FACILITATING INTRA-OIC TRADE:
Improving the Efficiency of the Customs Procedures in the OIC Member States
91
In the long run, skilled human resources needs of the Customs Administrations
shall be sourced from specialized universities or technical schools. Some of the
Member States have Customs Departments or Customs Colleges in universities.
Such kind of departments can be established or masters programmes may be
organized which will focus on the modern customs procedures.
 Financing : Most of the critical factor for implementing the customs reforms is
the financing for many developing countries and the LDCs. The cost of such
reforms depends on the results of the needs assessment and the contents of the
reform. In accordance with the second section of the WTO Trade Facilitation
Agreement, developing countries and the LDCs, including the WTO Member
OIC Countries will be able to get support for capacity building from developed
countries and relevant international institutions in implementing their Category
C commitments. In this context, the concerned Member States may categorize
their commitments in order to ensure assistance.
International institutions especially Multilateral Development Banks are
providing financing in the form of credit for customs reforms. Member States
which require financing may approach to these institutions for their possible
contribution. Lastly, PPP projects may be developed for financing some parts of
the reforms such as upgrading the infrastructure in customs stations.
5. Monitoring the Implementation
The Customs Administrations shall monitor the reforms regularly to measure its impact
as well as possible problems to be faced during the implementation phase. Consultations
with the customs officials, other relevant government agencies and the private sector
shall also be included in the monitoring process. Possible problems can be removed
with additional measures. In this context, customs administrations may receive technical
assistance from other countries and relevant international institutions
6. International Cooperation:
International cooperation is one of the most important factors for increasing the
efficiency of the customs procedures. Acceding to international conventions,
exchanging knowledge and experience with the partner countries, cooperation projects
such as joint border posts, adjusting customs procedures and working hours are some of
the forms of international cooperation.