The Embassy of the Republic of Iceland in Brussels deposited the country’s instrument of accession to the International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures (Revised Kyoto Convention - RKC) on 08 October 2015.

The RKC is the international standard for making Customs regulatory procedures as efficient and effective as possible. 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 103 Contracting Parties, after the accession of Iceland.

The WCO Secretary General, Mr. Kunio Mikuriya, welcomed the accession of Iceland, since this demonstrates the country’s commitment to implementing Customs procedures adapted to the international trade environment and efforts towards trade facilitation.

The Secretary General strongly encourages other WCO Members to accede to the RKC as soon as possible.

The RKC will enter into force for Iceland on 8 January 2016.