Workshop on Customs Issues along TRACECA routes organized by the Permanent Secretariat of the IGC TRACECA on capacity building in the field of Single Window and Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs) was held on 2 July 2024 via videoconferencing

The main objective of the workshop was to discuss relevant issues in customs, in particular in the field of Single Window and Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs), and to develop constructive solutions through exchange of opinions and experience.

Within the framework of the first session of the workshop, the agenda covered discussions on Single Window Facilities and simplification of border crossing procedures. Mr. Juan Diego Chavarria Valverde, Technical Officer, WCO, Mr. Roberto Alonghi (EU DG MOVE) and Mr. Marco Marsili (EU DG TAXUD), Mr. Dennis Pantastico, Consultant and Trade Facilitation Expert (ADB CAREC) and representatives of customs authorities of selected TRACECA countries made presentations on this topic, and an open discussion was held on the potential development of the Single Window concept for TRACECA member countries.

The second session of the workshop continued with presentations on the Authorized Economic Operators programmes and mutual recognition by Ms. Lazzat Daniyarova, Technical Officer (WCO), Mr. Igor Runov, Executive Secretary of the International Centre for Transport Diplomacy, Mr. Goran Andreev, Border Crossing Expert of the PS IGC TRACECA and representatives of customs authorities of some TRACECA countries.  This session also concluded with an open discussion on potential plurilateral MRA AEO.

The PS IGC TRACECA works on a regular basis in the field of harmonization and simplification of customs procedures and formalities at border crossings and seaports along the TRACECA routes by providing a platform for Workshop to exchange experiences, discuss ideas and further cooperation.