The WTO is stepping up its efforts to facilitate trade: 25 new proposals to streamline global customs

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International logistics

The WTO's Trade Facilitation Committee is moving forward with the second review of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), with a record 25 proposals to improve customs efficiency and technical support to developing countries.

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The Trade Facilitation Committee of the Organización Mundial del Comercio (OMC) is making steady progress in the second review of Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA)This initiative is key to expediting the movement, release, and customs clearance of goods globally. At its latest meeting, 17 new proposals were presented, bringing the total to 25—almost double the number received during the first review in 2021.

This agreement is the first in the history of the OMC in which developing countries and least developed countries (LDCs) can determine their own implementation timelines, aligned with their national capacities and priorities. The key to its success lies in support through technical assistance and capacity building (TAC).

The second review of the TFA doubles the proposals to optimize global trade

The 25 proposals submitted in this second phase of review cover a wide range of improvements. The members of the OMC They have put forward ideas to foster more efficient implementation practices, address challenges in managing technical support, and improve the exchange of experiences and information within the Committee itself. Given the synergy among many of the suggestions, the Secretariat of the OMC It will group the proposals by topic to structure and facilitate the upcoming informal discussions.

Implementation status: 89% of commitments are already underway

The Secretariat's report reveals a positive outlook, with a overall implementation commitment rate of 89%It highlights that 23 members have implemented around 160 measures ahead of schedule. However, the focus is now shifting towards the "Category C" measuresThese are the measures that developing countries and LDCs have committed to implementing after a transition period and with the necessary technical assistance. It is anticipated that approximately one-third of these critical measures for the global supply chain will be implemented between 2026 and 2030. In parallel, the Secretariat announced a technical update to the AFC database to improve its usability.

Key findings from the review of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (OMC.

Concept	Relevant Figure/Data
Global rate of application commitments	89 %
Proposals submitted in the 2nd review	25 (almost double that of the 1st review)
Measures put forward by 23 members	~ 160
Implementation timeframe for Category C measures	2026 - 2030
Next formal meeting of the Committee	October 20-22, 2026

Strategic initiatives: Transit corridors and vulnerable economies in focus

One session was specifically dedicated to the transit of goods, a fundamental pillar of foreign trade. Analyses were presented on measuring the performance of trade corridors, ongoing reforms in Africa, and international standards for digital connectivity. In this context, MongoliaOn behalf of the Landlocked Developing Countries (LDDC) group, he presented a conceptual proposal to create a "Transit Corridor Observatory"...an online platform for consolidating factual information. Meanwhile, Guatemala, representing the Small Vulnerable Economies (SVE) group, secured an agreement to hold a session dedicated to the specific needs of this group, in line with the Ministerial Decision of the 14th Ministerial Conference.

Analysis of customs cases and procedures under review

The meeting also served as a platform for the exchange of best practices and the analysis of specific procedures. China It outlined its voluntary reporting system, which incentivizes companies to self-report customs violations in exchange for reduced or no penalties. In turn, the Reino Unido and UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) presented the latter's latest report on the functioning and challenges of national trade facilitation committees. The discussions also included an analysis of customs procedures for intangible goods in Indonesia and the reward systems for customs officials in Indonesia, Sri Lanka y Tailandiaa topic raised by Estados Unidos.

The key role of technical assistance and financing

The Trade Facilitation Agreement Mechanism (TFAM) updated its members on its work. TFAF (for its acronym in English) presented its findings on the mobilization of technical assistance and the progress of ongoing projects in countries such as Angola, Kenia, the República Kirguisa, Madagascar, Myanmar, Níger, San Vicente y las Granadinas y Sri LankaSeveral delegations underlined the critical role of this assistance for the full implementation of the AFC and requested continued funding for the Mechanism.

Key points and frequently asked questions about the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA)

How does the AFC affect a Spanish exporting company?

The Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) directly impacts the bottom line of Spanish exporters by reducing the time and costs associated with customs procedures. By harmonizing and simplifying procedures in destination countries, especially in emerging markets, non-tariff barriers are minimized, the clearance of goods is expedited, and predictability in the supply chain is increased, resulting in greater competitiveness.

What are "Category C" measures and why are they important for global business?

The "Category C" measures are commitments under the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) that developing and least developed countries (LDCs) will implement after receiving technical and financial assistance. They are crucial because these countries represent the weakest links in the global logistics chain. Their proper implementation ensures that ports and customs in these countries do not become bottlenecks, guaranteeing a more stable and efficient flow of goods for businesses operating within them.

What are the consequences for Spain of the proposed "Transit Corridor Observatory"?

For Spanish logistics and transport companies with international operations, a "Transit Corridor Observatory" would be an invaluable strategic tool. It would provide objective and up-to-date data on performance, costs, and potential disruptions on key routes, especially those crossing landlocked countries. This would allow for better route planning, more precise risk management, and optimized delivery times.