USTR Shares Customs Facilitation Proposals in Kenya Trade Talks

A summary of U.S. proposed text for a customs facilitation language in the Kenya-U.S. Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership says it is asking Kenya to publish all international trade information online, and to answer questions about trade without charging for the contact. It asks Kenya to maintain uniform procedures on advance rulings, and to provide appeals for customs administration issues. It asks Kenya to adopt a single window system for electronic forms and supporting documents, and to allow for immediate release of goods prior to a final determination of duties through customs bonds, and to accept electronic payment of duties.

The U.S. is asking Kenya to offer a less formal entry process for express shipments. It also proposes that Kenyan customs authorities and CBP enhance cooperation on customs offenses.