Belarus accedes to the WCO Revised Kyoto Convention

17 January 2011

Press Release

On 10 January 2011, the Mission of the Republic of Belarus to the European Union deposited Belarus’ instrument of accession to the International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures (revised Kyoto Convention) with the World Customs Organization.

The Convention is regarded as a blueprint for effective and modern Customs procedures, and will enter into force in Belarus on 10 April 2011.

WCO Secretary General, Kunio Mikuriya said, “Accessions to this important Customs instrument are beginning to accelerate as more and more Customs administrations recognize its critical role in managing cross-border trade today.”

Some of the Convention’s key elements include the application of simplified Customs procedures in a predictable and transparent environment, the maximum use of information technology, the utilization of risk management, a strong partnership with the trade and other stakeholders, and a readily accessible system of appeals.

Having entered into force on 3 February 2006, the revised Kyoto Convention now has 72 Contracting Parties.