WCO INTERNATIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY TASK FORCE MAKES PROGRESS

WCO INTERNATIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY TASK FORCE MAKES PROGRESS    A World Customs Organization task force to develop international guidelines to help countries and trade better protect the global supply chain against terrorist infiltration continues to make progress.
   The task force, which was established by the Brussels-based organization’s 161 customs administrations in June, concluded its second meeting late last week in Brussels. The meeting covered:
   * Progress to standardize data required to promote risk management processes.
   * Progress to devise a new international instrument on assistance between customs administrations, which comprises the exchange of advance information, as well as a model legal framework for bilateral mutual administrative assistance.
   * Possible guidelines for cooperation between customs and industry.
   * 'Capacity building” needs for customs administrations in developing countries, which will require investments in cargo-scanning technology and other related systems.
   The task force comprises senior-level customs officers from around the world, representatives of intergovernmental organizations, and shipping industry executives.
   The task force’s work will be used to create the so-called “Resolution on Security and Facilitation of the International Supply Chain,” due for completion by June 2003.
   Michel Danet, secretary general of the WCO, told the task force that the need for the resolution has been compounded by “the fear that any nation could be the target of terrorism” and that the international supply chain remains “vulnerable” to use as a delivery mechanism for terrorist weapons of mass destruction.
   Danet also pointed out to the task force that recent actions taken by the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders to tighten trade-related security in the region should be studied and possibly applied to other regions, such as South America and Africa.
   The next task force meeting will be held in Brussels in February. Work will also continue through various specialist sub-groups during the intersession, the WCO said.
   For more information about the WCO task force and its work, access the November issue of American Shipper (pages 8-10), or online at https://www.AmericanShipper.com.