Enhancing Public Availability of Customs Information
In the Islamic Countries
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business (B2B) transactions. This is an innovative role for a virtual Single Window or trade
portal. An example of this kind of operation is PortNet’s ability to notify value chain participants
of the arrival of merchandise. It even enables private agents to set appointments with each other
and manage time obligations effectively. The logic of PortNet is openness to promote
competitiveness of local businesses, and the collaborative approach behind it results in
continuous upgrading of processes to respond to the needs of users.
Publication of Trade-Related Rules and Procedures
Historically, Morocco published trade-related rules and procedures in hard copy form through
the Official Journal. Although that continues, these documents are also available online. The
combination of PortNet and TradeSense is designed to provide comprehensive coverage of the
legal environment covering trade transactions in Morocco. The systems also make forms and
documents available, and PortNet, which functions as a virtual Single Window, allows for filing
and processing of trade-related documents online, along with the making of necessary
payments.
Means of Publication
As noted above, Morocco historically used its Official Journal to publish Customs and trade-
related laws and regulations. That process continues, but the material is also published online.
The twin platforms of PortNet and TradeSense will ensure that all relevant material is available
online, from rules and regulations to forms and procedures.
Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)
As discussed above, Morocco is very advanced in the use of ICTs to promote public availability
of Customs and trade information. PortNet was developed in partnership with international
organizations like the World Bank and the African Development Bank, as well as the Global
Alliance on Trade Facilitation. As a result, it is a true virtual Single Window: an online portal
where all relevant documents for trade transactions can be found, filled in, and filed, and
necessary payments can be made.
In addition to PortNet, the new TradeSense portal, developed with the support of the World
Bank’s programon TIPs, will ensure complete coverage of the field of Customs and trade-related
rules and regulations, as well as forms and procedures. Information will be easily accessible to
the trade community, from exporters and importers, to others involved in trade transactions.
The combination of online information availability and a virtual single window means that
Morocco is approaching global best practice in terms of the use of ICTs within trade.
Use of Inquiry Points, Call Centers, and Information Centers
Moroccan Customs maintains a website, but as of writing (November 2018) it was offline due to
an error. However, US trade authorities maintain a list of contact points within Moroccan
Customs for the use of American exporters, with the list in public access so traders of other
nationalities can also use it. In addition, PortNet maintains a contact point for registered users,
and has a help function.
Trade Portal: Structure and Operation
PortNet
The PortNet interface contains comprehensive information for import and export transactions
in Morocco. The interface itself cannot be reproduced because it uses animations to represent