NAN-H-30
Collaboration
By Adekunle Williams/Solomon Asowata
Lagos, Jan. 25, 2017 (NAN) The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) have embarked on a strategic collaboration to boost global adoption of cargo messaging standards.
Mr Alexandre de Juniac, Director General of IATA, made the announcement in a statement obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Wednesday.
The statement said IATA’s Cargo-XML messaging standard had been fully integrated into ASYCUDAWorld, the UNCTAD automated customs management system used by 90 countries worldwide for their customs procedures.
It said: “The integration of Cargo-XML in ASYCUDAWorld standardises the electronic communications between airlines and customs authorities using the programme.
“The new data standard reduces message duplication and simplifies communication across the supply chain, facilitating trade growth and improving cargo security.
“It also modernises customs operations and fosters participation in global commerce through advance electronic data submission for air cargo shipments.”
According to the statement, Cargo-XML makes it easier for airlines, freight forwarders and shippers to ensure that the information being provided to the customs authorities is technically correct.
The statement said this was in line with the standards of industry bodies such as the World Customs Organisation (WCO) and regulators.
“It also facilitates custom risk assessments for air cargo shipments and improves compliance with security regulations.
“Having a standard air cargo digital messaging system between customs authorities, airlines and other air cargo stakeholders is fundamental to enhancing efficiency, driving trade growth and maximising safety and security across the industry.
“IATA’s successful partnership with UNCTAD means that airlines, freight-forwarders, shippers and border agencies in over 90 countries can now talk the same digital language.
“It takes the industry one step closer to achieving the global adoption of a standard air cargo messaging system,” Mr Glyn Hughes, IATA Global Head, Cargo, is quoted as saying.
The statement also quoted Mrs Shamika Sirimanne, Director of UNCTAD’s Division on Technology and Logistics, as saying that electronic data interchange was an integral component of customs modernisation programmes.
“We’re delighted to support IATA Cargo-XML standards in the ASYCUDA system, which ultimately will help trade efficiency, improve custom clearance and enhance security through risk assessment procedures,” she said. (NAN)
WAC/ASO/SOA
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Edited by Oluwole Sogunle