This report provides an overview of the progress made by the WCO ESA Region – Regional Private Sector Group (RPSG) since its formation at the end of 2018. From the perspective of the ESA-RPSG, key aspects concerning customs and trade related issues being addressed within the region include Customs-to-Customs collaboration, AEO programs, bond guarantees, ease of doing business and the mandate of the region.

This report is the first of its kind. Future reports on the progress of the region will be published quarterly in July, October and January.

A note on the ESA-RPSG:

The ESA-RPSG was formed for the purpose of verifying the implementation, monitoring and assistance of various instruments in the WCO Toolkit that will make trade easier without comprising or imposing a higher risk profile. This will also allow private sector to articulate their challenges in the Regional integration well and possible solutions for addressing the known obstacles, as we need to address them effectively to ensure we create a safe, fair and compliant environment for all. (Special note: Country specific issues are outside the scope the ESA-RPSG)