From 24 July to 1 August 2023, the World Customs Organization (WCO) delivered a Sub-Regional Mercator Programme Advisors (MPAs) Accreditation Workshop for Spanish-Speaking Countries of the Americas and the Caribbean (AMS) within the framework of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP).
With the participation of a total of thirteen candidates from Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay and Peru, the main objective of this activity was the expand the pool of WCO Mercator Programme Advisors to support the harmonized implementation of trade facilitation measures globally.
Throughout a 7-day intensive workshop, the candidates were evaluated based on the specified MPA profile using a variety of methods, including simulation exercises, presentations, role-plays, group activities, and plenary discussions. Additionally, they were expected to demonstrate their expertise and strategic utilization of core WCO standards, tools, and instruments, along with the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Moreover, their ability to engage in strategic discussions with senior Customs officials was assessed.
As a result, ten candidates demonstrated their potential, receiving pre-accreditation and will be invited to participate in an in-country mission for further evaluation toward formal accreditation.
For more information, please, contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org.