Promoting Good Governance in Customs: Lessons Learned from the Caucasus

Recently, all three countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia) concluded ENP Action Plans with the European Union that among other issues, include commitments in customs reform and, more broadly, in the framework of regional co-operation. For example, the ENP Action Plans call for the adoption and implementation of implementing provisions to simplify and streamline customs procedures, the development of customs ethics in line with EU and international standards, and increasing transparency of customs rules and tariffs.

The goal of this conference will be to identify issues of mutual concern in the area of customs procedure and to develop recommendations for improving procedures that can facilitate enhanced trade and transportation in the South Caucasus. In addition, the identified topics and resulting recommendations will also be used to inform the agenda of the October 2007 Dushanbe Conference.

The conference will bring together 60 customs officials, international experts, and business representatives from Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia to share their experiences and to elaborate recommendations for improved governance in customs.