WCO Trains NCS Officers on Advance Ruling, Harmonized System, Rules of Origin

World Customs Organization in collaboration with the European Union (EU), Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, and GIZ, launched a series of capacity-building programs to enhance the capabilities of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). These initiatives aim to improve the implementation of Advance Ruling, a trade facilitation measure designed to bring certainty and transparency to Nigeria’s customs operations by providing legally binding decisions ahead of transactions.

The training program, held from May 20 to May 31, 2024, at the NCS Headquarters, focused on critical customs procedures such as Tariff Classification, Rules of Origin (RoO), and Customs Valuation. Supported by the EU-WCO Harmonized System (HS) and Rules of Origin for Africa Programmes.

The capacity building, which is divided into three stages: Intermediate, Advanced, and Training-of-Trainers (ToT), is to ensure a thorough and progressive enhancement of skills among NCS officers. The final ToT session is scheduled for July 2024.

NCS officers have received training in tariff classification, concentrating on complex products like textiles, chemicals, and plastics, which are essential for accurate and efficient customs operations.

In the same vein, the NCS conducted a soft launch and stakeholder consultation for the Advance Ruling System On May 2, 2024, paving the way for its full implementation. A comprehensive sensitisation program, in collaboration with the WCO and GIZ, is set to begin in July 2024 to educate stakeholders and ensure widespread understanding and adoption of the new system.

Furthermore, the WCO has supported the development of Standard Operational Procedures (SOPs) to guide the implementation of Advance Rulings, providing detailed guidelines on handling HS and RoO.

The capacity-building efforts by the WCO and its partners have been pivotal in preparing the NCS to implement Advance Rulings by enhancing the skills and knowledge of customs officers. This initiative aims to create a more efficient and transparent customs environment in Nigeria, aligning with international standards and fostering greater trust and cooperation in global trade.