A Sub-regional Workshop for ASEAN Member countries on the Harmonized System (HS) and Advance Rulings for the classification of goods was held at the WCO Regional Training Centre in Bangkok, Thailand, from 18 to 22 August 2025.  The Workshop was organised by the Thai Customs Department in cooperation with the WCO and the ROCB Asia-Pacific, and was facilitated by experts from the WCO Secretariat and Japan Customs.  Their participation was funded by the CCF Japan.

The Workshop brought together 22 officials from Customs administrations of Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam, all of whom are engaged in tariff classification-related work.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Niti Wityatem, Deputy Director-General of Thai Customs, underlined the critical role of HS classification in international trade, emphasizing that advance rulings enhance predictability and certainty for traders. He stressed the importance of strengthening Customs officers’ capacity in these areas to promote trade facilitation and regulatory efficiency across the ASEAN region. He also expressed his appreciation to the WCO and Japan Customs for their continuous support to ASEAN Member countries in this technical domain.

During the Workshop, participants from Thailand and Viet Nam presented their respective HS classification models and advance ruling systems, while Indonesia delivered a presentation on its preparatory plans for the implementation of HS 2028 in the ASEAN region. These presentations provided an opportunity for participants to share experiences, exchange views on common challenges, and explore possible solutions related to HS classification, advance ruling processes, and the upcoming HS 2028 implementation.

The main objectives of the Workshop were to ensure uniform interpretation and application of the HS and to enhance institutional capacity for efficient tariff classification, including through the effective use of advance rulings. The program also explored WCO tools and instruments that support HS classification and provided an overview of the anticipated key changes in the HS 2028 amendments.

Participants engaged in practical exercises involving case studies on tariff classification across various sectors, including agricultural products, plastics, rubber, textiles, machinery, electrical equipment, and vehicles.

At the conclusion of the Workshop, all participants expressed their appreciation to the WCO and Japan Customs for their valuable support in strengthening capacity on HS-related matters and beyond.