Imagine millions of cross-border e-commerce packages traversing international boundaries daily, carrying goods from every corner of the world to consumers' doorsteps. While this process appears straightforward, it conceals significant challenges: How can we ensure these shipments' safety while preventing illegal goods circulation? How can we streamline customs clearance and delivery to enhance consumer experience without compromising security?
The answer lies in harnessing the power of data.
WCO's Strategic Focus: Data Standardization and Information Sharing
The World Customs Organization (WCO), as the global authority in customs matters, recognizes data's pivotal role in building secure and efficient cross-border e-commerce ecosystems. Recently, the WCO Data Model Project Team (DMPT) convened a crucial meeting at Brussels headquarters, reaffirming data's central position in shaping the future of international e-commerce.
2018 WCO Theme: Secure Business Environment and Data Model Advancements
WCO Deputy Director General Luc De Blieck announced the 2018 International Customs Day theme: "Creating a Secure Business Environment for Economic Development." This theme reflects WCO's strategic response to global economic trends, with digital transformation at its core.
The WCO Data Model (DM) continues to help customs administrations:
- Simplify regulatory procedures and data requirements
- Facilitate trade and travel processes
- Enable digital collaboration among stakeholders
WCO Data Model 3.7.0: Key Enhancements
The DMPT welcomed the new WCO DM 3.7.0 version featuring several improvements:
- Simplified MIP generation: Replaced XML with spreadsheet formats for My Information Packages
- Enhanced model structure presentation: Transitioned from Word to spreadsheets for Base and Derived Information Packages
- Data maintenance mechanism updates: Ensured model accuracy and relevance
2018 Organizational Priorities and Structural Adjustments
The DMPT established four focus groups to execute its 2018 agenda:
- Business Process Modeling
- Data Modeling
- Implementation Support
- IMO FAL Revision
Data Maintenance Contributions
Brazil, China, and the Netherlands submitted Data Maintenance Requests (DMRs) that were approved for incorporation into future WCO DM versions, demonstrating global collaboration in model refinement.
Standardizing E-Commerce Data for Enhanced Risk Management
A joint session of modeling groups explored innovative approaches for direct transmission of advanced e-commerce data (order, payment, and logistics information) to customs administrations. This standardization initiative aims to:
- Improve risk assessment capabilities
- Accelerate clearance processes
- Reduce compliance costs for businesses
Emerging Technologies and Future Directions
The WCO continues to develop frameworks for:
- API Data Models: Supporting air passenger information exchange
- Trader Identification Numbers (TIN): Enhancing Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) mutual recognition
- IMO FAL Revisions: Optimizing maritime transport facilitation
As the organization advances its data consistency framework and develops non-technical user guides, it reinforces the foundation for a digitally-driven future in global trade.