Support to SADC EPA customs administrations
Article 45
1. The Parties recognise the importance of supporting SADC EPA States’ customs administrations for the implementation of this Chapter, in line with the provisions of Part I, Chapter 2, of this Agreement. 2. The priority areas for support are: (a) the application of modern customs techniques, including: (i) risk management; (ii) post release controls; and (iii) automation of customs procedures; (b) control of customs valuation, classification and rules of origin, including in view of meeting the requirement of Article 39(1)(j) of this Agreement; (c) the facilitation of transit and the enhancement of the efficiency of regional transit arrangements; (d) transparency issues relating to the publication and administration of all trade regulations, as well as relevant fees and formalities; (e) the introduction and implementation of procedures and practices which reflect international instruments and standards applicable in the field of customs and trade, inter alia the revised Kyoto Convention on the Simplification and Harmonisation of Customs Procedures and the WCO Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade. 3. The Parties recognise the need for specific needs assessment studies taking into account the situation in each country, using WTO and WCO needs assessment instruments or any other mutually agreed instrument.