27 January 2010
Fiji accedes to the Revised Kyoto Convention
On 26 January 2010, the Ambassador of the Republic of the Fiji Islands deposited his country’s 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.
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”.
It is recognized as a major trade facilitation instrument. Some of its 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 Convention now has 66 Contracting Parties.