  
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 15 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures by land -locked developing country Members  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Challenge  Committee date  
understanding of the agreement 
(exacerbated due to COVID -19) 
Mongolia   Implementation of the TFA by 
Mongolia  Decrease in global freight transport  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Mongolia  
  Implementation of t he 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  
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 16 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures by land -locked developing country Members  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Challenge  Committee date  
Nepal  
  Trade & Transit Facilitation: 
Nepal 's experience  Condition further sever as landlocked 
least developed country  20 – 22 October 
2020 
Nepal   Statement by Nepal  Huge digital divide among and within 
the countries  
 
A huge portion of business run ning 
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 transportatio n 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 
pandemia   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  Acceleratio n 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  
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 17 - Other TF -related COVID -19 measures by land -locked developing country Members  
Member  Reported Measure  Source  Challenge  Committee date  
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 
pandemia   20 – 22 October 
2020 
Paraguay  Automatization of transit and 
cabotage procedures  Ventanilla única del exportador 
- medidas en época de 
pandemia   20 – 22 October 
2020 
 
Section III. COVID -19 presentations by international organizations to the Committee on Trade Facilitation  
International organization  Reported measure  Committee 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 uninter rupted 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 informat ion. 
7.Go paperless.  
8.Address legal implications for commercial parties.  
9.Protect shippers and transport services providers alike.  
10.Ensure coordination.  30 September 2020  UNCTAD - Easing global 
trade and transport during 
COVID -19  
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 18 - International organization  Reported measure  Committee date  Source  
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 opport unity to reorient international 
transport operations on a sustainable path.  
4.LLDCs, SIDS and partners to strengthen global and 
regional cooperation on transport connectivity 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 e xplaining procedures and 
processes as well as COVID -19 emergency measures.  
• Coordinating border actions : NTFCs have worked 
with local authorities to expedite customs clearance 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 trans port during 
COVID -19 
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 modalities and local staffing.  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis   
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 19 - International organization  Reported measure  Committee date  Source  
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 protect ion 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 or der 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 o f crisis  30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis  
World Bank assistance in 
Vanuatu  A remote video conferencing assistance schedule was 
developed 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 
Route rs, 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 Re venue 
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 rec overy 
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  
World Bank assistance in 
Central America  At the request of the Central American Secreta riat of 
Economic Integration and the Regional Customs Committee, 
the TFSP -supported WBG team prepared and delivered an 30 September 2020  
 World Bank - WB response to 
Covid -19 crisis   
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 20 - International organization  Reported measure  Committee date  Source  
inventory of constraints being faced by the private sector 
and best practice solutions seen globally  
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 
developed 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 th e 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 collection and sharing of COVID -
19 related intelligence.  
5. Use of the Global Rapid Ale rt 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) protect ing the society.  
• HS Classification reference for COVID -19 medical 
supplies , available in 6 languages.  
• List of priority medicines during the COVID -19 
pandemic , available in 6 languages.  
• Secretariat Note on how to establish and utilize essential 
goods lists during a d isaster.  30 September 2020  WCO - What Customs can do 
to mitigate the effects of the 
COVID -19 pandemic  
World Customs Organizatio n 
 Secretariat Note  on What Customs ca n 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 
continuit y; (iii) protecting staff and (iv) protecting the 
society.  
 26-27 January 2021  Statement by the WCO - 
Vyara Filipova   
  G/TFA/W/40  
 
- 21 - International organization  Reported measure  Committee date  Source  
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 
vaccines . As a follow -up to the Resolution, the WCO 
Secretariat started collecting Members ' practices in 
facilit ating the cross -border movement of the COVID -19 
vaccines.  
World Customs Organization  
 1. A new section  on the WCO website 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 move ment 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 medical 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  
 
 
 
__________