On 16 July 2016, at the 127th/128th Sessions of the Customs Co-operation Council, the Secretary General of the WCO Mr. Kunio Mikuriya, in his capacity as the depository of the Convention, took receipt of the instruments of accession of Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures (Revised Kyoto Convention).
Having entered into force on 3 February 2006, the Revised Kyoto Convention is a WCO legal instrument acceded by several countries as way to further promote legitimate trade and effective controls. It is regarded by the entire international Customs Community as a key blueprint for modern Customs in 21st Century, which complements countries’ efforts for ratification of the World Trade Organization Agreement on Trade Facilitation.
Amongst others, the Convention’s key elements include the application of simplified Customs procedures in a predictable and transparent environment, the optimal 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.
The WCO Secretary General welcomed the accession of Lao People’s Democratic Republic, 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 Convention as soon as possible.
The Convention now has 104 Contracting Parties, and it will enter into force for Lao People’s Democratic Republic on 16 October 2016.