WCO to Develop Database of Preferential Trade Arrangements and Related Rules of Origin
The World Customs Organization has issued a notice announcing that it is developing a database of preferential trade arrangements (PTAs) and related rules of origin in order to meet the needs of members of the WCO and to provide a useful reference and resource tool to both the trade and Customs organizations.
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(Under U.S. terms, 'PTAs' provide preferential trade treatment and access to developing countries or regions and include such arrangements as the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences, the Caribbean Basin Trade and Partnership Act (CBTPA), the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and the Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA), etc. The WCO may define PTAs differently.)
WCO Seeks Comments to Ensure Database Meets Business Needs
At this stage of the development of the project, the WCO is seeking the views of all interested parties to ensure that the database meets the critical business needs of its users and provides an effective resource for Customs administrations and the trade community to facilitate the management and uptake of preferential rules of origin.
The WCO notes that on the basis of the replies received, additional features may be incorporated into the database.
Participation in Online Questionnaire Requested by February 15, 2008
The WCO invites completion of an online questionnaire on preferential trade arrangements and rules of origin by February 15, 2008 in order to assist it in the development of its database.
Online questionnaire available at http://www.wcoomd.org/forms/default.aspx?fid=88
WCO notice available at http://www.wcoomd.org/files/1.%20Public%20files/PDFandDocuments/Origine/Background%20-%20Origin%20database%20-%20Web%20EN.pdf