WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
21 February 2008 
 (08-0767) 
Negotiating Group on Trade Facilitation Original:   English 
 
 
 
 
  
WTO NEGOTIATIONS ON TRADE FACILITATION  
SELF ASSESSMENT GUIDE 
 
Prepared by the World Bank
1 in Cooperation with  
the WTO Secretariat and other Annex D Organizations  
 
Revision  
 
 A guide to assist developing and least-develope d Members to assess their technical assistance 
and capacity building support needs and priorities to  implement Members' proposals on how to clarify 
and improve GATT Articles V, VIII and X.  
 
 
 
  
 
  
                                                     
 
1 Initial draft prepared by Professor David Widdowson, Centre for Customs & Excise Studies, 
University of Canberra, for and on behalf of the World Bank. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 2 
 
 
   
CONTENTS 
 
Part A 
I. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... .4 
A. NO "ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL" .........................................................................................................4  
II. USING THIS GUIDE ............................................................................................................... 5 
A. OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................................... ..5 
B. COORDINATION .........................................................................................................................5  
C. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED MEASURES ..........................................................................5  
D. MANAGING CHANGE .................................................................................................................6  
III. SUGGESTED APPROACH TO ASSESSMENT ..................................................................7  
IV. THE USE OF THE AS SESSMENT TOOL ...........................................................................8  
APPENDIX 1:  STAKEHOLDERS.....................................................................................................12  
Part B I.
 GUIDE TO IMPLEMENTATION .......................................................................................13  
A. PUBLICATION  AND  AVAILABILITY  OF INFORMATION .........................................13  
B. TIME  PERIODS  BETWEEN  PUBLICATION  AND  IMPLEMENTATION...................16  
C. CONSULTATION  AND  COMMENTING  ON NEW  AND  AMENDED  RULES ............17  
D. ADVANCE  RULINGS ...........................................................................................................18  
E. APPEAL  PROCEDURES ......................................................................................................19  
F. OTHER  MEASURES  TO ENHANCE  IMPARTIALITY,  
NON-DISCRIMINATION  AND  TRANSPARENCY..........................................................21  
G. FEES  AND  CHARGES  CONNECTED  WITH  IMPORTATION  AND  
EXPORTATION.................................................................................................................... .26 
H. FORMALITIES  CONNECTED  WITH  IMPORTATION  AND  EXPORTATION .........29  
I. CONSULARIZATION...........................................................................................................36  
J. BORDER  AGENCY  COORDINATION ..............................................................................37  
K. RELEASE  AND  CLEARANCE  OF GOODS.......................................................................38  
L. TARIFF  CLASSIFICATION ................................................................................................45  
M. MATTERS  RELATING  TO GOODS  TRANSIT ................................................................45  
ANNEX A:  ASSESSMENT TOOL.................................................................................................53  
ANNEX B:  EXAMPLE ASSESSMENT ......................................................................................106  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 3 
 
 
  GLOSSARY  
 
Annex D An Annex to the WTO July Package that sets out the modalities 
for the WTO trade facilitation negotiations 
Article V GATT Article dealing with fr eedom of transit for goods 
Article VIII GATT Article dealing with fees and formalities connected with 
importation and exportation 
Article X GATT Article requiring all trade regulations to be clearly 
published and fairly administered 
Doha Development 
Agenda The current multilateral trade negotiations that were launched at 
the 4th WTO Ministerial Conference held in Doha, Qatar in 
November 2001 
Gap Analysis A technique that may be used to determine the distance between 
the current situation of a given country and that required by 
compliance with the compulsory cont ent of a rule or in this case 
the standards set out in this Guide that are based on WTO Members' proposals  
July Package The agreed work programme for achieving a negotiated outcome 
in the Doha Development Agenda 
Member A member of the WTO 
Situation analysis A technique that may be used to determine whether national 
legislation, current procedures and documentation are relevant in 
terms of compliance with a proposal or agreement 
WCO World Customs Organization 
WTO World Trade Organization 
 TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 4 
 
 
  PART A 
 
I. INTRODUCTION 
 The WTO negotiations on trade facilitation seek to clarify and improve relevant aspects of 
Articles V, VIII and X with a view to further ex pediting the movement, release and clearance of 
goods, including goods in transit. Furthermore, as an  integral part of the negotiations, Members seek 
to identify their trade facilitation needs and prior ities, particularly those of developing and least-
developed countries. 2 
  To facilitate the process, the Secretariat has published a compilation of Members' 
proposals(TN/TF/W/43
3) and has produced the Self Assessmen t Guide for the WTO Negotiations on 
Trade Facilitation (TN/TF/W/143) (hereinafter the Guide), elaborated by the World Bank in co-
operation with the other Annex D organisations.  The primary purpose of the Guide is to provide 
developing and least-developed members with a pr actical method for assessing the type and level of 
actions required to implement the range of Member s' proposals.  Some of those actions can be 
undertaken locally by the concerned country, wh ile others will require technical assistance and 
capacity building support,  as noted by the Negotiating Group on Trade Facilitation:  
"To bring the negotiations to a successful conclu sion, special attention needs to be paid to 
support for technical assistance and capacity-bui lding that will allow developing countries 
and LDCs to participate effectively in th e negotiations, and to technical assistance and 
capacity-building to implement the results of th e negotiations that is precise, effective and 
operational, and reflects the trade facilitation n eeds and priorities of developing countries and 
LDCs".
4 
 
 The Guide distils the essence of Members' proposals through th e identification of practical 
basic standards, based,  where available on existing intern ational standards and accepted good 
practice. for the proposed measures, and it pr ovides useful guidance on assessing a Member's needs 
and priorities for local action and for technical support and capacity building against each of those standards. 
 
A. N
O "ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL" 
 The negotiations on trade facilitation have di sclosed a degree of consensus among Members 
in terms of the various reform proposals.  However,  they have also reinforced the conclusion that 
there is no "one size fits all" solution to implementation of trade facilitation principles.  In fact, a range of possible approaches to implementation, bot h in terms of resources and in pace, may be 
adopted by individual countries de pending upon their specific circumstances and the relative priorities 
they accord to specific items within thei r reform and modernization programmes. 
 
 Consequently, while this Guide identifi es some common themes across the range of 
Members' proposals, and provides guidance on best practice approaches to implementation, it still requires each Member to individually assess their pa rticular circumstances.  Such assessments, which 
should include the identification of national and regi onal priorities, will serve to inform each Member 
as to the actions they should undertake and the ty pe and level of technical assistance and capacity 
building required, providing indications as to the likely cost of implementation. 
 
                                                     
 
2 Annex D of the July Package. 
3 The compilation is periodically revised.  The latest revision can be found on the WTO website 
www.wto.org. 
4 WT/MIN(05)/DEC.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 5 
 
 
  II. USING THIS GUIDE 
A. OVERVIEW  
 The Guide consists of Part A, Part B, and Annexes.  
 
• Part A provides a brief overview of the Guide a nd sets out an eight stage approach that is 
recommended for the assessment. 
 
• Part B consists of standards and guidelin es for the needs assessment following the WTO 
Members' proposals measure by measure.  It fo llows the same format as the WTO Secretariat 
Compilation (TN/TF/W/43 (as revised), which is the format used in the negotiations. 
 
• Annex A (the Assessment Tool) contains a char t that should be completed for each proposed 
measure using the basic standard set out in Part B. 
  For practical purposes the guide makes some b asic assumptions about the various proposals, 
and identifies likely requirements based on typi cal implementation strategies and best practice 
approaches.  Throughout the guide, cross-refere nces to the relevant sections of TN/TF/W/43 are 
provided.  However, it should be kept in mind that  all proposals remain subject to change in the 
context of the ongoing negotiations. 
 
B. C
OORDINATION  
 While a few of the measures under negotiation in the WTO focus only on improving Customs 
systems and procedures, most of the measures woul d apply to all the government agencies involved in 
processing and clearing international cargo and moving goods.  In most countries this would include 
agencies responsible for health a nd safety, food inspection, import licensing, tax collection, quality 
inspection and enforcement.  Consequently, the polic ies and procedures of a number of other agencies 
are clearly included in the negotiation agenda. In th e absence of an effective coordination mechanism, 
the assessment will fail to address all rele vant aspects of government responsibility. 
  It is therefore recommended that a single ministry or agency be given overall responsibility 
for coordinating the assessment process.  Such mini stry or agency should ideally have policy or 
administrative responsibilities that are relevant to the trade facilitation agenda.  In  most cases this will 
be the agency that has overall responsibility for trad e policy.  However, the most important factor in 
establishing coordination arrangements is to iden tify a single coordinating agency that has the 
capacity to support and drive the assessment process. 
 
 Having appointed a coordinating agency, it might be useful to delegate certain aspects of the 
assessment process to the ag ency responsible for customs matters since many proposals are likely to 
impact in some way on the customs administratio n itself and/or other stakeholders involved in 
customs-related procedures.  
C. D
ESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED MEASURES  
 Part B of this guide addresses each sub-category of Members' proposals, as identified in WTO 
 document TN/TF/W/43, by providing: 
 A general description  of the proposals that have been put  forward, based on  how the proposed 
measure is commonly used or applied; 
 The basic standard  that is likely to apply to Members in  the event that the proposals are adopted. 
This is as a common minimum standard against which compliance is likely to be assessed; TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 6 
 
 
   The scope of the proposals  that fall under that particular s ub-category, which contains elements 
covered by the various proposals, based on the current status of negotiations.  The scope may 
evolve as the negotiations progress; 
 
 The requirements  that a Member must satisfy in order to meet the Basic Standard.  This section 
contains measures, legal requirements, etc. th at would be necessary to implement the proposed 
measure.  These requirements have not necessarily been mentioned in any proposal but would 
have to be in place or occur for implementation of the proposal. 
 
D. MANAGING CHANGE  
 The WTO trade facilitation agenda represents a significant programme of reform and 
modernization for many Members, particularly developing and least-developed Members.  Such initiatives place substantial burdens on both government  and private enterprise to continue to operate 
effectively while also managing a wide-ranging programme of change. 
 
 In this regard, the World Bank states: 
 
"it would make good sense for any long-term assistance and capacity building support 
provided to achieve compliance with a basic legal standard to be effectively integrated into 
wider and more comprehensive reform and moderniz ation efforts.  In this way, any technical 
assistance and capacity building support provided for implementation to a basic level 
consistent with expected WTO commitments would provide a sound foundation for a further 
development and the refinement of systems and procedures over time as experience develops 
progressively within Member countries".
5 
 
 Regardless of the underlying catalyst for change , there are three principal considerations in 
any change process –  a) identifying what needs to  change, b) determining how it should be changed 
and c) setting up the change management pro cess..  Technical assistance and capacity building 
support may be required to progress either or both of these issues.  
 In progressing the trade facilitation reforms, it can be anticipated that there will be some 
resistance to change within both the public and private sector.  Often the private sector is not homogenous.  For example, customs agents often ha ve shared interest with Customs, whereas 
shippers might be pushing for reform that coul d threaten the income b ase of customs agents. 
Consequently, effective communicati on and consultation should play a ke y part in advancing the trade 
facilitation agenda, in order to obtain ownership,  support and commitment from key stakeholders. 
   Having regard to these issues, effective management of change requires: 
 Identifying and empowering a lead agency ; 
 A clearly defined policy objective , legitimated by the appropriate political  processes, – clearly 
documented and communicated  to everyone who will be affected  by the change; 
 A tolerance for ambiguity – the final goal may well be understood, but the exact nature and extent 
of changes will become clearer during the course of the project; 
 Commitment  at all levels, including the provision of adequate resources  and clear support for 
the change process; 
 Open communication  – with all stakeholders: 
                                                     
 
5 World Bank (2006) "Needs, Priorities and Costs As sociated with Technical Assistance and Capacity 
Building for Implementation of a WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement – A Comparative Study Based on Six 
Developing Countries", World Bank, Washington DC, pp. 6-7.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 7 
 
 
   Last but by no means least, there is a need fo r a change sponsor to initiate the change process 
and sustain it through implementation.  For government re form projects, this is likely to be at director-
general or ministerial level.  The change sponsor is the force that will drive the change process and 
therefore must continually demonstrate commitment to the project and the changes that will result 
from it.  This support from the top is critical to reducing resistance to change. 
 
III. SUGGESTED APPROACH TO ASSESSMENT 
 The suggested approach to assessment  involves: 
1. Prior to launching the assessment, identifying all relevant stakeholders from both the public and 
private sectors who should be consulted duri ng the course of th e assessment process. 
Stakeholder identification is addressed  in more detail in Appendix 1. 
 During the assessment and for each subheading of the latest revision of the compilation 
TN/TF/W/43 
2. Identifying the situation that currently exists  in the Member's country relative to the 
requirements that are necessary to meet the Basic Standard. 
3. Determining whether the current situation repr esents full compliance, partial compliance, or 
non-compliance with the basic standard and requireme nts, or whether it is not applicable to the 
country. 
4. Identifying key barriers to achieving compliance wi th the basic standard and requirements in 
consultation with stakeholders. 
5. Identifying actions that must be taken in order to achieve full compliance with the basic 
standard and requirements.  In this context,  the following matters should be considered: 
 
• What initiatives are required to manage the required change, including political and 
administrative issues ?   
• What legislative changes are require d to meet the Basic Standard ? 
• What policy, system and procedural changes are required to meet the Basic Standard ? 
• What human resource implications are i nvolved in meeting the Basic Standard, 
including any indirect HRM implications ?  
• What training in the public and private sect or is required to meet the Basic Standard? 
• What equipment/ infrastructure resource requirements are required to meet the Basic 
Standard, including implementation or modifi cation of existing or new ICT hardware 
and software?  
• What organizational or structural changes are required to meet the Basic Standard? 
6. Determining whether technical assistance/capacity building support may be required to meet the 
basic standard and requirements. 
7. Identifying a lead agency or organization that will take responsibility for progressing particular 
actions, and other stakeholders  who will provide assistance. 
8. Identifying the level of priority of the required  actions and technical assistance initiatives (high, 
medium and low), depending on their importa nce from the perspective of the Member. 
 TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 8 
 
 
  IV. THE USE OF THE ASSESSMENT TOOL 
 The assessment tool in Annex A contains charts that should be filled with the outcomes of the 
needs assessment for every reviewed  proposal.  Many of the transit proposals overlap with proposals 
in GATT Articles VIII and X.  When this is the case the transit proposal  is on the same "tool" chart as 
the overlapping Articles VIII or X proposal.  For inst ance, publication for transit is on the same chart 
as publication requirements proposed under GATT Article X.   
 Below is an example of a chart, followed by ex planations on how the char t should be filled in:  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 9D.1  PROVISION OF ADVANCE RULINGS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall issue legally binding rulings in a timely manner, a nd in advance of the relevant trade transaction, at the reque st of 
an interested person who has provided the Member with all necessary information. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not Applicable:                 National Priority: High:      Medium:    Low:     None: __ 
 
Current situation relative to the 
Basic Standard. Describe in detail 
 
 Barriers to meeting Basic 
Standard 
 
 Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, tr aining, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estima ted costs and/or implementation times.) 
  What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify in 
detail. 
 
    
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments:    
Lead agency or organization and other st akeholders that would be responsible fo r implementation of this measure:    
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted: 
 
Issues to note (any comments or recommendations for negotiators, etc.) :  
 
 TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 10 
 
 
   
Current situation relative to the Basic Standard :  What is currently in practice and in legislation 
compared to the basic standard.  It is important to list the current situatio n for all agencies that 
would fall under the proposal.  If the situation is different in the different agencies then it should be 
set out agency by agency in this column.  It is im portant to keep the compar ison limited to the basic 
standard for this column and for the next 2 columns as well and not go beyond the basic standard and 
aim for best practices.  If in doubt  participants should look at the scope and requirements to meet the 
basic standard or look at the proposal itself. 
COMPLY: yes ⁯  no ⁯  partially ⁯ not applicable  ⁯:  This could be filled out at the beginning or 
after discussion.  It can sometimes be difficult to d ecide.  For example- if there is an informal practice 
by some but not all customs officers in provid ing advance rulings but nothing in the laws or 
regulations is it partial compliance or non-complian ce?  Many people have different opinions on this.  
There is no right answer.  Not applicable  means that the situation described in the measure does not 
concern the country (for example, elimination of the mandatory use of PSI is not applicable if there is 
no requirement in the country to use PSI).  
Barriers to meet Basic Standard :  It is important to make sure the real reason is understood in cases 
where the current situation does not comply with th e basic standard, identify the underlying reason.  
It is important to think behi nd the obvious initial response.   
 
What can be done locally to address barriers? (Specify in detail):   What can your country undertake 
on its own without technical assistance to overcome the barrier and meet the basic standard (and not 
to achieve best practice).  This should be as specific as possible so that the results will be useful at the 
time of implementation.  Consider the categories liste d in the heading (Actions needed to meet basic 
standard (Consider needs in legal framework, ad ministrative policy, human resources, training, 
equipment, organization, change management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or 
implementation times.))  
 
Is technical assistance/ capacity building su pport needed ? If yes, specify in detail :  Anything 
requiring outside assistance would be technical assistan ce.  It is important to make this as specific as 
possible, e.g. training on establishment of an advance ruling program/drafting of rulings for 60 
customs officers at the management level. 
 Lead agency or organization/Other stakeholders involved
:  Who would be responsible to oversee 
implementation or technical assistance for this me asure?   What stakeholders would be involved? 
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of  this measure(s) that should be consulted :  There may 
be important stakeholders that do not participate in  the assessment or are not available for particular 
measures.  It is important to note this to be su re that they are consulted before finalizing the findings 
of the assessment in order to have a complete and accurate picture of the needs and priorities. 
 
Technical Assistance Priority: High ⁯ Medium ⁯ Low ⁯ None  ⁯:  Is this measure a priority for your 
country for technical assistance?   Note that there is a tendency is to have a lot of high priorities.  
 Stakeholders consulted during the course of this Assessment
:  This should be the 
agencies/organizations that comple ted this chart.  The working gr oup can just copy and paste their 
organizations on each chart they complete. 
 
Issues to note :  This box is to allow comments for the Gen eva negotiator on the proposal, such as 
whether they strongly support it or are against it or would like more information from the WTO 
Member that made the proposal.  It can provide additional information that could be useful for the 
negotiations, for example: "legislation that would allow for implementation of this proposal is  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 11 
 
 
  currently before the Parliament".  Or comments could be made on any difficulties in completing the 
needs assessment- for example, assumptions made if the standard is too general or vague. 
 It does not need to be filled in for all propos als but only where there is a particular message. 
 
It is best to analyze the current situation and then go across line by line to fill in the other 
columns.   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 12 
 
  
  APPENDIX 1 
 
STAKEHOLDERS6 
 
The need to involve stakeho lders in the assessment process 
 The trade facilitation negotiations can represent one of the first stages in a significant reform 
process, the success of which is dependent on a sense  of ownership among the various stakeholders.  
Effective consultation with both public and privat e sector stakeholders is fundamental to achieving 
such ownership, and the approach adopted in this Guide has been developed on that basis. 
   Effective consultation with relevant stake holders serves to ensure that Geneva-based 
negotiators have the best and most complete info rmation and advice upon which to participate in the 
negotiations.  It also encourages the sharing of in formation, expertise and perspectives by those who 
are likely to be affected by the outcomes of negotia tions.  This in turn assists the process of assessing 
the likely impact of particular proposals, highlighting potential implementation difficulties and 
identifying the most appropriate approaches fo r implementation and enforcement.  Effective 
consultation therefore facilitates the identificati on of technical support and capacity building needs 
and priorities.  Stakeholder identification 
 Stakeholders are those people, groups and institu tions that might contribute to or influence the 
outcome of the negotiations and the implementati on process, and for which communication strategies 
will need to be devised. 
  To facilitate the process of stakeholder identifica tion in the current contex t, it is useful to 
envisage the entire international supply chain and consider those who may be involved at any point in 
dealing with the goods and the associated documenta tion, payments and transport, either from a 
regulatory or commercial perspective. 
 
The business community 
 To achieve a successful outcome on trade facilita tion, it is imperative to actively engage the 
business community and to take its vi ews into consideration.  Conseque ntly, it is important to have a 
good understanding of the interests of the priv ate sector and communicate regularly with those 
elements of the private sector that may be impacted  by particular aspects of the negotiations and their 
implementation.  
 The significance of engagement with the business community can be demonstrated by 
reference to trade agreements where negotia tors have secured access to export markets and 
subsequently discovered that their private sector  had no capacity to supply those markets.  
Conversely, a potentially adverse impact on the domestic industry may emerge that is neither 
highlighted nor anticipated during the course of negotiations, which points to the importance of 
involving these stakeholders at an early stage. 
 
 It is also important to bear in mind that th e WTO negotiations on trade facilitation can be very 
technical, and it is therefore important to engage experts in the consideration and analysis of the 
various issues that flow from the negotiations, including representatives from the private sector. 
                                                     
 
6 Adapted from TN/TF/W/51, WTO Trade Facilitation Negotiations Support Guide, submitted by the 
World Bank.   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 13 
 
 
  PART B 
 
I. GUIDE TO IMPLEMENTATION 
Note:  The following headings are based on those c ontained in the WTO Secretariat Compilation 
(TN/TF/W/43/Rev.(as revised)). 
 
A. PUBLICATION  AND  AVAILABILITY  OF INFORMATION 
A.1 Publication of Trade Regulations and of Penalty Provisions 
 
General Description  
These proposals seek to provide transparency of trade legislation and relevant information relating to 
or affecting the international trade in goods by publishing promptly and making it available to 
interested parties. 
 
Basic Standard  
A Member shall ensure that all relevant laws, regul ations, administrative guidelines, judicial decisions 
and administrative rulings having general applicati on are made readily available through an official 
source to any interested person.  
Scope of Proposals
7 
 The information shall include: 
 
a) Procedures of border agencies, including port, airport, and other entry-point procedures; and 
relevant forms and documents; 
b) Rate of duties and taxes imposed on or in  connection with importation or exportation 
(including applied tariff rates); 
c) Decisions and examples of customs classification; 
d) Import and export restrictions; 
e) Fees and charges imposed on or in conn ection with importation and exportation; 
f) Penalty provisions against breaches of import and export formalities; 
g) Appeal procedures; 
h) Agreements with any country or countries relating to the above issues;  
i) Outline of major trade related procedures. 
 Members shall ensure prompt publication. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
The Member makes all information covered by the scope of proposals available to governments and 
traders: 
 In a non-discriminatory, convenient and uniform ma nner including an officially designated source 
such as an official gazette or official journal; 
 
On an official website, whenever practicable; 
 All amendments to relevant mate rial are made public in the same way as the original publication. 
                                                     
 
7 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.3(a) proposals. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 14 
 
 
  The Member has organizational and other mechanisms in place to ensure that the information which it 
makes available is complete, accurate, relevant and timely. 
 
A.2 Internet Publication 
 
A.2(a) Internet Publication of the Elements set out in Article X of GATT 1994 
 
A.2(b) Internet Publication of specified inform ation setting forth the procedural sequence and 
 other requirements for importing goods into a Member's territory 
 
General Description  
 
The publication of relevant information on an official  website provides particul arly high levels of both 
transparency and accessibility.  It also allows timely publication of new and amended information. 
 
These proposals seek to provide greater transparen cy of and accessibility to trade regulations by 
making available to interested parties, via the inte rnet, all legislation and trade-related procedures 
relating to or affecting the international trade in goods. 
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall publish on an official internet s ite all trade related legislation and procedures. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
The information shall include: 
 
• laws, regulations, administrative rulings, judi cial decisions and administrative rulings; 
• Procedures of border agencies, including port, airport, and other entry-point procedures;  
• The forms and documents require d for importation and exportation 
• Rate of duties and taxes imposed on or in  connection with importation or exportation 
(including applied tariff rates); 
• Decisions and examples of customs classification; 
• Import and export restrictions; 
• Fees and charges imposed on or in conn ection with importation and exportation; 
• Penalty provisions against breaches of import and export formalities; 
• Appeal procedures; 
• Agreements with any country or countries relating to the above issues;  
• Full and precise description of its Customs procedures.  
 New and amended trade-related le gislation and procedures should be published on the internet 
before entry into force and allo w interested parties to comment. 
 Member shall notify the WTO Trade Facilitation committee of the website.  
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member makes all information covered by the scope of proposals available on a national website 
in an official WTO language.   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 15 
 
 
  The Member has organizational and other mechanisms in place to ensure that the information which it 
makes available is complete, accurate, relevant and timely.  This may include the establishment of a 
national coordination point.  A.3 Notification of Trade Regulations (*no 3
rd generation proposal available for this 
 measure) 
 
General Description  
 
These proposals seek to provide Members with in formation on proposed new or amended trade 
regulations that are being considered by other Members, which may have a significant impact on 
them.  This is required by individual WTO Agreements including the Agreement on Customs 
Valuation, Rules of Origin, TBT, SPS, etc.   
 Basic Standard
 
 
When introducing or amending trade regulations th at may have a significant effect on the trade of 
other Members, a Member shall notify interested parties and the WTO Secretariat of the proposed 
introduction or amendment at the earliest possible stage prior to finalizing the proposed measures. 
 Scope of Proposals
8 
 
Any proposed new or amended trade regulations [or "core measures"] that may have a significant 
effect on the trade of other Members. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has formal mechanisms  in place which ensure that any proposed new or amended trade 
regulations that may have a significant effect on the trade of other Members are, at the earliest 
possible stage, and prior to finalization: 
 Notified to interested parties; 
 
Notified to the WTO in one of the WTO official languages.  A.4 Establishment of Enquiry Points 
 
General Description
 
 
Transparency and accessibility of information is impor tant for traders to be able to efficiently 
undertake their business.  These proposals seek to provide greater accessibility to trade-related 
information and documents by providing access through enquiry points for interested parties on a 
non-discriminatory basis.  Member s are already required to have Enquiry Points for SPS and TBT 
matters.  This proposal would expand the requirement to also include an Enquiry Point(s) for other 
trade–related information.  
Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall establish a national enquiry point or  points or be part of a regional enquiry point 
which are responsible for providing or for f acilitating access to trade-related information or 
documents to interested parties on a non-discriminatory basis. 
                                                      
8 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.3 (a) proposals. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 16 
 
 
  Scope of Proposals  
 
Establishment of enquiry point or points with responsibility for:  
Answering relevant enquiries from interested partie s [directly and/or through the enquiry points of 
other Members or the WTO Secretariat]; 
 
Providing relevant information a nd documents related to trade procedures in a non-discriminatory and 
convenient and timely manner; 
 
Communicate among national Enquiry Points.  
Establishment of a primary enquiry point whic h facilitates coordination among competent border 
agencies, whenever practicable.  
Notifying the WTO of contact info rmation for the enquiry points. 
 Timely provision of information for free or for fees that reflect the cost of services rendered. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has established and maintains enquiry poin t or points or participates in regional ones that 
reflect the scope of proposals.  
The Member provides competent staff to service such enquiry points. 
 
The Member has formal mechanisms in place to no tify and regularly update the WTO of the contact 
information for the enquiry points.  A.5 Other Measures to Enhance the A vailability of Information (*no 3
rd generation proposal 
 available for this measure)  
It has been proposed that the official WTO websit e provide links to Members' official websites.  
Relevant measures associated with these propo sals are contained in A.2(a) and A.2(b). 
 B. TIME
 PERIODS  BETWEEN  PUBLICATION  AND  IMPLEMENTATION 
B.1 Interval between Publication and Entry into Force 
 General Description
 
These proposals seek to ensure that a reasonable period is provided between the  publication of 
proposed new and amended laws, regul ations, rulings etc. and their entry into force in order to 
contribute to informed compliance, by providing an  opportunity for those stakeholders to become 
acquainted with them and prepare for compliance.  
Basic Standard
 
A Member shall ensure that, in principle, inform ation relating to proposed new and amended rules of 
general application is made available to interest ed persons in advance of their implementation. 
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 17 
 
 
  Scope of Proposals9 
Proposed new and amended laws, regul ations and administrative rulings  of general application, or 
their drafts or summaries. Urgent circumstances or other limited exceptions  to this requirements must be made public. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
The Member has in place legislation or administrative arrangements which clearly set out timeframes 
and procedures relating to the publication of new and amended rules prior to their entry into force. 
 C. CONSULTATION
 AND  COMMENTING  ON NEW  AND  AMENDED  RULES 
C.1 Prior Consultation and Commenting on New and Amended Rules 
 C.2 Information on Policy Objectives Sought 
 
General Description
 
Public consultation and feedback improves the predic tability of the regulatory environment, increases 
transparency and contributes to an improved the leve l of  compliance. Such consultation and feedback 
may be organized by the relevant ministry or regulatory agency. 
 
These proposals seek to ensure effective consultatio n on the national level on proposed trade-related 
laws, regulations, administrative rulings etc. in orde r to provide interested persons with an opportunity 
to comment on the proposals, and for Members to take such comments into account, as appropriate, 
prior to their implementation.  
Basic Standard
 
A Member shall introduce and maintain opportunities for consultation to seek and take account of 
comments from interested persons on proposals to introduce new, or amend existing trade-related 
rules prior to their implementation. 
 Scope of Proposals
10 
Consultation mechanisms on proposals to introduc e new, or amend existi ng trade-related laws, 
regulations and administrative rulings.  
Regular consultation between border agencies and traders. 
 
Provision of reasonable timeframes for comme nts to be submitted and considered. 
 Information on policy objectives pursued shall be provided. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
The Member conducts regular, formal consultations at the national level with the public and private 
sector on proposed new or amended legislative and administrative arrangements.  Such mechanisms 
include:  
Procedures for obtaining comments from interested persons; 
                                                     
 
9 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.3(a). 
10 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.4 proposals. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 18 
 
 
  Procedures for taking such comments into account prior to implementation of proposals, and for 
providing public feedback on the acceptance or otherwise of the comments received; 
 Reasonable timeframes. 
 
The Member provides competent sta ff to undertake such consultation. 
 
D. ADVANCE
 RULINGS 
D.1 Provision of Advance Rulings 
 General Description
 
In order to provide the international trading co mmunity with greater commercial predictability and 
certainty, and to facilitate their compliance with re gulatory requirements, many administrations have 
implemented a system of advance rulings.  This syst em allows a trader to apply for a written ruling on 
how the laws in the country of importation will be a pplied to their specific factual situation when they 
import.  These rulings generally apply to tariff classi fication, valuation and origin.  Such rulings are 
supplied by Customs on request, and in many cases are legally binding, provided they are based on 
complete and accurate information.  The WTO Rul es of Origin Agreement already requires Members 
to provide advance rulings on origin.  These proposal s seek to establish such a system of binding 
rulings in other customs areas.  
Basic Standard
 
A Member shall issue legally binding rulings in a tim ely manner, and in advance of the relevant trade 
transaction, at the request of an interested pe rson who has provided the Member with all necessary 
information. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
Legally binding advance rulings in areas such as: 
 Tariff classification; 
 
Duty drawback;   
Rules of origin;  and 
 
Customs valuation
11. 
 Members should provide details on information re quirements, application, timeliness, validity, 
notification, publication/confidentialit y and review of advance rulings. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
The Member has in place national legislation or administrative arrangements which set out transparent 
and predictable procedures for applying for, issu ing, modifying and revoking an advance ruling, 
including: 
 The procedures and formalities to be follow ed, including review, appeal and revocation 
procedures; 
                                                      
11 Not in relation to the value of the goods, but in re lation to the treatment of particular aspects of the 
transaction for valuation purposes.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 19 
 
 
   Particulars that must be supplied by an applicant; 
 Timeframes, including timeframes for deci sion-making and the validity of rulings; 
 The format in which the ruling is provided, which must include reasons for the decision; 
 Circumstances under which a ruling ceases to have effect. 
 
All such rulings are honoured by the issuing authority in respect of the applicant's goods concerned, at 
any border post, for the specified period, provided the facts and circumstances on which the ruling is 
based remain unchanged.  
Rulings that set a wide precedent should be made available to other traders. 
 The maintenance of comprehensive records relati ng to all aspects of the advance ruling system. 
 
E. APPEAL
 PROCEDURES 
E.1 Right of Appeal 
 
General Description  
Government agency decisions can have an immediate and detrimental effect on traders affected by the 
decisions.  These proposals seek to introduce effectiv e appeal procedures that will enable affected 
traders to seek review of decisions made and to receive a prompt and considered response to their 
appeals. 
 
Procedures need to be as simple, straightforward and timely as possible.  All requirements on both the appellant and government agencies must be clearly la id out in legislation and easily accessible to all 
parties.  Government agencies must inform appellants in writing of decisions and must implement 
final decisions promptly.  
Basic Standard
 
A Member shall provide a legal right of appeal  in customs and other trade-related matters. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
Legal right of appeal w ithout penalty against rulings and decisi ons relating to impor tation, exportation 
and transit that: 
 
Is non discriminatory; 
 
Is easily accessible, with costs being reasonable;  
Provides appellants and other interested persons with clear and transparent procedures; 
 Provides affected persons with reasons  for making a particular decision; 
 
Provides administrative appeal independent of the em ployee or office of the agency which issued the 
decision, with subsequent right to appeal to a judicial body; 
 
Includes a right to representa tion by independent counsel; 
 
Provides a timeframe for resolution of appeals at an administrative level;  In the event of undue delay 
the trader has the right to bring the case to the next higher instance;
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 20 
 
 
  Provides the opportunity for traders, upon re quest, to receive information concerning the 
administrative decision such as the reasoning of th e decision including applied laws and regulations; 
 Includes an opportunity to raise complaints informally through complaints lodgement and handling procedures. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
The Member has in place national legislation that pr ovides a right to affected persons to be given, 
upon written request, an explanation of the reasons fo r a trade-related decision; and for the person to 
have a right of appeal to a competent authorit y which may be the agency concerned, another 
administrative authority, arbitration, a special tribunal or, in the final instance, a judicial authority. 
 The appeal procedures are clearly outlined in natio nal legislation, and the legal requirements and 
procedures for filing an appeal are readily accessibl e to the trade community and the general public, 
and address all elements identified in  the Scope of Proposals including: 
 Requirements for an appeal to be lodged in wr iting stating the grounds on which the appeal is 
being made; 
 The time limits within which an appeal must be lodged; 
 Requirements for the decision in relation to the app eal to be provided to the appellant in writing, 
together with the reasons for that decision and advi ce as to the appellant's further rights of appeal 
and relevant time limits. 
 
National legislation outlines the specific types of de cisions that may be subject to appeal, such as 
decisions on tariff classification, valuation, origin, licensing, permits to import or export, refunds, etc. 
 
Where an appeal to the relevant authority has been  dismissed, the Member provides a right of appeal 
in national legislation to an authority that is independent of that authority. 
 
E.2 Release of Goods in Event of Appeal (*no 3
rd generation  text) 
 
General Description  
 Where a disputed decision is the subject of an appeal, goods should normally  be released, with the 
possibility in given circumstances of duty payment being held in abeyance.  These proposals seek to 
establish such a regime, which should be subject, where required by national legislation, to the 
provision of a guarantee, such as a surety or deposit.   This is already required by the WTO Valuation 
Agreement for disputes concerning the customs value of the goods. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
Where a disputed decision is the subject of an appeal, a Member shall generally allow goods the 
subject of the decision to be released and, where pr acticable, hold payment of duties and other taxes in 
abeyance pending resolution of the appeal, upon provision of a guarantee where necessary. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 All goods that are the subject of an appeal against a ruling or decision relating to importation, 
exportation and transit. 
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 21 
 
 
  Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has in place national legislation and/or administrative arrangements that generally provide for goods that are the subject of an appeal  to be released, and that identify circumstances in 
which the payment of duties and other taxes may be held in abeyance pending resolution of the 
appeal.   
 
A system of that allows for the provision of a guarantee in the form of a surety, deposit or some other appropriate instrument. 
 
E.3 Appeal Mechanisms in a Customs Union 
 General Description
 
 These proposals are designed to estab lish mechanisms to streamline appeals against decisions relating 
to the importation of goods into a customs union, by having such appeals h eard and decided at the 
Customs union level.  
Basic Standard
 
 Where a disputed decision relating to the importation of goods into a customs union is the subject of 
an appeal, a Member shall agree to have the matter heard and decided at the customs union level. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Appeal mechanisms relating to adverse findings of inspection authorities, in particular for inspection 
decision relating to food items, at points of importation into a customs union, including: 
 Appeals against member state decisions to be heard and decided at the Customs union level; 
 
Appellate decisions to be binding on the inspecti on authorities of all members of the Customs union. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 The Member's national legislation and relevant customs union agreements provide for the appeal 
processes  identified in the Scope of Proposals and for recognition of the decision. 
 
F. OTHER
 MEASURES  TO ENHANCE  IMPARTIALITY,  NON-DISCRIMINATION  
AND  TRANSPARENCY 
F.1 Uniform Administration of Trade Regulations (*no 3rd generation proposal available for 
 this measure) 
 General Description
 
 
These proposals seek to provide traders and other stake holders with certainty and clarity in relation to 
classification, valuation and other trade-related decisions by ensuring the uniform administration of trade regulations. 
 
Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall administer trade regulations in a uniform and impartial manner. 
 TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 22 
 
 
  Scope of Proposals  
 
Establishment of a central point within government  with primary responsibility for interpreting trade 
regulations such as those relating to custom s classification, customs valuation, etc. 
 
Compilation and distribution of case studies to support staff and stakeholder training, particularly in 
relation to customs classification and customs valuation. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has in place national legislation and administrative arrangements that support the uniform and impartial administration of trade regulations, including: 
 All relevant information of ge neral application relating to customs laws and procedures is 
publicly available (see 5.A); 
 Expert areas within relevant agencies are est ablished, which have primary responsibility for 
interpreting trade regulations for which the agency  has administrative responsibility, such as those 
relating to tariff classification, customs valuation, import/export restrictions, etc.; 
 Case studies are used to support customs classification and customs valuation training; 
 The Member has appropriate audit procedures in pl ace to ensure uniformity of administration and 
impartiality of decision making. 
 F.2 Maintenance and Reinforcement of Integrity and Ethical Conduct among Officials  
 
F.2(a) Establishment of a Code of Conduct (*no 3
rd generation proposal available for this 
 measure)  General Description
 
 Corruption can be a major inhibitor of trade through e.g., delaying cargo, payment of bribes and 
improper classification and valua tion of goods.  Corruption within border agencies may also impact 
negatively on investment and adversely affect th e reputation of the country and Government which 
those officials represent. 
 
Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall establish, maintain and enforce a code of conduct which addresses the rights and 
obligations of government officials.  
Scope of Proposals
12 
 Development of codes of conduct for staff of border agencies, which identify their rights and 
obligations. 
 
Establishment of coordination and control mech anisms between customs administrations and 
organizations involved in devising ethics policies for officials.  
Appointment of senior officials responsible for ensu ring the delivery of integrity training programmes 
for government officials.  
                                                     
 
12 Includes issues raised under F.2(e) and F.2(f).  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 23 
 
 
  Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has in place legislation or administrative arrangements that establish a Code of Conduct consistent with the principles set out in the revised Arusha Declaration
13, including: 
 The incorporation of the principles of integrity and ethics into training programmes for 
government officials; 
 Appropriate coordination and c ontrol programmes to enforce the provisions of the Code. 
 
F.2(b) Computerized System to Reduce/Eliminate Discretion (*no 3rd generation proposal 
 available for this measure)  
General Description
 
 
The automation of certain customs pr ocesses, such as the clearance pr ocess, has the effect of reducing 
officer discretion and, as such is one way in which corrupt practices may be addressed. 
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall use information technology to reduce officer discretion, where practicable. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Introduction of computerized systems to reduce (or el iminate) the discretion exercised by officials and 
employees with respect to basic customs decisions. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has, where practicable, used information technology to reduce officer discretion.  F.2(c) System of Penalties  (*no 3
rd generation proposal available for this measure) 
 
General Description  
 
The inclusion of appropriate penalty regimes in official codes of conduct and national legislation 
provides the necessary means of punishing corrupt behavi our of government officials, and can also act 
as an effective deterrent. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall incorporate penalty  provisions applying to  corrupt practices of government officials 
in its national legislation. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
Incorporation of a system of penalties in a Member 's national legislation.  In respect to serious 
offences consideration be given to pursuing cr iminal actions against corrupt officials. 
 
                                                      
13 Arusha Declaration is the Declaration of th e Customs Co-operation Council Concerning Good 
Governance and Integrity in Customs. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 24 
 
 
  Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has incorporated a system of penalties in its customs legislation.  F.2(d) Technical Assistance to Create/Build up Capacities to Prevent and Control Customs 
 Offences (*no 3
rd generation proposal available for this measure) 
 
This proposal relates to the provision of tec hnical assistance to create and build up a Member's 
capacity to prevent and control cu stoms offences.  As such, it is covered by other F.2 proposals. 
 
F.2(e) Appointment of Staff for Education and Training (*no 3rd generation proposal available 
 for this measure) 
 
This matter is dealt with under proposal F.2(a). 
 
F.2(f) Coordination and Control Mechanisms (*no 3rd generation proposal available for this 
 measure) 
 This matter is dealt with under proposal F.2(a). 
 
F.3 Import Alerts/Rapid Alerts 
 
General Description
 
 
Import alert/rapid alert is a border control mech anism adopted by some countries and customs unions 
to monitor and ensure the quality of imported food produc ts.  It is imposed in the event of detection of 
contaminated imports or import of products not mee ting the required standards.  As a result of such 
alert, a predetermined number of subsequent e xport consignments from th e relevant exporter are 
subjected to 100% inspection at points of entry in to the country/customs union.  These proposals seek 
to ensure that the alert itself do es not create a barrier to trade. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall not operate an import alert/rapid alert system in a way that creates an unnecessary 
barrier to trade. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
The application of a system of import/rapid alert, including: 
 Uniform, objective standards; 
 
Uniform application across a customs union; 
 
Imposition only on the basis of positive evidence that  prescribed objective standards have not been 
met; 
 
Use of less trade restrictive arrangements where appropriate;  
Guidelines for termination, including time frames and notification of termination. 
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 25 
 
 
  Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
Where the Member and/or customs union has in place a system of import/rapid alert, it should reflect 
the requirements identified in the Scope of Proposals. 
 
F.4 Detention 
 
General Description  
 
This proposal seeks to ensure that importers or th eir authorized agent are informed promptly when 
their goods have been detained.  
Basic Standard
 
 When goods are detained by a competent authority, a Member shall provide the importer or their 
authorized agent with information about the detention in a timely manner. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Detention for the purposes of ensuring compliance by customs or any other relevant authority. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 The Member has in place national legislation or administrative arrangements which clearly set out the 
procedures for notifying importers and/or their agents promptly in situations where goods are 
detained. 
 
F.5 Test Procedures 
 General Description
 
 Customs and other competent authorities may draw and test samples where deemed necessary, to 
establish the tariff description of goods declared, protec t health and safety, or to ensure the application 
of other provisions of na tional legislation.  This proposal seeks to provide traders with the right to a 
second confirmatory test in situations wher e the initial test returns adverse findings. 
 
Basic Standard
 
 
When samples of goods are tested by competen t authorities for the purpose of ensuring the 
appropriate application of national legislation, a Member shall provi de importers, exporters or their 
authorized agents with the right to a second confirmatory test. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
Confirmatory testing of imports or exports, including:  
Clear procedures, including a validated test method; 
 Accredited laboratories and the publication of a list of such laboratories; 
 
Acceptance of the results of a confirmatory t est by all member states of a customs union. 
 TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 26 
 
 
  Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has in place national legislation or administrative arrangements which clearly set out the procedures for confirmatory testing as required by the Scope of Proposals. 
 
G. FEES
 AND  CHARGES  CONNECTED  WITH  IMPORTATION  AND  EXPORTATION 
G.1 General Disciplines on Fees and Charges Impo sed on or in Connection with Importation 
and Exportation 
 
G.1(a) Specific Parameters for Fees/Charges  G. 1(c) Prohibition of Collection of Unpublished 
Fees and Charges 
 
General Description  
 
Article VIII paragraph 1(a) establishe s certain obligations regarding f ees and charges.  It authorizes 
only those fees and charges that are limited to the approximate cost of services rendered, and prohibits 
fees and charges aimed at protecting domestic goods or having the effect of an import/export tax.  
These proposals seek to ensure that the principles of Article VIII are observed. 
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall ensure that fees and charges do not exceed the approximate costs of services 
rendered and are in direct and/or indirect connecti on with a specific importation, exportation or transit 
formality.   
 
Scope of Proposals14 
 
a) Fees and charges shall not be collected if they have not been publicly notified; 
 
b) Specification of services for which a gove rnment agency may impose fees and 
charges15; 
c) Measurement of directly relevant costs; 
 
d) Recovery of only (approximate) actual costs; 
 
e) Fees and charges collected by public agen cies and/or other entities on their behalf. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
Fees and charges imposed by the Member reflect th e approximate cost of the services provided by the 
relevant agency.  Relevant legislative and/or administrative arrangements include: 
 
a) Legislative and administrative arrangement s that explicitly prohibit the collection of 
any fees or charges that have not been publicly notified; 
 
b) Agency mechanisms to identify and capture relevant costs;  
c) Prohibition of ad valorem  fees and charges; 
 
                                                     
 
14 Includes similar issues relating to tr ansit in M.2(a) and M.2(c) proposals. 
15 Including tasks undertaken on behalf of other agencies.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 27 
 
 
  d) Consolidation of fees and charges, where practicable16. 
 
G.1(b) Publication/Notification of Fees/Charges 
 General Description
 
These proposals seek to increase the transparency and predictability of costs relating to cross-border 
trade by requiring the publication of all trade-related fees and charges. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall publish information on fees and charges in a timely manner prior to their 
implementation or amendment. 
 
Scope of Proposals17 
 
Publication of all trade-related fees and charges, including: 
 Publication in advance of implementation; 
 
Public accessibility;  
Information dissemination processes, including the internet; 
 Disclosure to WTO. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member makes information on fees and charges publicly available, including: 
Adequate prior notice of implementation or amendment; 
 
Clear specification of the service provided, the legal basis for charging, the applicable fee or charge, 
how it may be paid, and the responsible agency; 
 
Publication via an officially designated medium, and where feasible and possible, the Member's 
official website. 
 
The Member notifies the WTO where information on its fees and charges may be found. 
 
G.1(c) Prohibition of Collection of Unpublished Fees and Charges - combined with G.1(a)  
G.1(d) Periodic Review of Fees/Charges 
 
General Description
 
 
These proposals seek to ensure the ongoing appropriateness of trade-related fees and charges through 
period review to ensure compliance. 
 
                                                      
16 See also G.2 proposals. 
17 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.2(a) proposals. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 28 
 
 
  Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall review its trade-related fees and charges periodically to ensure compliance with WTO commitments. 
 
Scope of Proposals
18 
 
Regular agency review of the level and number of  cross-border trade-related fees and charges, and 
opportunities for rationalisation of those fees and charges. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has established administrative review me chanisms within relevant agencies to ensure the 
appropriateness of fees and charges, includi ng mechanisms to independently verify the 
appropriateness of fees and charges. 
 
G.1(e) Automated Payment (*no 3rd generation proposal available for this measure) 
 
General Description  
 This proposal seeks to encourage the use of automated payment systems, to reduce paperwork and 
give traders quicker and more efficient service. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall permit automated payment of dutie s and other trade-related fees and charges where 
agencies have the necessary facilities. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Automated payment of duties and other fees and charges.  
Associated systems and payment methods. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member accepts automated payment of all duties and other trade-related fees and charges where agencies have the necessary automated pa yment and accounting systems in place. 
 
G.2 Reduction/Minimization of the Number  and Diversity of Fees/Charges (*no 3
rd 
generation proposal available for this measure) 
 This matter is dealt with under proposal G.1.  
                                                     
 
18 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.2(b) proposals.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 29 
 
 
  H. FORMALITIES  CONNECTED  WITH  IMPORTATION  AND  EXPORTATION 
H.1 Disciplines on Formalities/Procedur es and Data/Documentation Requirements 
Connected with Importation and Exportation 
 
H.1(a) Non-discrimination (*no 3rd generation proposal available for this measure) 
 
General Description  
 
Consistent with the basic WTO principles there is a requirement to ensure that goods moving through 
borders are not discriminated against on the basis of their country of origin or mode of transport. 
These proposals seek to ensure that all goods ar e treated the same way in terms of regulatory 
formalities and procedures, although goods may be treated differently according to objective risk 
assessment criteria. 
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall ensure that the design, applica tion and effect of import and export practices and 
procedures do not discriminate against goods on the basis of their origin and/or mode of 
transportation. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Non-discrimination in the design, application and effect of import and export requirements, 
procedures and formalities in relation to: 
 
 The origin of goods/like products; 
 
 Mode of transport. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has in place national legislation and administrative arrangements which:  
Expressly provide for the principle of non-discrimination; 
 
Ensure uniform national interpretation and application of the arrangements. 
 
H.1(b) Periodic Review of Formalities and Requirements
19; H.1(c) Reduction/Limitation of 
Formalities/Procedures and Da ta/Documentation Requirements 
 
General Description  
 
These proposals seek to ensure the ongoing appropr iateness of trade-related formalities and 
requirements through periodic review and to ensure that they are the minimum required to ensure 
compliance with legitimate policy objectives. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member, with input from the private sector, shall periodically review  its import and export 
formalities and requirements with a view to simp lify and reduce and to ensure that they are 
                                                      
19 Note that similar issues relating to fees and charges are addressed in G.1(d) proposals. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 30 
 
 
  appropriate and are not  maintained once the circ umstances or objectives giving rise to their adoption 
no longer exist. 
 Scope of Proposals
20 
 
Formalities and documents should not be more admini stratively burdensome or trade restrictive than 
necessary to achieve their legitimate objectives.  They  are applied in an efficient manner so as not to 
constitute an unnecessary obstacle to trade.  
Regular, periodic reviews of form alities and documentation requirement s relating to imports, exports 
and transit that take account of:  
Relevant new information and business practices; 
 The availability and adoption of new techniques and technology; 
 
International best practice;  
Private sector and other stakeholder input. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has established administrative review me chanisms within relevant agencies to ensure the 
ongoing appropriateness of formalities and documentati on requirements, which include all elements 
identified in the Scope of Proposals. 
 
Stakeholder consultation arrangement s are in operation which enable interested parties to provide 
input to the review process.  
The Member has in place legislative and/or administ rative arrangements to ensure that trade-related 
formalities and documentation requirements are li mited to that necessary for the assessment and 
collection of duties and taxes, the compilation of  trade statistics and the achievement of other 
legitimate policy objectives.  
 
H.1(c) Reduction/Limitation of Formalit ies/Procedures and Data/Documentation 
 Requirements (Combined with H1(b))  
 
H.1(d) Use of International Standards 
 
General Description
 
 
These proposals seek to simplify trade procedur es and enhance trade facilitation by requiring 
documents to conform to international standards. 
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall use relevant international standard s as the basis for their import, export and transit 
procedures or with internal transfer of payments.  
                                                     
 
20 Includes matters relating to goods in transit identified in M.3(b) proposals.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 31 
 
 
  Scope of Proposals21 
 
Laws, regulations, procedures and systems relating to import, export and transit. 
 
Use of appropriate regional standards where they exist. 
 
Use of electronic data interchange between customs and traders. 
 Use of UN Layout Key and UN Trade Data Elements Directory (UNTDED) 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has adopted relevant internati onal standards, including but not limited to: 
 WCO Revised Kyoto Convention; 
 WTO Customs Valuation Agreement; 
 WCO Harmonized System Convention; 
 WCO Istanbul Convention; 
 UNEDIFACT and UN Layout Key for trade documents. 
 
H.1(e) Uniform Customs Code (*no 3rd generation proposal available for this measure) 
 General Description
 
 This proposal seeks to simplify tr ade procedures and enhance trade f acilitation by requiring that each 
country or customs union have a coherent body of national legislation and a single import and export 
declaration, administrative message or data set. 
 
Basic Standard
 
 
Each Member or customs union shall ensure that national customs legislation is uniform or aligned 
and shall introduce a single import and export declar ation, administrative message or data set. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 Uniform customs code/aligned customs legislation. 
 
Single import and export declaration, administrative message or data set.  
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 Uniform customs code/aligned customs legislation. 
 
National customs legislation or requirements for a customs union should be c ontained in a coherent 
body of legislation. 
 The Member uses a single import and export: 
 
Declaration; 
                                                     
 
21 Includes matters relating to goods in tr ansit identified in M.3(d) proposals.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 32 
 
 
  Administrative message;  or 
 
Data set.  H.1(f) Acceptance of Commercially A vailable Information and of Copies 
 General Description
 
 These proposals recognize that the international trading community generates its own commercial 
trade-related documentation, and seeks to ensure th at authorities use such information the greatest 
extent possible for the purposes of fulfilling their regul atory responsibilities.  In the same context, the 
proposals also seek to achieve acceptance of copies of releva nt documents by authorities. 
 
Basic Standard
 
 
For the purposes of facilitating trade, a Member shall accept relevant information already available in 
the context of commercial transactions, and copies of relevant documents, wherever practicable. 
 
Scope of Proposals22 
 Copies of documents are accepted by rele vant authorities, in particular: 
 
Commercial documents (invoices, bills of lading, etc.);  
Authenticated copies of originals in lieu of the or iginal document where a government agency already 
holds the original and multiple authorities are involve d.  The agency holding the original authenticate 
the copy. 
 Where documents are submitted electronically and are authenticated no paper copy shall be required. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
Where information is already available in comme rcial documentation that has been submitted to 
customs and other border agencies (e.g., quantity and commercial description of the goods), the 
relevant authorities rely on that information for the purposes of fulfilling their responsibilities, and do 
not require the same information to  be submitted in another form. 
 Legislation in place providing for lega l record keeping of documents for a specified period by traders.  
 H.1(g) Automation (*no 3
rd generation proposal available for this measure) 
 General Description
 
 
These proposals support the use of information and communication technologies as important tools 
for promoting trade facilitation and reducing costs for traders.  
Basic Standard
 
 A Member shall use information technology and electronic commerce to automate its import and 
export procedures [to the greatest extent possible]. 
 
                                                     
 
22 Includes matters relating to goods in tr ansit identified in M.3(d) proposals.   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 33 
 
 
  Scope of Proposals  
 
An electronic system should replace paper based pr ocedures covering import and export declaration 
and clearance, revenue payment, and processes, and exchange of data. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member's legislation provides for electronic procedures.  
Current procedures are automated. 
 Appropriate IT system in place. 
 
H.1(h) Single Window/One-time Submission 
 General Description
 
 These proposals seek to facilitate trade by introduc ing the use of a "single window" for submitting, 
once only and to a single authority, all documentatio n and data relating to import, export and transit 
procedures.  This authority should undertake onward distribution of this  information to all the relevant 
authorities or agencies.   
 
Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall establish a system that allows tr aders to submit import and export documentation and 
data (including electronic versions of them) once only, to a single agency.  
 
Scope of Proposals23 
 
Requires one-time only lodgement of impor t and export documentation and data; 
 Onward distribution to all relevant agencies undertaken by the single window; 
 
Notification of single window contact information through WTO Secretariat;  
Use of information technology where possible; 
 Use of relevant international standards. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member: 
 
Has designated single window sites/locations/systems; 
 Has established inter-agency coordination arrangements; 
 
Has rationalized all relevant agency documentary/data requirements.  
                                                     
 
23 Note also J.1 proposals relating to the co-ordination of agency inspections, and H.1(g) proposals 
relating to automation. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 34 
 
 
  H.1(i) Elimination of Pre-Shipment Inspection 
 
General Description  
 
These proposals seek to eliminate the mandatory use of pre-shipment inspection (PSI) practices, 
which are considered to be redundant if customs and other relevant authorities are performing their 
roles effectively. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall not have any legislative or admini strative requirement for the mandatory use of pre-
shipment inspections or their equivalent. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
Pre-shipment inspections or their equivalent. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has no legislative or administrative requirement for the use of pre-shipment inspections or their equivalent. 
 
H.1(j) Phasing out Mandatory Use of Customs Brokers 
 General Description
 
 
These proposals seek to eliminate the mandatory us e of customs brokers, on the basis that traders 
should not be obliged to use customs brokers if they wish to deal directly with Customs.  
Basic Standard
 
 A Member shall not mandate the use of customs brok ers.  If Customs brokers are subject to licensing, 
such licensing rules shall be transparent, non-discriminatory and proportionate. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Licensing and use of customs brokers.  
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 The Member has no legislative or administrative requirement for the mandatory use of customs 
brokers. 
 
Where legislative and/or administrative rules recognize the use of customs brokers' services: 
 The use of such services is discretionary; 
 
Traders are not discriminated against on the basis of  their choice to employ the services of a customs 
broker, or to deal directly with the relevant authorities; 
 
Any licensing rules are transparent, non-discriminatory and proportionate.   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 35 
 
 
  H.1(k) Same Border Procedures within a Customs Union, and 
 
H.1(m) Uniform Forms and Documentation Require ments Relating to Import Clearance within 
a Customs Union 
 
General Description  
 
These proposals seek to require member states of a customs union to adopt the same border 
procedures for the clearance of goods, including the clearance of food and agricultural products. Also 
to adopt uniform forms and documentation requirements for the clearance of goods. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
Members of a customs union shall adopt the same border procedures and associated standards and  
uniform forms and documentation requirements for the clearance of goods. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
Clearance procedures and associated standards, including specifications, terminologies and 
definitions, inspection, sampling and test methods.  
Import, export and transit clearance forms and documentation requirements. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
Customs union agreements and the Member's legisl ation and administrative procedures provide for 
the same clearance procedures, standards, unifo rm forms and documentation requirements as outlined 
in the Scope of Proposals.  H.1(l) Testing Methods Based on Specific Product Features (*no 3
rd generation proposal 
 available for this measure) 
 General Description
 
 This proposal seeks to ensure that testing methods used by regulatory authorities are based on specific 
product features. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall use testing methods  that are based on specific product features and the physical state 
of the product at the point of consumption. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
Testing methods should be based on:  
Specific product features; 
 Physical state at the point of consumption, such as "fresh", "dehydrated" or "otherwise processed". 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
Product testing methods used by the Member vary acco rding to the particular features of the product. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 36 
 
 
  H.1(m) Uniform Forms and Documentation Require ments Relating to Import Clearance within 
a Customs Union 
 Combined with H.1(k) 
 
H.1(n) Option to Return rejected Goods to the Exporter  
 
General Description
 
 
This proposal seeks to provide trad ers with an option to return food consignments to the exporter in 
cases where they are rejected by the importer due to their failure to meet certain standards. 
 
Basic Standard  
 A Member shall provide for food cons ignments to be returned to th e exporter in cases where they are 
rejected by the importer or government agencies due  to their failure to meet commerce standards. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Food consignments rejected due to fa ilure to meet certain standards. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 The Member has legislative and/or administrative pr ovisions which provide for rejected consignments 
to be returned to the exporter; and guidance as to when such provisions may apply. 
 
I. CONSULARIZATION 
I.1 Prohibition of Consular Transaction Requirement 
 
General Description
 
 
This proposal defines consularization as the procedure of obtaining from a consul of the importing Member in the territory of the exporting Member, or  in the territory of a third party, a consular 
invoice or a consular visa for a commercial invoice , certificate of origin, manifest, shippers' export 
declaration, or any other customs documentation in connection with the importation of the good.     
 
This practice can be time consuming and expensive and often represents a hindrance to trade.  These 
proposals seek to prohibit the practice. 
 
Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall not impose any requirement for a consular transaction(s).in connection with the 
importation of any goods.  
Scope of Proposals
 
 Removal of any requirement for cons ularization and related documents. 
 
Removal of fees associated with consularization.   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 37 
 
 
  Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has no legislative or administrative requirement for consularization. J. BORDER
 AGENCY  COORDINATION 
J.1 Coordination of Activities and Requirements of all Border Agencies 
 
(a) Internal Agency Coordination 
(b) Cross Border Coordination 
(a) Internal Agency Coordination (also see H.1(h)) 
General Description  
 
Where several regulatory agencies are directly involved in the clearance of goods, this could result in the imposition of multiple formalities and physical inte rventions which are an impediment to trade.  
These proposals seek to achieve a one time documen tary and physical verification of consignments 
for multiple regulatory purposes by coor dination of relevant agencies.   
 
Basic Standard
 
 Border agencies should cooperate and coordinate.   
 
Scope of Proposals
24 25 
 
Standardization of import, export and transit data requirements. 
 
Coordination of agency requirements. 
 Establishment of a single location for one-tim e documentary and physical verification of 
consignments. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has in place national legislation and/or administrative arrangements which: 
 Specify standardized data and documentation requirements for importation, exportation and 
transit; 
 Provide importers and exporters with a on ce-only requirement to submit information; 
 Provide importers and exporters with a single poi nt of lodgement, whether electronic or manual; 
 Establish coordinated inspection a rrangements and site for cargo that is selected for inspection, to 
eliminate duplication and ensure that inspections  are carried out at the same time, wherever 
possible. 
 
                                                      
24 Note also H.1(h) proposals relating to single window/one time submission. 
25 Includes similar issues relating to trans it in M.3(g), M.3(i) and M.4(a) proposals. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 38 
 
 
  (b) Cross Border Coordination 
General Description  
 On land borders, traders are often faced with di fferent clearance processes and customs facilities on 
each side of the border.  These proposals seek to improve coordination betw een the border authorities 
of neighbouring countries in order to reduce the procedures required and ti me taken to clear goods 
across the frontier. 
 
Basic Standard
 
 
Members with juxtaposed customs posts shall c oordinate procedures and develop common border 
facilities, wherever possible.  
Scope of Proposals
26 
 
Coordinated procedures such as aligning worki ng hours and developing common border facilities. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has in place national legislation or  administrative arrangements which establish 
measures to regulate the functioning of coordina ted border controls including, but not limited to: 
 Alignment and coordination of  procedures and formalities; 
 Correlation of the business hours and competence of those offices; 
 Development and operation of common facilities; 
 Management system outlining the role and responsibilities of each agency; 
 Agreement and procedures to exchange information; 
 Harmonization of risk analysis, where practicable. 
 
K. RELEASE AND CLEARANCE OF GOODS 
 
K.1 Expedited/Simplified Release and Clearance of Goods 
 
The various concepts associated with expedited and simplified re lease and clearance of goods are 
implicit in Article VIII.  In particular, paragr aph 1(c) recognizes "the need for minimizing the 
incidence and complexity of import and export fo rmalities and for decreasing and simplifying import 
and export documentation requirements."  By ex pediting and simplifying release and clearance 
procedures, the efficiency of the entire import a nd export process may be increased, costs reduced and 
compliance improved.  K.1(a) Pre-arrival Processing 
 
General Description
 
 
Pre-arrival processing allows traders to submit im port documentation and othe r required information 
to customs and other relevant border agencies prior to the arrival of goods.  In cases where no further 
                                                      
26 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.4(a) proposals.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 39 
 
 
  examination is required, and other conditions are met (e.g., the duty payment is secured), goods may 
be cleared immediately upon arrival. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall make provision for the lodging an d processing of clearance data and documentation 
prior to the arrival of the goods. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Submission and processing of clearance data and documentation prior to the arrival of goods. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 The Member has in place national legislation and/ or administrative arrangements which explicitly: 
 Allow traders to submit clearance data for processing prior to the arrival of the goods; 
 Allow traders to take delivery of their goods i mmediately upon arrival in situations where all 
regulatory requirements have been met and no fu rther verification or inspection is deemed 
necessary, consistent with intern ational standards and practices. 
 
K.1(b)  Expedited Shipments 
 
General Description
 
These proposals recognize the time-sensitive nature of expedited shipments and seek to ensure 
expedited clearance arrangements for such consi gnments.  Expedited shipment provider is proposed 
as a person that maintains a high-degree of control over shipments, including tracking at every point 
during their conveyance, and maintains the capacity for the expedited shipment provider, sender and 
recipient to locate expedited shipments at any point in their conveyance and to obtain current 
information on the estimated delivery time of those shipments. 
 
Basic Standard  
A Member shall provide expedited Customs clea rance procedures for expedited shipments from 
economic operators which meet specific criteria. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
Arrangements relating to expedited shipment regard less the value and weight of the consignment, 
including:  
Separate procedures for expedited shipment s, including the time-frame of clearance; 
 Arrangements between operators and customs administrations; 
 
Pre-arrival processing
27, including electronic processing; 
 
Provision of a single manifest, preferably through electronic means; 
 
De Minimis treatment.28 
                                                      
27 See also K.1(a) proposals. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 40 
 
 
  To the extent possible, provide for re lease based on the applicable manifest.  
 
Release of express consignments prior to final de termination of duties, fees and taxes based on the 
provision of guarantee or surety. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
Member may require from expe dited shipment operators:  
• adequate infrastructure  
• prior submission of manifest  
• fees that reflect the cost of services rendered  
 
K.1(c) Risk Management/Analysis, Authorized Traders 
  
(a) Risk Management/Analysis 
(b) Authorized Traders 
(a) Risk Management/Analysis 
General Description  
 
In most countries the volume of international trade is growing so border officials have an increased 
work flow and at the same time are under increasing pressure to facilitate trade.  The best way to 
efficiently manage this situation is through the use of  risk management.  This means that a system is 
put in place to identify the risk factors of the goods  (and associated information, including the traders) 
that enter/leave/cross the country.   Goods that ar e considered high risk ar e closely examined while 
low risk goods can enter the country quickly with only a cursory look (with random in-depth 
inspections to verify that the system is working properly).  These WTO prop osals seek to ensure the 
application of risk management principles to trade-related examinations and inspections.  
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall conduct examinations and inspections  based on the application of risk management.  
 
Scope of Proposals29 
 Selection of cargo for documentary and physical ex aminations based on the application of risk 
management principles. 
 Use of harmonized risk management systems across a customs union. 
 
Specific issues for transit goods, including: 
 Treatment of transit goods adapted to the e xpected degree and nature of the hazard, and 
establishment of national procedures for particular  categories of goods (e.g., dangerous goods, 
perishables and sensitive goods); 
                                                                                                                                                                    
 
28 Shipments under a certain value attract no duties or taxes, and require no formal entry 
documentation. 
29 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.3(g) and M.3(h) proposals.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 41 
 
 
   
 Risk-based quality control, veterinary, medi cosanitary and phytosanitary inspection; 
  Risk-based requirement for goods to follow a prescribed itinerary or to be conveyed under 
customs escort surveillance; 
 
 The use of seals, including electronic seals. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has in place national legislation and/or  administrative arrangements which require the 
application of risk management principles based on relevant international standards and practices such 
as Chapter 6 of the General Annex to the WCO Revised Kyoto Convention and its associated 
Guidelines.  This includes clear evidence of: 
 The development, use and regular review  of formal risk management plans; 
 The use of formal risk analysis methodologies to determine which pers ons, consignments and 
means of transport should be examined and the extent of such examination; 
 Mechanisms and associated reco rds that provide the ability to  determine why particular 
consignments have been, or are to be, selected for specific interventions; 
 Dedicated officials responsible for regular  updates to keep risk profiles current. 
 
(b) Authorized Traders 
General Description  
 
These proposals seek to ensure the introduction of simplified import and export formalities for traders 
with an appropriate record of compliance with import and export requirements, known as "authorized 
traders". 
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall provide for simplified import, export and transit formalities for traders who 
demonstrate a high level of compliance w ith trade-related laws and regulations. 
 
Scope of Proposals30 
 
Authorized trader status to be determined on a non- discriminatory basis, using objective, transparent, 
publicly available risk-based criteria.  
Simplified import, export and transit form alities for authorized traders, including: 
 More rapid release and clearance of goods; 
 A lower incidence of physical inspections; 
 Facilitated procedures covering areas such as declaration, submission and processing, duty 
payment, documentation, inspec tion and data requirements. 
 
Uniform application of authorized trader systems and mutual recognition of authorized trader status 
across a customs union. 
                                                     
 
30 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.3(g) and M.3(h) proposals. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 42 
 
 
   
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 The Member has in place national legislation and/ or administrative arrangements which allow the 
application of simplified import, export and transit formalities for tr aders who meet specific criteria, 
providing in particular for more rapid release and cl earance of consignments and a lower incidence of 
physical inspections. 
 
K.1(d) Post-Clearance Audit 
 
General Description
 
 
These proposals seek to facilitate trade through an increased use of post-clearance audit.  Post-
clearance audit is a method of compliance mana gement, whereby a customs administration may 
release the majority of consignments at the time of their arrival and conduct an audit of selected 
traders at a later time.  Audits are normally undert aken at importers premises where auditors can 
access all relevant records, employees, etc. to determine if information provided at time of 
importation is accurate. 
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall provide for post clearance audit, whereby goods may be released on arrival, with 
compliance verification undertaken at a later time.  
Scope of Proposals
 
 
Post-clearance audit of enterprises involved directly or indirectly in the transaction of international 
trade.  
Use of regular audits.  These are audits that are performed periodically according to auditing 
programs set forth by customs focusing on business systems and routine operations and management. 
 
Use of targeted audits, based on risk management .  These are audits performed on the selected traders 
and commodities with high risks resulting from the results of risk analysis and assessment. 
 
Feeding the results of post-clearance audit b ack into the risk management process. 
 Adopting relevant internationa l standards and instruments. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has in place national legislation and/or  administrative arrangements which provide for 
and utilize post-clearance audit as an accepted elem ent of compliance management.  This includes: 
1. The use of company-focussed audits as well as transaction-based verifications; 
2. Competent audit staff; 
3. Legislation that clearly states the powers that can be exercised by those staff; 
4. The creation of a compliance database to assist in identifying areas of potential risk, in which 
audit results are recorded and analysed; 
5. Record keeping requirements for traders. 
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 43 
 
 
  K.1(e) Separating Release from Clearance Procedures 
 
General Description  
These proposals support a system whereby goods may be  released from the custody of customs before 
final payment of duties and taxes is made, or reso lution of customs matters (such as classification or 
customs valuation) is reached, utilizing guarantees  such as a sureties, bonds, or deposits, where 
necessary. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall provide for conditions under whic h goods may be released from Customs prior to 
payment of the relevant duties and taxes. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
Use of guarantees: 
 
In the form of collateral security or some other a ppropriate instrument to ensure ultimate payment of 
duties and taxes; 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has in place national legislation and administrative arrangements which specify 
conditions under which goods may be released from cu stoms control prior to payment of the relevant 
duties and taxes.  Such arrangements address the elements identified in the Scope of Proposals, 
including: 
 
Circumstances under which goods may be released prio r to payment of the relevant duties and taxes; 
 Rules governing the guarantee system, including accepta ble forms of guarantee, the amount of such 
guarantee, and terms of reimbursement of guarantees. 
 
K.1(f) Other Measures to Simplify Customs Rele ase and Clearance (*no third generation 
proposal available for this measure, but see also H.1 (b), (c), and (d))  
General Description
 
 
These proposals identify further methods of simplifyi ng customs release and clearance requirements. 
 
Basic Standard  
 A Member shall adopt other measures to simplify customs release and clearan ce, wherever possible. 
 
Scope of Proposals
 
 
Rapid release procedures such as release on submission of a simplified document, and post-release reconciliation of documentation and duties payable. 
 
Customs clearance or relevant export control at  an importer's or exporter's premises, where 
practicable. 
 
Periodic declaration and duty payment rather than on the basis of individual transactions, using post-clearance audit as necessary. TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 44 
 
 
   
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 The Member applies the simplified clearance an d release measures identified in the Scope of 
Proposals. 
 
The Member has review procedures in place that are designed to identify further ways in which 
customs release and clearance may be further simplified.  K.1(g) Establishment and Publication of  Average Release and Clearance Times 
 
General Description
 
 
These proposals seek to reduce release and clearance times by requiring members to calculate, publish, and endeavour to continuously reduce the average times for release and clearance of goods. 
 
Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall establish and publish average release and clearance times, and shall seek to 
progressively reduce the time taken to release and clear goods.  
Scope of Proposals
31 
 Measurement and publication of average times for the release and clearance of goods: 
 On a periodic basis; 
 In a consistent manner; 
 Based on common standard such as the WCO Time Release Study. 
 Progressive reduction of average release and clearance times. 
 
Explanations to traders of the reasons for significant delays, except where it would impede the pursuance of legitimate policy objectives. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
The Member has in place arrangements which pr ovide for the periodic measurement of average 
clearance and release times for imported and e xported goods, in accordance with the Scope of 
Proposals.  
The Member publishes the results of su ch measurement on a periodic basis. 
 
                                                     
 
31 Includes similar issues relating to transit in M.3(a) proposals.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 45 
 
 
  L. TARIFF CLASSIFICATION 
 
L.1 Objective Criteria for Tariff Classification 
 General Description
 
 
These proposals seek to provide an objective approach to tariff classification, to improve transparency 
and predictability for traders to ensure that classifi cations are not arbitrary or  unjustifiable and do not 
constitute a disguised restriction on international trade.   
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall apply objective criteria for tariff classification.    
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Tariff classification.  
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 The Member has in place national legislation and administrative arrangements which are based upon 
the provisions of the WCO Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding 
System (WCO HS Convention).  M. MATTERS RELATING TO GOODS TRANSIT  
Effective transit procedures are cr itical for traders, particularly in land-locked countries.  GATT 
Article V sets out rules on freedom of transit subject to formalities and on the basis of most-favored-nation treatment.  Paragraph 3 requires that traffic in  transit coming to or from the territories of other 
Members shall not be subject to unnecessary delays or  restriction, and shall be exempt from customs 
duties except for charges to cover the cost of services rendered.   
 M.1 Non-Discrimination and Policy Objectives 
M.1(a) Strengthened Non-discrimination 
 
General Description
 
 The objective of these proposals is to strengthen th e principle of non-discrimination, in order to 
prevent the application of trade laws that limit th e free transit of goods and means of transport among 
Members.  
Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall accord non-discriminatory, most-favored-nation treatment and national treatment to 
traffic in transit to or from the territory of any ot her Member with respect to all charges, regulations 
and formalities. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
All laws, regulations, requirements, procedures, fees and charges on or in connection with transit, in 
relation to:  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 46 
 
 
   Internal passage of traffic in tran sit across the territory of a Member; 
 Traffic in transit to or from the territory of any other Member; 
 Products which have been in transit th rough the territory of any other Member; 
 Nationality of means of transport. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has in place national legislation and administrative arrangements which: 
 Expressly provide for the principles of non-discrimination, most-favoured-nation treatment and 
national treatment to traffic in transit to or from the territory of any other Member with respect to 
all charges, regulations and formalities; 
 
 Apply the principles of risk management to the identification of goods for specific interventions 
in respect of goods in transit, and specifically ex clude such identification on the basis of origin 
and/or mode of transportation alone. 
 
M.1(b) Legitimate Policy Objectives 
 
These proposals recognize that the legitimate public policy goals set out in GATT Articles XX and 
XXI should not be compromised in any way.  These Articles relate to such issues as national security, 
health, safety and the environment.    
 
They also recognise the right of a Member to require th at traffic in transit through its territory must be 
entered at the proper customs house. 
 
M.2 Disciplines on Fees and Charges 
 M.2(a) Publication of Fees and Charges (and Prohibition of Unpublished Ones – this part no 3
rd 
generation text).  
 
These matters are dealt with under the following proposals:  
G.1(b) – Publication/notification of fees/charges. 
 
M.2(b) Periodic Review of Fees and Charges 
 These matters are dealt with under the following proposals: 
 
G.1(d) – Periodic review of fees/charges. 
 
M.2(c) More effective Disciplines on Charges for Transit – Reduction/Simplification 
 These matters are dealt with under the following proposals:  
G.1(a) – Specific parameters for fees/charges;   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 47 
 
 
  M.2(d) Periodic Exchange between Neighbouring Authorities (no third generation proposal for 
this measure) 
 
General Description  
 
These proposals seek to establish regular communicat ion between neighbouring authorities in relation 
to new and modified transit fees and char ges prior to their entering into force. 
 Basic Standard
 
 
A Member shall consult with neighbouring aut horities on any new or modified fees and charges 
imposed in connection with transit, prior to their entering into force. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
Consultation mechanisms on proposals to introduce new, or amend existing fees and charges relating 
to transit.  
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 The Member conducts regular, form al consultations with neighbouring authorities on proposed new or 
amended transit fees and charges. 
 
M.3 Disciplines on Transit Formalities and Documentation Requirements 
 
M.3(a) Publication 
 These matters are dealt with under the following proposals: 
 
A.1 – Publication and notification of trad e regulations and of penalty provisions; 
 A.3 – Notification of Trade Regulations; 
 
B.1 – Interval between publication and entry into force;  
K.1(g) – Establishment and publication of average release and clearance times. 
 
M.3(b) Periodic Review 
 These matters are dealt with under the following proposals: 
 
H.1(b) – Periodic review of formalities and requirements. 
 
M.3(c) Reduction/Simplification 
 
General Description
 
 
Fast efficient transit crossings can have a big pos itive impact on trade, especially for land locked 
countries.   These proposals seek to ensure that tran sit-related formalities are no more administratively 
burdensome or trade restrictive than necessary to achieve legitimate policy objectives and that, where 
possible, transit trade be given special conditions to ensure its facilitation.  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 48 
 
 
  Basic Standard  
 
Traffic in transit shall not be subject to any unn ecessary delays or restrictions and shall be granted 
expedited and simplified treatment at border crossing points.     
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
Border crossing points include: sea, fluvial (ri ver) and airports or inland terminals.   
 
Physically separate transit lanes shall be made available for traffic in transit, where possible. 
 Transit formalities and docum entation requirements shall: 
• be reasonable having regard to the conditions of transit; 
 
• applied uniformly; 
 
• not be more trade restrictive than necessary to  achieve the legitimate public policy objective 
pursued.   
 
For traffic in transit, Members shall provide for: 
 
 -The processing of transit documents and da ta prior to the arrival of the transiting 
consignment;  
 
 -The use by traders of commercially availabl e information, documents and data wherever 
possible, including as part of transit declarations;  
 
 -The progressive establishment of a single window for traffic in transit.  
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 The Member has in place legislative and/or administ rative arrangements to provide for the procedures 
outlined in the Scope of Proposals. 
 Use of existing commercial information to satis fy government requirements were practicable. 
 
Where possible the Member has in place designated f acilities, including lanes, for traffic in transit. 
 M.3(d) Harmonization/Standardization  
These matters are dealt with under the following proposals: 
 H.1(d) – Use of international standards; 
 
H.1(f) – Acceptance of commercially available information and copies. 
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 49 
 
 
  M.3(e) Promotion of Regional Transit Agreements or Arrangements 
 General Description
 
 
These proposals seek to encourage Members to coopera te on a regional basis to promote bilateral and 
regional transit agreements.   
 
Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall promote bilateral and regional transit agreements or arrangements which are 
consistent with all other commitments on Trade F acilitation, with a view to reducing trade barriers. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 Promotion of bilateral and regional tr ansit agreements or arrangements. 
 
Development of WTO guidelines on regional transit agreements and arrangements. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 The Member is actively involved in promoting bilateral and regional transit agreements or 
arrangements and contributing to the de velopment of relevant WTO guidelines. 
 
M.3(f) Simplified and Preferential  Clearance for Certain Goods 
 These proposals promote the use of risk management  techniques to enable agencies to concentrate 
inspection and monitoring activities on high-risk goods in transit, and to facilitate the movement of 
low-risk goods.  As such, they are dealt with u nder K.1(c) proposals – Risk management/analysis, 
authorized traders. 
 
M.3(g) Limitation of Inspections and Controls 
 
These matters are dealt with under the following proposals: 
 J.1 – Coordination of activities and requirements of all border agencies; 
 
K.1(c) – Risk management/analysis, authorized traders.  M.3(h) Sealing (*no 3
rd generation proposal available for this measure) 
 
M.3(i) Cooperation and Coordination on Document Requirements 
 These matters are dealt with under the following proposals:  
J.1 –  Coordination of activities and requirements of all border agencies.  M.3(j) Monitoring  
General Description
 
 
Recognizing the importance of efficient implementati on of transit agreements or arrangements, these 
proposals seek to ensure the actual implementation of these transit commitments. 
 TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 50 
 
 
  Basic Standard  
 
A Member shall ensure that any regional trans it agreement or arrangement incorporates measures 
relating to the monitoring of transit. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
Incorporation of monitoring arrangements in region al transit agreements or arrangements that may 
include: 
 
The appointment of national transit coordinators;  
Public private partnerships to ma nage and monitor the arrangement. 
 Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
Monitoring arrangements form part of regional tr ansit agreements or arrangements to which the 
Member is a party, which may include elements recommended in the Scope of Proposals, as 
appropriate. 
 
M.3(k) Bonded Transport Regime and Guarantees/International, Regional or National Customs 
Guarantee System 
 
General Description  
 
These proposals seek to establish an internationally , regionally or nationally valid guarantee system 
for goods transit.  The objective of such a system is to avoid the need to impose provisional taxation 
while at the same time safeguarding revenue  in case of inland diversion of the goods. 
 
Basic Standard  
 A Member shall allow the transit of goods through its territory without payment of customs duties or 
other charges, subject to the provision of an appropriate guarantee. 
 Scope of Proposals
 
 
Internationally, regionally or nationally valid  guarantee system for goods transit, which: 
 
Represents a single guarantee in the country or all the transit countries; 
 Is renewable for subsequent consignments; 
 
Has reasonable limits, having regard to the conditi ons of transit, the nature and value of the 
consignment in question and the potential revenue liability; 
 Is released promptly and in full on  completion of the transit operation; 
 
Any fees should reflect the cost of services rendered. 
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
 Page 51 
 
 
  Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
The Member has in place national legislation and/or administrative arrangements that allow the transit 
of goods through its territory without payment of customs duties or other charges, subject to the 
provision of an appropriate guarantee. 
 
When available, the Member has a dopted an internationally or regionally valid guarantee system that 
incorporates the elements identif ied in the Scope of Proposals. 
 M.4 Improved Coordination and Cooperation  M.4(a) Amongst Authorities 
 These matters are dealt with under the following proposals: 
 
J.1 – Coordination of activities and requirement s of all border agencies; one-stop shop and 
coordination of juxtaposed customs offices.  M.4(b) Between Authorities and the Private Sector  
These matters are dealt with under the following proposals:  
C.1 – Prior consultation and commenting on new or amended rules.  M.5 Operationalization and Clarification of Terms  
These proposals seek WTO clarification of a num ber of terms and operational aspects of goods 
transit.  M.6 Quota-Free Transit Regime  
General Description
 
 
Road transport, which is the principal mode of freight  transport in transit, is widely subject to quotas 
and permits, which often generate limitations in transit traffic.   Problems concerning transit traffic 
quotas and permits are often addressed through bilatera l agreements, however, this is not an effective 
solution since most transit movements involve sever al countries.  This proposal would require the 
elimination of quotas at a multilateral level.  Basic Standard
 
 
Members shall eliminate barriers to transit trans port of goods and shall establish a quota-free transit 
regime in road transportation. 
 
Scope of Proposals  
 
Charges for transit transport shall be commensurat e with the cost of the services rendered and be 
equally applied for national and foreign transit transporters; 
 
Foreign transporters should be ch arged equally irrespective of country of origin or destination. 
 TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 52 
 
 
  Requirements to meet the Basic Standard  
 
Member has in place legislation that shall enhance trad e in transit as set out in the Basic Standard and 
the Scope of Proposals. 
 
Cooperation Mechanism For Custom Compliance  
 General Description
 
 
Under these proposals a Member would be re quired, upon request from another Customs 
administration, to provide inform ation and documents on matters such  as HS classification, full and 
accurate description, quantity, country of origin  and valuation of goods for specific imports or 
exports.    This information would be used in cases where Customs doubts the truth or accuracy of 
import information and seeks verification by looking at the information provided to the country of 
export (or vice versa).  This prac tice is currently conduced under bi-l ateral agreements but under these 
proposals would be required by all countries at a multilateral level.  
 
Basic Standard  
Members shall, upon request, exchange informa tion and documents concerning specific import or 
export transactions.  
 
Scope of Proposals  
 Administrative procedures for the timely provi sion of the appropriate information and/or 
documentation that is certified as true copies. 
 
Protection of the confidentiality of the information provided. 
 Notification to WTO of the appropriate centralized  agency to administer information exchange. 
 
Requests made in one of the three official WTO la nguages or in a language mutually acceptable to the 
requesting and the requested Member. 
 
Requirements to meet the Basic Standard
 
 
The Member has in place legislation and administ rative arrangements that allow the provision of 
information and documents as identified in the scope of proposals.  
Establishment of an administrative body responsible for information exchange. 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 53ANNEX A: ASSESSMENT TOOL  
A.1  PUBLICATION AND NOTIFICATION OF TRADE REGULATIONS AND OF PENALTY PROVISIONS;  
M.3(a)    PUBLICATION FOR TRANSIT 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall ensure that all relevant laws, regulations, administrative guidelines, j udicial decisions and administrative rul ings 
having general application are made re adily available through an official  source to any interested person. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __ 
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
   
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:         Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 54 
A.2(a)  INTERNET PUBLICATION OF THE ELEMENTS SET OUT IN ARTICLE X OF GATT 1994; A.2(b)  INTERNET PUBLICATION 
OF SPECIFIED INFORMATION SETTING FORTH THE PROCEDURAL SEQUENCE AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS FOR 
IMPORTING GOODS INTO A MEMBER'S TERRITORY  
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall publish on an official internet s ite all trade related legislation and procedures. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 55A.3  NOTIFICATION OF TRADE REGULATIONS;  M.3(a)  NOTIFICATION OF TRADE REGULATIONS FOR TRANSIT 
 
Basic Standard: When introducing or amending trade regulations that may have a significant effect on the trade of other Members, a Member shall  
notify interested parties and the WTO Secretariat of the propo sed introduction or amendment at the earliest possible stage prio r to 
finalizing the proposed measures. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __    
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 56 
A.4  ESTABLISHMENT OF ENQUIRY POINTS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall establish national an enquiry point or points or be part of a regional enquiry point which are responsible for 
providing or for facilitating access to trade -related information or documents to interested parties on a non-discriminatory ba sis. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
   
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 57B.1  INTERVAL BETWEEN PUBLICAT ION AND ENTRY INTO FORCE 
M.3(a)   INTERVAL BETWEEN PUBLICATION AND ENTRY INTO FORCE FOR TRANSIT 
 Basic Standard: A Member shall ensure that, where practicable, information relati ng to proposed new and amended rules of general application is  
made available to interested persons in advance of their implementation. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 58 
C.1  PRIOR CONSULTATION AND COMMENTING ON NEW AND AMENDED RULES;   M.4 IMPROVED COORDINATION  
  AND COOPERATION BETWEEN AUTHORITIES AND PRIVATE SECTOR ON TRANSIT; 
C.2  INFORMATION ON POLICY OBJECTIVES SOUGHT 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall introduce and maintain c onsultative mechanisms to seek and take acc ount of comments from interested persons 
on proposals to introduce new, or amend existing tr ade-related rules prior to their implementation. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __      
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 59D.1  PROVISION OF ADVANCE RULINGS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall issue legally binding rulings in a timely manner, a nd in advance of the relevant trade transaction, at the reque st of 
an interested person who has provided the Member with all necessary information. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __    
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
   
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 60 
 
E.1  RIGHT OF APPEAL 
 Basic Standard: A Member shall provide a legal right of appeal  in customs and other trade-related matters. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:           Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
   
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 61E.2  RELEASE OF GOODS IN EVENT OF APPEAL 
 
Basic Standard: Where a disputed decision is the subject of an appeal, a Member  shall generally allow goods the subject of the decision to be 
released and, where practicable, hold payment of duties and other taxes in abeyance pending resolution of the appeal, upon 
provision of a guarantee where necessary. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 62 
E.3  APPEAL MECHANISMS IN A CUSTOMS UNION 
 
Basic Standard: Where a disputed decision relating to the importation of goods into  a customs union is the subject of an appeal, a Member shall  
agree to have the matter heard and decided at the customs union level. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:       Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 63F.1  UNIFORM ADMINISTRATION OF TRADE REGULATIONS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall administer trade regulations in a uniform and impartial manner. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 64 
F.2(a)  ESTABLISHMENT OF A CODE OF CONDUCT 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall establish, maintain and enforce a code of conduct which addresses the rights and obligations of government 
officials. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:          Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 65F.2(b)  COMPUTERIZED SYSTEM TO REDUCE/ELIMINATE DISCRETION 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall use information technology to reduce officer discretion, where practicable. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 66 
F.2(c)  SYSTEM OF PENALTIES 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall incorporate penalty provisions in its customs legislation. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 67F.3  IMPORT ALERTS/RAPID ALERTS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall not operate an import alert/rapid alert syst em in a way that creates an unnecessary barrier to trade. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 68 
F.4  DETENTION 
 
Basic Standard: When goods are detained for inspection by a competent authority,  a Member shall provide the importer or their authorized agent 
with information about the detention in a timely manner. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 69F.5  TEST PROCEDURES 
 
Basic Standard: When samples of goods are tested by compet ent authorities for the purpose of ensuring the appropriate application of national 
legislation, a Member shall provide importers, exporters or thei r or their authorized agents with the right to a second confirm atory 
test. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 70 
G.1(a)  SPECIFIC PARAMETERS FOR FEES/CHARGES; G.1(c) PROHIBITION OF COLLECTION OF UNPUBLISHED FEES  
  AND CHARGES;  M.2(a)  PROHIBITION OF COLLECTION OF UNPUBLISHED FEES AND CHARGES FOR TRANSIT (no  
  3rd generation);  M.2(c)  MORE EFFECTIVE DISCIPLINES ON CHARGES FOR TRANSIT 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall ensure that fees and charges do not exceed the a pproximate costs of services rendered and are in direct connecti on 
with a specific importation, exportation or transit formality. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:       Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 71G.1(b)  PUBLICATION/NOTIFICATION OF FEES/CHARGES 
 
M.2(a)  PUBLICATION OF FEES AND CHARGES FOR TRANSIT  
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall publish information on fees and charges in a ti mely manner prior to their implementation or amendment. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 72 
G.1(d)  PERIODIC REVIEW OF FEES/CHARGES 
 
M.2(b)   PERIODIC REVIEW OF FEES AND CHARGES FOR TRANSIT 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall review its trade-related fees and charges periodically to ensure compliance with WTO commitments. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 73G.1(e)  AUTOMATED PAYMENT 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall permit automated payment of duties and other trad e-related fees and charges [where agencies have the necessary 
facilities]. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 74 
H.1(a)  NON-DISCRIMINATION 
 
 Basic Standard: A Member shall ensure that the design, application and effect  of import and export practices and procedures do not discriminate  
against goods on the basis of their origin and/or mode of transportation. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 75H.1(b)  PERIODIC REVIEW OF FORMALITIES AND REQUIREMENTS; H.1(c)   REDUCTION/LIMITATION OF  
  FORMALITIES/PROCEDURES AND DATA/DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS 
M.3(b)   PERIODIC REVIEW FOR TRANSIT 
 
Basic Standard: A Member, with input from the private sector, shall periodically  review its import and export fo rmalities and requirements to 
simplify and reduce and to ensure that they are appropriate a nd are not  maintained once the circumstances or objectives giving  
rise to their adoption no longer exist. 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 76 
H.1(d)  USE OF INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS 
M.3(d)   HARMONIZATION/STANDARDIZATION FOR TRAN SIT (Use of international standards for transit) 
 Basic Standard: A Member shall use relevant international standards as the basis for their import, export and transit procedures or with intern al  
   transfer of payments  
COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
   
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 77H.1(e)  UNIFORM CUSTOMS CODE 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall introduce a uniform customs code or aligned cust oms legislation (yet to be determined); and shall introduce a 
single import and export declaration, administrative message or data set. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 78 
H.1(f)  ACCEPTANCE OF COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE INFORMATION AND OF COPIES 
M.3(d)   HARMONIZATION/STANDARDIZATION FOR TRANSIT (Acceptance of commercia lly available information and copies for 
 transit) 
 
Basic Standard: For the purposes of facilitating trade, a Member shall use relevant  information already available in the context of commercial 
transactions, and copies of relevant  documents, wherever practicable. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 79H.1(g)  AUTOMATION 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall use information technology and electronic commer ce to automate its import and export procedures [to the greatest  
extent possible]. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 80 
H.1(h)  SINGLE WINDOW/ONE-TIME SUBMISSION 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall establish a system that allows traders to su bmit import and export documentation and data (including electronic 
versions of them) once only, to a single agency.  
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 81H.1(i)  ELIMINATION OF PRE-SHIPMENT INSPECTION 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall not have any legislative or administrative require ment for the use of pre-shipment inspections or their equivale nt. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 82 
H.1(j)  PHASING OUT MANDATO RY USE OF CUSTOMS BROKERS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall not mandate the use of customs brokers.  If Cust oms brokers are subject to licensing, such licensing rules shall  be 
transparent, non-discriminatory and proportionate. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 83H.1(k)  SAME BORDER PROCEDURES WITHIN A CUSTOM S UNION; H.1(m) UNIFORM FORMS AND DOCUMENTATION  
  REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO IMPORT CLEARANCE WITHIN A CUSTOMS UNION 
 Basic Standard: Members of a customs union shall adopt the same border pro cedures and associated standards and  uniform forms and   
   documentation requirements for the clearance of goods.  COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:          Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 84 
H.1(l)  TESTING METHODS BASED ON SPECIFIC PRODUCT FEATURES 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall use testing methods that are based on specific product features and th e physical state of the product at the poi nt of 
consumption. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:         Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 85  
H.1(n)  OPTION TO RETURN REJECTED GOODS TO THE EXPORTER 
 Basic Standard: A Member shall provide for food consignments to be returned to  the exporter in cases where they are rejected by the importer du e 
to their failure to meet commercial standards. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 86 
I.1 PROHIBITION OF CONSULAR TRANSACTION REQUIREMENT 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall not impose any requirement for a consular tr ansaction(s).in connection with the importation of any goods. 
 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 87J.1 COORDINATION OF ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS OF ALL BORDER AGENCIES – a. Internal Agency Coordination  
 M.3(g) LIMITATION OF INSPECTIONS/CONTROLS FOR TR ANSIT; M.3(i) COOPERATION/COORDINATION ON DOCUMENT 
REQUIREMENTS FOR TRANSIT;  M.4 IMPROVED COORDINATION AND COOPERATION: M.4(a) AMONGST 
AUTHORITIES; M.4(b) BETWEEN AUTHORITIES AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR 
Basic Standard: Border agencies should cooperate and coordinate.   
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __  
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
  
   
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 88 
J.1  COORDINATION OF ACTIVITIES /REQUIREMENTS OF ALL BORDER AGENCIES - b.  Cross Border Coordination  
M. 4(a)  IMPROVED COORDINATION AND COOPERATION AMONGST AUTHORITIES FOR TRANSIT 
 Basic Standard: Members with juxtaposed customs posts shall coordinate pro cedures and develop common border facilities, wherever possible. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:         Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
   
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 89K.1(a)  PRE-ARRIVAL PROCESSING 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall make provision for the lodging and processing of cl earance data and documentation prior to the arrival of the 
goods. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 90 
K.1(b)  EXPEDITED SHIPMENTS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall provide expedited clearance procedures for expe dited shipments from economic operators which meet specific  
   criteria.  COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:         Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 91K.1(c)  RISK MANAGEMENT/ANALYSIS (separate chart for authorized traders follows) 
 
M.3(g)   LIMITATION OF INSPECTIONS AND CONTROLS FOR TRANSIT; M.3(h) USE OF SEALS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall conduct examinations and inspections  based on the application of risk management. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:       Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 92 
K.1(c)  AUTHORIZED TRADERS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall provide for simplified import, export and trans it formalities for traders who demonstrate a high level of   
   compliance with trade-related laws and regulations. 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __       
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 93K.1(d) POST-CLEARANCE AUDIT 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall provide for post clearance audit, whereby good s may be released on arrival, with compliance verification 
undertaken at a later time. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 94 
K.1(e) SEPARATING RELEASE FROM CLEARANCE PROCEDURES 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall provide for conditions under which goods may be released from Customs prior to payment of the relevant duties 
and taxes. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
   
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 95K.1(f) OTHER MEASURES TO SIMPLIFY CUSTOMS RELEASE AND CLEARANCE 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall adopt other measures to simplify customs release and clearan ce, wherever possible. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 96 
K.1(g)  ESTABLISHMENT AND PUBLICATION OF AVERAGE RELEASE AND CLEARANCE TIMES 
M.3(a)  ESTABLISHMENT AND PUBLICATION OF AVERAGE RELEASE AND CLEARANCE TIMES FOR TRANSIT 
 Basic Standard: A Member shall establish and publish average release and clearance times, and shall seek to progressively reduce the time taken  to 
release and clear goods. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 97L.1 OBJECTIVE CRITERIA FOR TARIFF CLASSIFICATION 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall adopt the Convention on the Harmonized Co mmodity Description and Coding System (HS Convention). 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 98 
M.1(a)  STRENGTHENED NON-DISCRIMINATION 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall accord non-discriminatory, most-favored-nation treat ment and national treatment to traffic in transit to or from  the 
territory of any other Member with respect to all charges, regulations and formalities. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 99M.2(d)  PERIODIC EXCHANGE BETWEEN NEIGHBORING AUTHORITIES 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall consult with neighbouring authorities on any ne w or modified fees and charges imposed in connection with 
transit, prior to their entering into force. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
   
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 100 
M.3(c)   REDUCTION/SIMPLIFICATION 
Basic Standard : Traffic in transit shall not be subject to any unnecessary delays  or restrictions and shall be  granted expedited and simplifi ed  
   treatment at border crossing points.     
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
  
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 101M.3(e)  PROMOTION OF REGIONAL TR ANSIT AGREEMENTS OR ARRANGEMENTS 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall promote bilateral and regional transit agreem ents or arrangements which ar e consistent with all other 
commitments on Trade Facilitation, with a view to reducing trade barriers. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 102 
M.3(j)  MONITORING 
 
Basic Standard: A Member shall ensure that any regional transit agreement or  arrangement incorporates measures relating to the monitoring of 
transit. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 103M.3(k)  BONDED TRANSPORT REGIME AND GUARANTEES/I NTERNATIONAL, REGIONAL OR NATIONAL CUSTOMS   
  GUARANTEE SYSTEM 
 Basic Standard: A Member shall allow the transit of goods through its territory without payment of customs duties or other charges, subject to the 
provision of an appropriate guarantee. 
 COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 104 
M.6   QUOTA-FREE TRANSIT REGIME 
 
Basic Standard:  Members shall eliminate barriers to transit transport of goods and shall establish a quota-free transit regime in road  
    transportation. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __         
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
  
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 105 
COOPERATION MECHANISM FOR CUSTOMS COMPLIANCE  
 
Basic Standard: Members shall, upon request, exchange information and do cuments concerning specific import or export transactions.  
 
COMPLY: Yes:        No:        Partially:        Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:        Low:        None: __        
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:     
   Medium:        Low:        None:        Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :    
 
 
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :     
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
   
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 106 
ANNEX B: EXAMPLE ASSESSMENT  
 
Illustrative Example:  D.1 Provision of Advance Rulings  
 
D.1  PROVISION OF ADVANCE RULINGS 
 Basic Standard: A Member shall issue legally binding rulings in a timely manner, a nd in advance of the relevant trade transaction, at the reque st of 
an interested person who has provided the Member with all necessary information. 
 
COMPLY: Yes:     
   No:        Partially:  X     Not applicable:        National Priority:  High:        Medium:   X    Low:        None: _       
 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
1) No legally binding advance rulings provisions 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Resistance (Customs officers and 
private sector traders think that they 
benefit from current situation. Lack of 
awareness on benefits of advance 
rulings.) 
 
Lack of legislation, and guidelines  
 
 
Lack of trained staff and separate 
unit/department for advance ruling 
 
 
 
  
Consultation with stakeholders:  
Organise meetings with relevant 
stakeholders to discuss the issue  
 Change Management: Change of 
Attitudes, way of communications:  
Organising of awareness raising 
workshops and briefings 
 
Drafting and dissemination of brief 
information notes. Conduct a study on 
economic benefits of advance ruling 
provisions for importers and exporters  
 
Awareness programs/sensitization for  
 
 
 
 
 
Advise on change management 
 
 
 
Study for fact/finding mission for best 
practices 
 
 
 
  
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 107Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lack of legislation, and guidelines 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lack of trained staff and separate 
unit/department for advance ruling 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Customs officers  
 
Awareness programs/sensitization  for 
traders 
 
 
 
Prepare, draft and enact national : 
Preparation of draft legislation and 
amendments or drafting of administrative 
guidelines 
 
Organise meetings with relevant 
stakeholders to discuss the issue 
 
 
Change management: Setting up clear 
organizational structure and 
administrative functions 
 
Training of newly hired staff on advance 
ruling procedures and classification 
 
Setting up of a "advance ruling unit" 
with permanent staff inside Customs. 
 
Revise organisation structure, identify 
members of the unit and set modus 
operandi  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Study for fact/finding mission for best 
practices 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Funding for Training of Trainers 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Training of  top management (9 officers) 
 
 
 
 
  
  TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1 
Page 108 
Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
 
 
2) Informal classification advice is 
provided but lack of consistency. The 
decisions are not recognized by other 
officers  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
3) No appeal procedure provisions   
 
 
No enforcement and monitoring 
compliance, no administrative 
guidelines 
 
 
 
Lack of adequate office equipment, 
communication with border posts, and 
trained staff 
 
 
 
 
 
Lack of precise knowledge on 
classification 
 
 
No legislation, no guidelines 
 
Enforcement of new legislation    
 
Enacting and enforcement of legislation 
on advance ruling and operating admin. 
procedures 
 
Preparation of administrative    
guidelines 
Install necessary IT equipment for 
the archiving and issu ance of requests  
 
Ensure communication with border posts 
through telephone, fax or internet 
 
 
 
Training of staff on HS 
 
 
 
Training for Advance Ruling Unit on 
legislative and administrative 
requirements 
  
 
 
Training of  top management (9 officers) 
 
Local action for training  of officers (middle  
       level) (135 officers) 
 
 
Funding 
Training of officers (see above) and use of 
IT equipment 
 
 
 
 
 
Training : see similar action under 1   
   TN/TF/W/143/Rev.1
 Page 109Actions needed to meet basic standard (Consider needs in legal framework, 
administrative policy, human resources, training, equipment, organization, change 
management.  If possible include estimated costs and/or implementation times.)  Current situation relative to the Basic 
Standard. Describe in detail. Barriers to meeting Basic Standard  
What can be done locally to address 
barriers? (Specify in detail) Is Technical Assistance or Capacity 
Building support needed? If yes, specify 
in detail. 
 
Priority for Technical Assistance:  High:        Medium:  X     Low:        None:         Comments :     
 
Lead agency or organization and other stakeholders that wo uld be responsible for implementation of this measure :   Ministry of Customs- Lead 
agency.  Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Trade, Chamber of Commerce, Private Sector, Ministry of Justice, Freight Forwarders a nd Brokers 
  
Stakeholders not participating in assessment of this measure(s) that should be consulted :    private sector 
 
 
Issues to note (any comments or re commendations for negotiators, etc.) :    
Provisions for advance ruling have been drafted in the proposed ne w Customs Code but this has not been before the Parliament ye t.  Scheduled for the second 
half of this year. 
 
 
 
__________