Upholding interconnectivity and interoperability of digital solutions in a fragmented world (WCO)

Arguments

The need for legislation to catch up with digitalization

Supporting facts:

• Digitalization evolution is quick

• Legislation update needs to be faster

Topics: Digitalization, Legislation, Legal Framework

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Report

In the discussion, a neutral argument was put forward emphasizing the urgent need for legislation to keep pace with the rapid evolution of digitalization. It is stressed that the speed at which digitalization is advancing requires legislation to adapt and update promptly.

Thus, there is a clear demand for faster legislation updates to effectively govern the constantly changing digital landscape and ensure that laws and regulations remain relevant and effective in addressing the challenges and opportunities brought about by digital transformation. Additionally, the discussion highlights the significance of integrating the eFITO solution with the WTO data model to support SDGs related to zero hunger and industry innovation.

The eFITO solution, which facilitates the exchange of information on plant protection products, should be seamlessly integrated with the WTO data model, serving as a reference framework for agricultural information exchange. This integration would greatly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the eFITO solution in achieving the targets set by the SDGs.

The argument is supported by the establishment of an eFITO hub by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), serving as a central platform for global sharing of electronic phytosanitary certificates. This initiative showcases a commitment to leveraging digital technologies in the agricultural sector.

However, it should be noted that efforts are still underway by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOA) to develop guidance on integrating digital technologies in agriculture, indicating ongoing work in this area. The overall sentiment of the argument remains neutral, reflecting an unbiased and objective tone in discussing the need for legislative updates to keep up with digitalization.

The discussion sheds light on the potential benefits that can be derived from integrating the eFITO solution with the WTO data model to support the SDGs. This analysis offers valuable insights into the current challenges and opportunities in regulating digital technologies in various sectors, particularly in agriculture and industry.

Arguments

Closing the gaps in the digitalization of cross-border regulatory procedures

Supporting facts:

• WCO continuously cooperates with international standard-setting organizations

• Codex Alimentarius is for safe food for everyone and everywhere

• IPPC, Codex Alimentarius and WOA have developed e-certification solutions

Topics: WCO data model, Codex Generic Model official certificate, E-certification

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Single window for facilitating exchange of electronic health certificates

Supporting facts:

• Exchange of certificates in an international environment can be facilitated by a single window environment

• Single window aids in border handling procedures and international level exchanges

Topics: Single window environment, Interconnectivity, Codex-derived information package, Electronic health certificates

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The exchange of SPS data poses several benefits and challenges

Supporting facts:

• The speaker has been working in this field since starting his career in the Rotterdam harbor, participating in joint operations between customs and competent authorities

Topics: Digitalization, SPS data, Data exchange

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Codex provides guidance and showcases practicality through collaborations with WTO

Supporting facts:

• Codex aims to introduce guidance and semantics rather than focusing on technology.

• Just like how customs uses its data model, IPPC could consider this technology-neutral approach.

Topics: Codex, WTO, guidance

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eFITO solution and WTO data model could possibly be integrated in the future

Supporting facts:

• eFITO solution is a hub linking with a generic national system, but you can also connect single windows with the hub.

• The eFITO solution could potentially serve as a supplemental tool in the process.

Topics: eFITO solution, WTO data model, integration

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Report

The analysis focuses on the importance of aligning customs data models and international guidelines to ensure efficient cross-border regulatory procedures. It highlights a positive sentiment towards closing the gaps in the digitalisation of these procedures and emphasizes the need to facilitate the exchange of electronic health certificates through a single-window environment.

The study reveals that a single-window approach streamlines border handling procedures and enables international level exchanges. It emphasizes the crucial role of collaboration between customs and competent authorities in achieving seamless data exchange. Sadly, there is a negative sentiment towards the lack of cooperation at the national level, which could hinder data exchange initiatives.

To overcome this challenge, the study suggests implementing a change for the successful implementation of a single-window environment. Information received about veterinary or food safety certificates should be shared with both customs and competent authorities to ensure a well-coordinated process.

The Codex, an international body responsible for setting food safety and quality standards, is highlighted for providing guidance and practicality through collaborations with the World Trade Organization (WTO). The adoption of a technology-neutral approach by the Codex could also benefit the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) in developing a data model that aligns with international guidelines while remaining adaptable to changing technologies.

Furthermore, the study explores the potential integration of the eFITO solution and the WTO data model. The eFITO solution, a hub linking with a generic national system, shows promise in connecting single windows with the hub. Integrating the eFITO solution and the WTO data model could serve as a supplementary tool in the cross-border regulatory process.

Overall, the analysis underscores the benefits and challenges associated with data exchange in cross-border regulatory procedures. It emphasizes the need for proper cooperation between customs and competent authorities at the national level, as well as the adoption of technology-neutral approaches.

The study argues for the alignment of customs data models and international guidelines to ensure effective regulatory procedures. It also highlights the potential of the Codex and the eFITO solution in achieving these goals.

Arguments

Zambia Revenue Authority is working on building solutions to exchange information between customs administrations in the Southern African region.

Supporting facts:

• Zambia is a land-linked country, highly dependent on its neighboring countries’ support.

• Challenges like undervaluation, misclassification, transit fraud, border congestion etc. are being mitigated by exchanging data between border countries.

Topics: Trade, Customs Administrations, Data Exchange, Information Technology, Southern Africa

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Zambia Revenue Authority leverages WCO’s GNC tools to simplify its process of exchanging information.

Supporting facts:

• GNC concept brought standards that allowed faster implementation of data exchange solutions.

• Zambia developed a data exchange solution with Botswana in a very short span of time after the introduction of GNC concept.

Topics: WCO’s GNC tools, Process Simplification, Data Exchange

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Future plan of Zambia Revenue Authority includes expanding the solution to other neighbouring countries.

Supporting facts:

• The plan is to have solutions with all its neighbours including South Africa.

• They also want to expand to include transits with Botswana.

• Review of the existing data exchange solutions with Tanzania and the DRC is also planned.

Topics: Future Plan, Data Exchange Expansion

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Report

The Zambia Revenue Authority is actively working on developing solutions to facilitate the exchange of information between customs administrations in the Southern Africa region. This effort is aimed at addressing several challenges, including undervaluation, misclassification, transit fraud, and border congestion.

By exchanging data with neighboring countries, Zambia aims to enhance its ability to effectively mitigate these issues. The authority recognizes the value of leveraging the World Customs Organization’s Global Network of Customs (GNC) tools to simplify the process of exchanging information.

These GNC tools provide standards that enable faster and more efficient implementation of data exchange solutions. In line with this, the Zambia Revenue Authority has successfully developed a data exchange solution with Botswana in a relatively short time after the introduction of the GNC concept.

Looking ahead, the future plan of the Zambia Revenue Authority involves expanding the current data exchange solutions to other neighboring countries, such as South Africa. By extending these solutions, Zambia aims to strengthen cooperation and collaboration in the region, fostering improved customs administration practices.

Furthermore, the authority plans to review the existing data exchange solutions with Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, aiming to enhance these connections as well. Overall, the efforts of the Zambia Revenue Authority in developing and expanding data exchange solutions are positive steps towards enhancing trade facilitation, economic growth, and regional cooperation.

By addressing key challenges and leveraging international standards, the authority is establishing a foundation for more efficient customs operations and improved information exchange in the Southern Africa region.

Arguments

The ICC Digital Standards Initiative is working to digitize trade and supply chains

Supporting facts:

• The ICC Digital Standards Initiative is a public-private partnership

• Their work includes engaging the public sector on regulatory and institutional reform and mobilizing the private sector on adoption, implementation, and capacity building

Topics: Digitalization, Supply Chains, Trade

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Importance of legal and regulatory convergence, taxonomy and standards, and capacity building

Supporting facts:

• Legal and regulatory convergence is required to not discriminate between analog and digital

• Standard taxonomies are needed for a common language for business and governments

• Continuous upgrading and improvement of capacity to digitalize is required

Topics: Legal and Regulatory Convergence, Taxonomy and Standards, Capacity Building

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Need to filter most commonly used data elements for efficient data exchange

Supporting facts:

• Current state of key trade documents in terms of digitalization is being surveyed

• Effort to build a global baseline of new data elements and components

• Common language for data exchange in supply chains is required

Topics: Data Exchange, Digital Standards

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Government agencies should overhaul their legislative and legal systems to accommodate electronic transferable records

Supporting facts:

• Many laws are still based on the need for original, paper documents

• Several documents have electronic versions but their use is limited due to non-acceptance at borders

• Adoption of electronic versions is hindered by the absence of explicit laws equating electronic and paper records functionally

Topics: digital trade, electronic commerce, legal reform

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Report

The ICC Digital Standards Initiative is an international collaboration between the public and private sectors, working towards digitising trade and supply chains. This initiative aims to promote the adoption, implementation, and capacity building of digital standards, as well as engage with the public sector on regulatory and institutional reform.

By embracing digitalisation, trade processes can be transformed, leading to increased efficiency and reduced inequalities. Legal and regulatory convergence, along with the development of taxonomy and standards, are crucial in facilitating digitalisation. It is important to ensure that regulations do not discriminate against digital systems, and that legal frameworks are harmonised to accommodate digital trade.

The establishment of standard taxonomies promotes a common language for communication between businesses and governments, streamlining processes. Continuous capacity building is also vital to keep pace with the evolving digital landscape. Surveys are being conducted to assess the current level of digitalisation of key trade documents.

This exploration helps to identify the most commonly used data elements and components, in order to establish a global baseline for efficient data exchange. Establishing a common language for data exchange improves supply chain efficiency. In the context of electronic commerce and digital trade, existing laws based on paper documents pose challenges.

While some electronic versions of documents exist, their usage is limited due to non-acceptance at borders. The absence of explicit laws equating electronic and paper records functionally hinders the wider adoption of electronic versions. Governments should overhaul their legislative and legal systems to accommodate electronic transferable records, removing barriers to digital trade.

The adoption of the United Nations Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records could revolutionise digital trade. With the transformative impact already seen through the adoption of the UN Model Law on Electronic Commerce, extending it to electronic transferable records would provide a clear legal framework, promoting global acceptance and harmonisation.

In summary, the ICC Digital Standards Initiative is driving the digitalisation of trade and supply chains. Through regulatory reform and capacity building, they aim to create a more efficient and effective digital trade ecosystem. Legal and regulatory convergence, taxonomy and standards, and the adoption of international model laws like the United Nations Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records are fundamental in achieving this digital transformation.

Arguments

Use of WCO (World Customs Organization) data model to streamline the flow of goods and flow of information

Supporting facts:

• Using the WCO data model, customs can exchange information seamlessly, regardless of the technology being used

• It is referred to as a customs IT language or dictionary of digital customs data

• Different layers exist within the model that cater to a range of specific processes and document requirements

Topics: Trade, Digitalization, Supply Chain

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Globally Networked Customs (GNC) for efficient exchange of information

Supporting facts:

• GNC is a voluntary agreement of data exchange between two or more members using a standardized approach

• Members use a Utility Block (UB) which is a template to create efficiency in the information exchange process

• GNC allows industrialization of data exchange process, enabling replication of solutions

Topics: Customs, Global Cooperation, Information Exchange

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Single Window Interoperability to facilitate collaboration amongst stakeholders

Supporting facts:

• Aims at integrating different agencies involved in the trade process

• All members have a standard ecosystem where they can interchange information

• The concept can be used for several different scenarios and is easily replicable

Topics: Trade, Stakeholder Collaboration, Digital Transformation

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The WCO continuously cooperates with other international standard-setting organizations responsible for establishing international instruments related to cross-border procedures to support their digitalization initiatives.

Supporting facts:

• Collaboration of WCO with Codex in developing a data model-compliant dataset for official certificates.

• Workshops were organized under WCO aimed to facilitate the creation of interoperable, efficient, consistent and cost-effective data exchange solutions between countries.

Topics: WCO, Digitalization Initiatives, Cross-Border Procedures

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The single window environment to collaborate between different agencies for data capture

Supporting facts:

• Veterinary or food safety certificate information should be shared with customs and competent authorities

• Single window environment aims for collaboration, not just passing the tasks around

Topics: Data exchange, Inter-agency cooperation

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Different approaches to achieve interoperability and interconnectivity are possible, including the eFIDO hub and direct information exchange between single windows.

Supporting facts:

• eFIDO hub enables countries to exchange information. However, all countries are not using the hub.

Topics: interoperability, interconnectivity, eFIDO

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Report

During the discussion, the speakers emphasised the significance of the World Customs Organization (WCO) data model in streamlining the movement of goods and information. The WCO data model acts as a customs IT language or dictionary of digital customs data.

It allows customs departments to exchange information seamlessly, regardless of the technology being used. The model consists of various layers catering to specific processes and document requirements, enhancing efficiency in customs operations. This approach greatly contributes to the goal of SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

Another key topic discussed was the Globally Networked Customs (GNC) agreement, which enables efficient exchange of information between multiple customs members. GNC is based on a standardized approach, known as the Utility Block (UB), which facilitates the exchange of data.

The UB serves as a template that promotes efficiency and consistency in the information exchange process. By implementing the GNC agreement, countries can industrialize their data exchange process, leading to the replication of successful solutions. This initiative aligns with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

The speakers also highlighted the concept of Single Window Interoperability, which aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders involved in trade processes. This approach integrates different agencies, allowing for the seamless interchange of information. Implementing a standard ecosystem enhances communication and improves efficiency in trade-related operations.

Additionally, the Single Window Interoperability concept is highly adaptable and can be replicated across various scenarios. This initiative is in line with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Furthermore, the discussion mentioned the collaborative efforts of the WCO with other international standard-setting organizations to support digitalization initiatives for cross-border procedures.

The workshops organized by the WCO aimed to develop interoperable, efficient, consistent, and cost-effective data exchange solutions between countries. This cooperation contributes to the attainment of SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Additionally, one of the speakers, Juan Diego Chavarria, showed support for the digitalization efforts of cross-border regulatory procedures.

He acknowledged the benefits of implementing standardized tools and guidelines introduced by the WCO. These tools have facilitated the development of data exchange solutions between Zambia and its neighboring countries. Key benefits include accelerated processing time, reduced cases of undervaluation and misclassification, and access to advanced information for risk assessment.

The discussion also emphasized the importance of an inclusive work environment between different agencies for efficient data handling. Eric’s viewpoint on the significance of inter-agency cooperation was agreed upon, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in data exchange. In terms of achieving interoperability and interconnectivity, the discussion mentioned the eFIDO hub as one approach among several possibilities.

The eFIDO hub enables countries to exchange information seamlessly. However, it is worth noting that not all countries are currently utilizing the hub. The speakers expressed openness to exploring alternative solutions beyond the eFIDO hub to accommodate various legal requirements and preferences of different countries.

In conclusion, the speakers emphasized the importance of the WCO data model, the GNC agreement, Single Window Interoperability, and collaboration with international organizations for the digitalization of cross-border procedures. They stressed the benefits of standardization, inclusivity, and exploring different approaches to achieve interoperability and efficient data exchange.

These initiatives align with multiple SDGs, including SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.