OSCE conducts seminar on simplifying international trade procedures in Kazakhstan

ALMATY, 2 September 2015 - An OSCE-supported three-day workshop on practical aspects of trade procedures and the function of customs authorities began today in Almaty.

Some 50 officials from the State Revenue Committee’s regional offices, representatives of the business community  and experts from Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, the Russian Federation, the World Bank and the Eurasian Economic Commission are taking part in the event.

Participants will discuss simplifying customs clearance procedures and topics such as the World Trade Organization’s framework standards, the development of joint mechanisms for eliminating administrative barriers and ensuring secure delivery chains for successful international trade.  Particular attention will be paid to the introduction of modern IT technology in order to harmonize customs administration and replicate the best international practices.

Erzhan Abdrakhmanov, Director at the Customs Control Organization Division of the State Revenue Committee under the Ministry of Finance, said: “Current business conditions require the authorities of the State Revenue Committee introduce new methods of customs control. It should be noted that accession to the World Trade Organization will require us to provide competent and professional administration.” He added that the seminar is a step in the direction of learning about the experience of foreign countries and the use of best practices in Kazakhstan.

Rati Japaridze, Economic and Environmental Officer at the OSCE Programme Office in Astana said: “The need to update customs control methods becomes even more obvious in view of Kazakhstan’s accession to the World Trade Organization.” He noted that the enhanced efficiency of customs procedures and trade facilitation at all levels would help increase the foreign trade turnover in the region.

The workshop is organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana jointly with the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ).It is part of the Programme Office’s multi-year efforts to assist the host country in promoting good governance and facilitating trade in the region.