EAC secretariat to begin digitising imported goods tariffs

Workers at the Export Processing Zone in Athi River, Kenya. A digitised Common External Tariffs will contain searchable functionalities by tariff code or generic product description with data extraction for statistical purposes as required by importers and exporters. PHOTO | FILE | NMG

By THE CITIZEN

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The East African Community (EAC) secretariat has commenced the process of

digitising its Common External Tariffs (CET).

The programme, being implemented with the support of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), is meant to enhance the private sector’s participation in international trade.

Through the digitisation of the CETs, the business community — exporters and importers — will have access to trade information from the private sector in international trade.

The platform, which is currently under development in partnership with Global Trade Solution (GTS), will enable seamless migration of the EAC CET during the transposition of the Harmonised System (HS).

It will provide information on the administration and management of the Duty Remission Scheme, the production of information and publication of other measures affecting the implementation of CET.

The platform will also include management of preferential tariff treatment on originating goods imported from Regional Economic Communities (RECs) where EAC partner states are members.