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U-Freight welcomes e-commerce blueprint
[ July 23, 2018 // Chris ]The U-Freight Group (UFL) says it welcomes the World Customs Organization (WCO) new guiding principles for cross-border e-commerce aimed at developing common standards and tools for customs clearance and data harmonisation.
The Framework of Standards on Cross-Border E-Commerce – as adopted at the end of June 2018 by the WCO Council, was published in mid-July.
Building upon the key principles laid down in the Luxor Resolution adopted in December 2017, the Framework sets out baseline global standards on cross-border e-commerce which U-Freight believes will help shape the sector.
UFL chief executive Simon Wong said the “exponential growth” of e-commerce and the increased role of consumers in individual transactions pose several challenges to governments and businesses like, whether in terms of trade facilitation, safety/security or the collection of duties and taxes. At U-Freight, in our development of e-commerce logistics solutions, we are continually Service Provider.”
WCO said the new Framework of Standards “contains 15 standards that are concise, progressive and focused on the e-commerce environment, with a view to providing pragmatic, fair, and innovative solutions whilst taking into account the diverse expectations and concerns of Customs administrations and stakeholders”.
These cover the legal framework for advanced electronic data; use of international standards; risk management for facilitation and control; non-intrusive inspection technologies and data analytics; simplified clearance procedures; expanding the concept of Authorised Economic Operator to cross-border e-commerce; and models of revenue collection.
They also cover de minimis; prevention of fraud and illicit trade; inter-agency cooperation and information sharing; public-private partnerships; international cooperation; communication, public awareness and outreach; mechanism of measurement; and exploring technological developments and innovation.
The WCO said it will also support its members with five regional workshops planned for 2018/2019.