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Source: The post is based on the article “WCO-IAPH guidelines for customs, ports released” published in “Business Standard” on 3rd November 2023
Why in the News?
The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) released the first ever Guidelines on Cooperation between Customs and Port Authorities.
What is the World Customs Organization(WCO)?
| Specification | Details |
| Type | An intergovernmental organization. |
| Established in | 1952 |
| Aim | To enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of Customs administrations. |
| Main Functions | Developing standards for customs procedures, capacity building of its members and promoting cooperation between the customs administrations of its members. |
| Members | 185 Customs administrations that collectively process approximately 98% of world trade |
| Headquarters | Brussels, Belgium |
| Significance | It is the only international organization with competence in Customs matters. |
What is the International Association of Ports and Harbors(IAPH)?
| Aspects | Details |
| Formed in | 1955 |
| Purpose | It is a global trade association for seaports worldwide. |
| Focus Areas | Climate and energy,risk and resilience of port services and guiding the ports in digitalization. |
| Headquarters | Tokyo,Japan |
What are the key recommendations given by WCO-IAPH on cooperation between Customs and Port Authorities?
1.National port community Council(NPCC): Institutionalize cooperation between customs and port authorities through establishment of a national port community council(NPCC)
2.Data Collaboration: Emphasizes sharing data between customs and port authorities.
3.Security Programs Alignment: Suggests aligning security programs like the authorized economic operator and the international ship and port facility security program to enhance security measures.
4.Shared Review using Emerging Technologies: Proposes utilizing emerging technologies for joint review and assessment to enhance operations and security in the port and customs domain.
What is the significance of these guidelines for India?
According to the National Time Release Study conducted by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, even after grant of ‘out of charge’ order by the customs for the imported goods, it takes 1) 29 hours for the ‘direct port delivery’ cargo to go out of the port area 2) 69 hours for the cargo to leave the container freight stations and 3) 96 hours for the cargo to exit the inland container depots.
Hence, the customs and the port authorities can benefit by studying the WCO-IAPH guidelines and finding ways to cooperate better with each other.
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